Online Sports Betting in Illinois
Illinois has rapidly become one of the leading markets for online sports betting in the United States. Since legalizing sports betting in 2019, the state has embraced both online and in-person wagering, making it a popular destination for sports enthusiasts. With a large population and a deep passion for sports, Illinois offers a dynamic and competