If you’re wondering how to bet on World Cup 2026 in Illinois, this guide will explain everything you need to know about soccer betting for beginners. From creating a sportsbook account to placing your first wager and cashing out winnings, I’ll walk you through the whole process, including what you should know to bet on sports legally in the state.
The expanded 48-team tournament from June 11 to July 19, 2026, will offer countless betting opportunities, making this one of the most exciting World Cups yet. Illinois residents can choose from several licensed online sportsbooks regulated by the Illinois Gaming Board.
Illinois World Cup Betting Eligibility Requirements
Before learning how to bet on World Cup markets, it’s important to make sure you’re eligible to place bets legally. There are two mandatory requirements for World Cup betting in Illinois, set by the Illinois Gaming Board. I’ve outlined these below:
- Age Requirement: You must be at least 21 years old to bet on the World Cup or any other sports in the state.
- Location Requirement: You must also be physically located in Illinois to place sports bets.
Creating Your Illinois Sportsbook Account
In the following section, I’ll walk you through soccer betting for beginners, step by step. The first step is to create your betting account at a licensed sportsbook, which typically takes around 10 or 15 minutes.
Required Information and Documents
Licensed Illinois sportsbooks are legally required to verify your age and identity before accepting wagers on any sports. This is a license requirement that every regulated sportsbook must comply with, mainly to prevent fraud, money laundering, and underage gambling.
These are the documents and information you’ll need to provide.
- Full legal name.
- Date of birth.
- Residential address.
- Social security number (usually last 4 digits only).
- Email address.
- Government-issued photo ID.
Illinois sportsbooks also require you to submit a photo of your government ID when creating your account. Take a clear photo in good lighting, showing all four corners to avoid verification delays. Some betting apps also use AI-powered age verification, where you’ll be required to upload a selfie, and the system will estimate your age using facial analysis technology.
If you’re concerned about the security of the information and data you provide, you can rest assured that your information will be encrypted and used strictly for verification purposes, fraud prevention, and regulatory compliance.
Step-by-Step Account Registration Process
The best sportsbooks in Illinois will follow a standardised process for registration and account verification. Below, I’ve included a step-by-step walkthrough of what to expect when you sign up to bet on the 2026 World Cup.
Step 1: Visit the Official Website or Download the App
Choose a licensed sportsbook and initiate the registration process via the official site or app from the App Store or Google Play. Click the “Sign Up” or “Join Now” button, which is usually displayed on the top-right corner.
Step 2: Enter Your Personal Information
Fill in the required fields with your personal information, following the on-screen prompts.
Step 3: Create Your Login Credentials
Next, choose a unique username and create a strong password. Your password should contain at least 12 characters and a mix of letters, numbers, and symbols. Some sportsbooks also create a random username automatically based on your name.
Step 4: Upload Identification Documents
Upload a photo of your government-issued ID, passport, or driver’s license. Here are some quick tips to take a high-quality image and avoid resubmissions:
- Place your document on a dark, flat surface.
- Use good lighting and avoid shadows or glare.
- Make sure all four corners are clearly visible.
- Keep your camera steady so that the photo isn’t blurry.
Step 5: Verify Location
Enable location detection on your device when prompted to allow the sportsbook to verify your location.
Step 6: Accept Terms and Conditions
Before completing your account, remember to review the sportsbook’s terms and conditions, privacy policy, and sportsbook rules. Once you’ve reviewed them, check the relevant box to agree to the terms and confirm your age.
Step 7: Verify Email and Phone
Next, check your email for a verification link and click on it to verify your email address. You’ll also receive a verification code via SMS to confirm your phone number.
Step 8: Wait for Account Approval
Once you’ve completed the registration and uploaded the required documents, you’ll need to wait a few minutes for your account to be approved. The good news is that most accounts are approved within 15 minutes.
Common Registration Issues:
Below, I’ve included some of the most common registration issues that may cause approval delays, and how to fix them.
- Address not verified: Double-check that the address you provided on the registration page matches official records and documents, like utility bills.
- ID not accepted: Retake a photo of the document following the tips I included above and make sure to submit a high-resolution copy.
- SSN mismatch: Verify you entered the correct SSN and your name matches exactly.
- Duplicate account: If you’ve already signed up, you won’t be able to create another account. In this case, simply click ‘Forgot Username’ to reactivate your account.
Setting Up Two-Factor Authentication (Recommended)
Two-factor authentication adds an extra layer of security to your Illinois sportsbook account, protecting your personal information and funds. While it’s not mandatory to set this up, the Illinois Gaming Board strongly recommends taking a few minutes to set it up to keep your account safe if someone discovers your password.
Here’s how to enable it in four easy steps:
- Go to your account settings and click the ‘Security’ tab.
- Select ‘ Enable Two-Factor Authentication’.
- Choose between an authenticator app (like Google Authenticator or Authy) or SMS codes.
- Follow the on-screen prompts to link your phone number or scan the QR code.
Making Your First Deposit
Once you’ve created your Illinois sportsbook account and completed the required verification steps, all you’ll need to do is fund your account to start betting on the World Cup.
Available Deposit Methods in Illinois
Licensed sportsbooks in Illinois offer multiple deposit methods so you can easily fund your account when betting on the World Cup.
The table below lists and compares the most common deposit methods accepted at Illinois sports betting sites.
| Method | Processing Time | Min/Max | Fees | Notes |
| Debit Cards | Instant | $10/$5,000 | None | Visa, Mastercard, Discover |
| Credit Cards | Instant | $10/$2,500 | None* | *Banned in Illinois as of April 2025 |
| PayPal | Instant | $10/$5,000 | None | Must be linked to bank/card |
| Venmo | Instant | $10/$2,500 | None | Available at select sportsbooks |
| Online Banking | Instant – 2 hours | $10/$10,000 | None | Direct bank transfer |
| Play+ Prepaid Card | Instant | $10/$5,000 | None | Sportsbook-branded prepaid card |
| [Cash at Counter] | Instant | $10/$10,000 | None | If retail locations available in Illinois |
It’s important to note that credit card deposits are prohibited as of April 2025. However, there are several deposit options, including debit cards, online banking, and PayPal. Additionally, sportsbooks licensed in Illinois don’t typically charge deposit fees.
Step-by-Step Deposit Process
This section covers how to deposit funds for World Cup betting, explained for first-time bettors. Depositing money into your Illinois sportsbook takes just 3 minutes or less, and you’ll be able to start wagering immediately.
Here’s how the process works:
Step 1: Log in to Your Account
Visit the sportsbook site or open your betting app to log in.
Step 2: Navigate to the Cashier Page
Once you’ve logged in, go to the Cashier page or look for the “Deposit” button. This is usually at the top of the page or in your account menu.
Step 3: Activate Bonus Code (If Applicable)
Next, claim your sign-up offer before making a deposit; once you’ve made your first deposit, you won’t be eligible to claim the welcome offer. If a bonus code is required, copy and paste it in the relevant field when prompted.
Step 4: Select Your Preferred Deposit Method
Choose your preferred payment method from the available options on the cashier page, such as debit cards, PayPal, or bank transfers.
Step 5: Enter the Deposit Amount
Next, choose the amount you want to deposit. The minimum deposit at most Illinois sportsbooks is $10, though this may vary by operator.
Step 6: Fill in Payment Details
If you choose to deposit with a debit card, you’ll need to fill in all the payment details, just like you would when making an online purchase. This includes the 16-digit card number, expiration date, CVV code, and the billing zip code.
For PayPal or Venmo deposits, you’ll just need to log in to your account and confirm the transaction from the payment app. If you want to make a deposit via online banking, select your bank from the dropdown menu, log in through your bank’s online banking portal, and authorize the transaction.
Step 7: Review and Confirm
Before confirming the deposit, double-check that the deposit amount is correct and make sure you entered the bonus code (if required). Review the terms and conditions, if you haven’t done so already, and click “Submit”.
Step 8: Verify Funds Availability
When you’ve confirmed your deposit, refresh the page to check your balance. You should see the funds you’ve deposited within seconds. If you’ve claimed a bonus bet, these funds will appear separately in your “Bonus Balance”.
Setting Deposit Limits (Recommended)
When your sportsbook account is set up, it’s a good idea to set deposit limits and other responsible gambling limits before you start depositing. You can also do this at a later stage, but it’s strongly recommended to set limits on your account right away to ensure responsible World Cup betting.
You can set deposit limits on a daily, weekly, or monthly basis based on your budget and what you can afford to bet with. You can also increase your limits for World Cup betting if you can afford to bet a bit more, though it’s important to note that you’ll need to wait 24 hours to increase your deposit limit.
Licensed Illinois sportsbooks make it easy to set up responsible gambling limits. You can find these setting in your account, or visit your sportsbook’s responsible gambling page to find all the information about these tools.
Navigating to World Cup Betting Markets
This part of my World Cup betting guide will explain the typical markets you’ll find at sportsbook sites and betting apps in Illinois. Markets may vary slightly between operators, and the interface will also look different, so it’s important to know what you’re looking for and how to navigate through the betting menu.
Finding World Cup Markets in Your Sportsbook App
If you want to learn how to bet on the World Cup, there are three easy methods for navigating betting markets. Once you understand the organizational structure of your Illinois sportsbook app or site, locating the markets you want to bet on is straightforward.
Method 1: Browse by Sport
The most common and easiest navigation method is to browse by sport, select “Soccer” then choose the market you want to bet on.
Method 2: Use Search Function
Most Illinois sportsbooks that offer World Cup betting also offer a search function, so you can type “World Cup” to find available markets right away.
Method 3: Featured Section
Once the tournament starts on June 11, 2026, World Cup betting markets will be prominently featured on the homepage. You’ll easily find World Cup banners, featured matches to bet on, and relevant promotions or boosted odds as soon as you log in, making it really easy to access these soccer markets.
Market Organization Within the World Cup Section
Once you’re in the World Cup betting sections, markets are typically organized by bet types, as described below:
- Futures/Outrights: This is where you can place a wager on the tournament winner, Golden Boot, or group winners. These markets are available year-round, even before the tournament begins.
- Upcoming Matches: Scheduled matches will appear in this section, typically for the rest of the week.
- Today’s Matches: During the tournament, the matches scheduled for that day will be displayed here.
- Live Now: This is where you can bet on in-play matches, sometimes up to the last few minutes of the game.
- By Round: Betting markets for the Group Stage, Round of 32, Round of 16, Quarterfinals, Semifinals, and the Final are grouped in this category.
- By Group: This is where you can find all the betting markets for Groups A to L, such as the winner or runner-up of Group B.
For every category in the World Cup betting section, sportsbooks usually display match cards showing the two teams with their name and flag, and the date and time of kick-off. At the bottom of the card, you’ll usually find the three-way betting options (Win/Draw/Win). Click the ‘More Markets’ tab to view the full betting options for that match.
Understanding Market Organization and Filters
You’ll find several filters to help you find specific markets and navigate over 100 markets per match without wasting too much time. These are the most common filters and shortcuts:
- Popular or Featured
- All Markets
- Player Props
- Game Props
- Same Game Parlay
Accessing Full Match Details:
Use the available filters on the World Cup betting section to avoid scrolling through dozens of markets, especially if you want to wager on common bets like totals or player props.
To access the full match details for any fixture you want to bet on, click on the match card on the odds page to find markets, team statistics, lineups, and real-time updates.
Understanding World Cup Betting Odds
Before learning how to bet on soccer games, you’ll need to understand how to read odds and calculate your potential payouts to make informed decisions. In this section, I’ll quickly explain how to read soccer odds in the standard American format used by Illinois sportsbooks.
Reading American Odds Format (+/-)
American odds use positive (+) and (-) signs preceding a number to indicate the odds for each team or outcome you can bet on. This is the standard format used by all Illinois sportsbooks.
In a nutshell, American odds indicate two things:
- Which outcome is the favorite (-) and which is the underdog (+).
- How much you’ll win relative to your stake.
Positive Odds: The Underdogs
The easiest way to identify the underdog is to look for the positive sign. Positive odds show you how much profit you win for a $100 bet.
For example:
- If you bet $100 on Brazil with odds of +750, you get a return of $750, meaning a $650 profit.
- If you bet $100 on Spain with odds of +400, your return will be $400, meaning a $300 profit.
Remember: The higher the positive number, the less likely the outcome. So, using the example above, Brazil is less likely to win than Spain.
Negative Odds: The Favorites
The negative number indicates the favorite, while the number shows you how much you must bet to win $100.
Let’s look at some examples:
- If Denmark has odds of -150, you must bet $150 to make a $100 profit (with a $250 return).
- If Mexico has odds of -130, you must bet $130 to make a $100 profit (with a total return of $230).
Remember: The higher the negative number, the stronger the favorite, which means you’re risking more to make a $100 profit.
Sometimes, you might also encounter even odds (+100), which represent 50/50 odds. This is one of the rarer scenarios, typically when two teams are perfectly matched and neither is favored, or in coin-flip scenarios.
Here’s a quick guide to help you interpret odds and estimate the likelihood of outcomes based on the odds:
- -105 to -140: Slight favorites, but either team could win.
- -175 to 250: Clear favorites and expected to win.
- -350 or lower: Heavy favorites and very likely winners in uneven matchups.
- +110 to +220: Slight underdogs in a close matchup, with a small chance of an upset.
- +300 to +700: Underdogs with an unlikely chance of going against the odds.
- +1000 or higher: Clear underdogs that are highly unlikely to win.
Calculating Payouts for Any Bet Amount
Now that you have a better understanding of positive and negative odds, let’s look at how to calculate your potential payout based on your stake.
The formula for calculating payouts with positive odds is as follows:
Profit = (Bet Amount ÷ 100) × Positive Odds
If we apply this formula with a $50 bet, here’s how we’d calculate the payout for a successful bet with odds of $650:
($50 ÷ 100) x 650 = $325
Total return = $375 ($325 + $50 stake)
Profit = $325
If you bet $20 on Brazil, with the same odds, the calculation would be as follows:
($20 ÷ 100) x 650 = $130
Total return = $150 ($130 + $20 stake)
Profit = $130
Now, let’s look at the formula to calculate payouts with negative odds:
Profit = (Bet Amount ÷ Negative Odds) × 100
Let’s take an example with a $10 bet on Spain, with odds of -150:
($10 ÷ 150) x 100 = $6.66
Total return = $16.67 ($6.66 + $10 stake)
Profit = $6.67
If you bet $200 on the same odds, the results would be as follows:
($200 ÷ 150) x 100 = $133.33
Total return = $333.33 ($133.33 + $200 stake)
When reading odds and calculating your potential payout based on your stake, it’s important to make the following distinctions to calculate your profit correctly:
|
Profit |
How much you win, not including your stake |
|
Total Return |
The profit plus your stake |
|
Stake/Wager |
The amount you bet |
Here’s an example breakdown to illustrate these distinctions, using our earlier example of a $20 bet on Brazil at +650, if the bet wins:
- Stake: $20
- Profit: $130
- Total Return:$150
- Loss (if bet loses): $20
While it’s important to understand how to read odds and calculate your payout, it’s best not to calculate profits manually. All Illinois sportsbooks display your potential payout on the betslip as soon as you add a selection. That means you can see what you’d win if your bet is successful, before submitting your bet.
Bet Slip: Reading Your Potential Payout
Before placing your bet, take the time to review your betslip carefully. Your betslip shows important information you’ll need to check before confirming your wager, including:
- Your selection: What you’re betting on (team, player, or market).
- The odds: The current odds at the time of placing the bets. These may change until your submit the betslip.
- Your stake: The amount you’re wagering.
- Your payout if the bet wins: The total return (profit + stake).
- Your profit: Some betting apps display the profit separately, below the total return.
Here’s an example of a typical betslip when betting on the World Cup:
|
Selection |
France to win the World Cup |
|
Odds |
+650 |
|
Stake |
$50 |
|
Total Return |
$375 |
|
Profit |
$325 |
In the betslip above, you’re betting $50 on France to win the World Cup. If they win, you’ll get a total return of $375 and make a profit of $325. If they don’t win, you lose the $50 you wagered.
It’s crucial to note that odds change frequently, especially when wagering on live markets. That means that by the time you add your selection and review the betslip, the odds may have shifted.
Most online sportsbooks offer the following settings for accepting odds changes:
- Accept Any: Bet goes through regardless of changes in the odds.
- Accept Better Odds Only: Bet goes through only if odds improve, and automatically rejects if they worsen. You can then place your bet again if you’re happy with the updated odds.
- Decline All Changes: Bet only goes through at the exact odds you selected.
Basic Implied Probability (What Odds Mean)
Understanding how to bet on World Cup requires a solid understanding of soccer odds and what they mean. I’ve already covered how to read positive and negative odds, so in this section, I’ll provide a quick overview of implied probability and why it matters.
Implied probability converts odds into a percentage that shows the likelihood of a specific outcome. The higher the odds, the lower the implied probability, and vice versa.
For example:
- Odds of +200 indicate a 33% chance
- Odds of -200 indicate a 66.7% chance
- Even odds (+100) indicate a 50% chance
You don’t need to calculate the implied probability before placing a bet, but it’s helpful to understand which outcomes a sportsbook thinks are likely.
Placing Your First World Cup Bet (Step-by-Step)
Now, let’s look at how to bet on soccer step-by-step for different bet types.
Placing a Three-Way Match Bet
Three-way betting is the most common way to bet on the World Cup, and often the easiest way for beginners to get started.
Step 1: Choose a Match
Go to the World Cup section and select the ‘Upcoming Matches’ to find the one you want to bet on. For example, Spain vs. Brazil.
Step 2: Locate Three-Way Market
The three-way market is usually displayed on the match card, as it’s the one most players bet on. You’ll have these three options:
- Team A to Win
- Team B to Win
- Draw
Step 3: Select Your Pick
Next, choose one of the outcomes by tapping/clicking on it. The selection will be added to your betslip, which usually appears on the right side of the page. You’ll see your selection, the current odds, and an empty field to enter your stake.
Step 4: Enter Stake Amount
Enter the amount you want to bet on that selection. Remember that your wager must meet the minimum limit, but most sportsbooks allow you to bet as little as $1. You’ll also find quick stake selections at the bottom of the betslip with the most common bet amounts so you can click/tap for easy betting.
Step 5: Review Bet Details
Double-check your betslip to ensure all the details are correct. Review the odds, your stake, and the potential payout. Remember to read any settlement terms at the bottom.
Step 6: Place Bet
Once you’ve checked all the details, click the “Place Bet,” “Confirm,” or “Submit” button to place the bet.
Step 7: Confirmation
If your bet goes through, you’ll get a message to confirm the wager was successfully placed and the betslip clears.
Placing a World Cup Futures Bet
Betting on World Cup futures, like the tournament winner or the Golden Boot winner, is a bit different because these bets can take weeks or even months to settle.
However, they’re just as easy to place if you follow the steps below:
Step 1: Navigate to Futures Markets
Go to the “Futures,” “Outrights,” or “Tournament Specials” section on your chosen World Cup betting site. You’ll see markets like:
- Tournament winner (World Cup Champion)
- Golden Boot Winner
- Group Winners
- To Reach Semifinals
- To Reach Final
Step 2: Select Futures Market
Choose one of the markets to view the full odds list. For example, if you want to bet on the tournament winner, click on it, and all 48 teams will be listed with their odds.
Step 3: Choose Your Selection
Select the team you want to bet on and click the odds button next to that team to add the selection to your betslip.
Step 4: Enter Stake and Confirm
Next, enter the amount you want to bet in the stake field and review your potential payout. Submit the betslip and your wager will be placed.
With futures betting, your bet amount will be locked until the bet settles on the final, even if odds change throughout the tournament. However, many sportsbooks like BetMGM, FanDuel, and DraftKings offer an early cashout option.
Placing a Player Prop Bet
Player prop bets are interesting to explore when learning how to bet on the World Cup because these focus on individual player performance rather than match results. You can bet on a player to receive a red card or score a goal at any point in the match.
Here’s how to place an anytime goalscorer bet:
Step 1: Navigate to Match and Props
Choose the World Cup match you want to bet on, then look for the “Player Props,” “Goalscorers,” or “Players” tab.
Step 2: Find Goalscorer Market
Then, choose your goal scorer market. Prop types in this category include:
- Anytime Goalscorer: Player to score at any point in 90 minutes.
- First Goalscorer: Player to score the opening goal of the match.
- Last Goalscorer: Player to score the final goal in the match.
Step 3: Select Player
Choose the player you want to bet on from the list and click the odds next to the player’s name.
Step 4: Verify Lineup Status
Before placing your bet, always check the lineup to see if the player is confirmed to start. The lineup is announced up to 90 minutes before kickoff. If your chosen player doesn’t start, your bet will be voided.
Step 5: Enter Stake and Place Bet
Now, enter your stake, review the betslip, and submit it to place your wager.
After Placing Your Bet – What Happens Next
Once you submit a betslip, all your bets can be viewed in the same section of your account until they settle.
Tracking Your Active World Cup Bets
How does soccer betting work if you have multiple active bets? If you placed more than one bet on the World Cup, you can easily track the status of each one in the “My Bets” or “Open Bets” section. Here, you’ll find all your unsettled bets with the selection details, odds, and current status.
I recommend enabling notifications if you’re betting on the World Cup frequently. You can activate push notifications on your app to receive match stats updates and alerts when your bet settles.
How and When Bets Settle
World Cup bets settle automatically a few seconds after the event concludes, but the timing depends on the type of bet you placed.
Here’s a quick guide to how the most common bets typically settle:
- Match Bets: Settle within 15 minutes or less after the final whistle.
- Futures Bets: Settle at the conclusion of the tournament or market. Tournament winner bets for the 2026 World Cup will settle on July 19.
- Player Props: Settle within 30 minutes or less after the match ends and stats are verified.
- Live Bets: Typically settle within a few minutes after the match ends.
Once the bet settles, your wager will move from the “Active Bets” section to the “Settled” category, and will be marked as a “Win” or “Loss”.
If your bet wins, your total return will be automatically credited to your account balance. You can then use the funds to place another bet or withdraw your winnings immediately.
However, if you placed your wager using bonus funds, you’ll need to fulfil the rollover requirements to turn it into withdrawable cash. These vary between sportsbooks, so you’ll need to check the bonus terms and conditions for the exact requirements.
If your bet is unsuccessful, you lose your stake, and the status will be updated. In this case, your balance remains the same because the stake is deducted as soon as the bet is placed.
Your settled bets will appear in the “Bet History” or “Transaction History” in your account so that you can keep track of all your wagers over time. You can also download your betting history to track your spending habits and ensure you’re not overspending.
Withdrawing Your World Cup Winnings
If your bet is successful, your winnings will be instantly credited to your account balance, so you can use them to place another wager or withdraw them to your preferred banking method.
Available Withdrawal Methods in Illinois
Withdrawing winnings from World Cup betting is as straightforward as depositing funds, though the processing times aren’t usually instant. Funds typically take longer to reach your account, especially if requests have to be manually reviewed by the sportsbook.
Withdrawal processing times vary between Illinois sportsbooks, but these are the average times, limits, and fees you can expect for each payment option:
| Method | Processing Time | Min/Max | Fees |
| PayPal | 0-24 hours | $10 / $60,000 | None |
| Debit Card | 0-24 hours | $10 / $25,000 | None |
| Online Banking | 3-5 business days | $10 / $100,000 | None |
| Paper Check | 7-10 business days | $50 / $50,000 | $0 – $5 |
| Cash at Counter | Up to 48 hours | $10 / $100,000 | None |
Below are some essential withdrawal tips and conditions you should be aware of before requesting a withdrawal from your Illinois sportsbook account:
- Most sportsbooks require you to use the same payment method for deposits and withdrawals.
- Your first withdrawal may require additional verification, so it may take longer. Subsequent withdrawals should be much quicker.
- Remember to fulfill any wagering requirements before withdrawing funds if you’ve used bonus credits.
- Illinois sportsbooks use anti-fraud measures, which is why withdrawals usually take longer than deposits.
Step-by-Step Withdrawal Process
Although withdrawals aren’t typically instant, submitting a request takes less than five minutes. Here’s a step-by-step process for withdrawing World Cup winnings from Illinois betting sites:
Step 1: Verify Withdrawable Balance
First, go to your available balance and check that rollover requirements have been met (if applicable).
Step 2: Navigate to Cashier/Withdrawal
Next, go to the cashier page and click “Withdraw” or “Cash Out”.
Step 3: Select Withdrawal Method
Choose the withdrawal method from the options available. Remember, most sportsbook require you to cash out using the same payment method used when depositing.
Step 4: Enter Withdrawal Amount
Then, enter the amount you want to withdraw. You can cash out all your winnings or part of them, as long as the amount is within the withdrawal limits set by the sportsbook.
Step 5: Verify Identity (First Withdrawal Only)
On your first withdrawal, you might also need to verify the payment method or upload additional documents. Some sportsbooks also require you to confirm your address and answer security questions.
Step 6: Review and Confirm
Finally, review your withdrawal request, check the estimated arrival time, and submit the request.
Step 7: Track Withdrawal
Once you’ve submitted your request, the withdrawal will appear in the “Pending Withdrawals” section. You can track the withdrawal status on this page, and you’ll also receive an email once it’s been approved and sent.
Important World Cup Betting Rules in Illinois
If you’re new to World Cup betting, there are some critical rules unique to soccer betting that you may be unfamiliar with, especially if you’re a new bettor.
The 90-Minute Settlement Rule
The most important rule to remember when learning how to bet on the FIFA World Cup is the 90-minute settlement rule. Most World Cup bets settle within the 90-minute regulation time (plus stoppage or injury time). The stoppage time added after the official game time shouldn’t be confused with extra time or penalty shootouts, which don’t count as part of the match result.
These World Cup bet types all settle at regulation time (90 minutes + stoppage time):
- Three-way betting
- Match totals (Over/Under)
- Asian Handicaps
- Player props
- Most team props
- Half betting
However, there are a few exceptions to the 90-minute rule, including:
- To Qualify/ To Advance markets
- Tournament or Match Winner
- Some player props, such as “To Score in Entire Match” (if explicitly stated in the sportsbook terms)
Here’s a real example to illustrate the settlement rule:
In the 2022 World Cup Final, Argentina and France were tied 2-2 at the end of the 90 minutes, so the match went to extra time. The final score was 3-3, with Argentina winning on penalties.
What’s most important to remember when betting on the World Cup is to check how the bet settles in the market description – Does it settle at 90 minutes or is extra time included?
Void Bet Rules
A void bet is when a wager is canceled by the sportsbook and your original stake is refunded. There are a few different scenarios where bets can be voided, such as if the match doesn’t take place as planned or other conditions aren’t met, depending on the bet type.
These are the standard void bet rules for player props:
- First Goalscorer: Void if the player doesn’t start the match.
- Anytime Goalscorer: Usually stands even if the player is substituted, but rules may vary according to your sportsbook’s rules.
- Player Shots/Cards: Void if the player doesn’t play at all in the match.
For match bets, bets are voided if:
- The match is delayed by more than 24 hours.
- If the match is stopped before completion.
Getting Help and Support
Licensed sportsbooks in Illinois offer multiple communication channels to provide efficient customer support, including:
- Live Chat: Typically online 24/7, providing the fastest way to get help.
- Email: Ideal for longer queries or when attachments are required. The average response time via email is around 24 hours.
- Phone: Some sportsbooks also offer phone support, though this varies between operators.
- Help Center/FAQ: A detailed page with the most common questions, problems, and how to solve them.
While you probably won’t have any issues, it’s good to be aware of common issues and some simple fixes:
- If your bet didn’t settle, check the terms and settlement rules. If it’s delayed by over 24 hours, contact support.
- If your deposit fails, double-check the payment method details and check your online banking portal for declined transactions.
- If your withdrawal request is denied, ensure your account is fully verified and any required rollover is met.
- In case your account access is blocked, contact support immediately.
If you’re unsatisfied with the customer support response or your problem remains unresolved, you can file a complaint with the Illinois Gaming Board. All regulated sportsbooks in Illinois are required to comply with dispute resolution procedures.
Responsible Gambling Help:
- National Problem Gambling Helpline: 1-800-GAMBLER (24/7 free confidential support)
- Illinois Council on Problem Gambling
Ready to Start Betting on World Cup 2026
Now that you understand how to bet on World Cup markets and how to read soccer odds, you’re ready to place your first wager on the tournament.
Here’s a quick recap before getting started:
- You must be over 21 and located in Illinois to sign up.
- Create an account at a licensed sportsbook.
- Find the World Cup markets and add your selection by clicking it. If you’re new to soccer betting, a simple three-way bet is the best way to start.
- Review your betslip, submit it, and wait for it to settle.
If you’re betting on the World Cup for the first time, I suggest starting with around 1-2% of your total budget. Bets of around $10 are ideal for learning how to bet on the World Cup without huge risks.
The 48-team World Cup runs from June 11 to July 19, 2026, with 104 matches offering countless betting opportunities. All Illinois sportsbooks provide similar markets, so you can choose your platform by comparing odds, promotions, and app usability.
You can view current World Cup odds, compare the top sportsbooks in Illinois, and explore World Cup betting markets in our guides.
World Cup Betting FAQ – Getting Started
What do I need to bet on the World Cup in Illinois?
You must be at least 21 years old and physically located in Illinois to bet on the World Cup. You’ll also need a government-issued ID and a valid payment method for verification.
How long does account creation take?
Creating an account typically takes less than 15 minutes, and verification is usually instant, though some accounts may require manual review, in which case it may up to 72 hours.
What deposit methods are available in Illinois?
Illinois sportsbooks typically accept debit cards like Visa and Mastercard, PayPal, Venmo, and online bank transfers. Deposits are processed instantly, while withdrawals take a bit longer.
How do I find World Cup betting markets?
To find World Cup betting markets, go to the soccer category, select “International”, then choose “FIFA World Cup”. You can also type “World Cup” in the search bar for quicker access.
What do + and – odds mean?
A plus (+) indicates the profit you’d make on a $100 bet (underdog), while the minus (-) shows the amount you’d need to bet to make a $100 profit (favorite).
Where do I enter my bet amount?
When you’ve added your selection to the betslip, you’ll be prompted to enter your stake in the empty field at the bottom. Once you add the amount, the potential payout will be automatically displayed.
Do World Cup bets include extra time and penalties?
No, most bets settle after 90 minutes (and stoppage time), which means goals scored during extra time or penalties don’t count. Exceptions to this rule include “To Qualify/Advance” markets.
How do I track my active World Cup bets?
Go to the “My Bets” or “Open Bets” section in your account to see all pending wagers and track live updates during a match.
When do World Cup bets settle?
Match bets always settle within 15 minutes of the final whistle, while futures settle after the tournament concludes.
How do I withdraw my winnings?
To withdraw your winnings, go to the cashier page, click “Withdraw”, choose your banking method, and enter the amount you want to withdraw. Then, submit your request.
What happens if a player I bet on doesn’t play?
If you bet on a player to be the first goalscorer, the bet will void if the player doesn’t start the match.
Can I cash out my bet early?
Most Illinois sportsbooks offer cash-out during matches, allowing you to secure a partial profit instead of risking your whole wager waiting for the result.
What if my World Cup bet doesn’t settle?
If your World Cup bet doesn’t settle within 24 hours, it’s best to contact the sportsbook’s customer support via live chat or email.
Where can I get help with betting questions?
Most sportsbooks provide 24/7 live chat, a detailed FAQ page, and support via email or phone, so you can easily get help with betting questions or any issues during the World Cup.
What if I think I have a gambling problem?
If you think you might have a gambling problem, call 1-800-GAMBLER immediately. You should also use self-exclusion tools in your account, and access free confidential support.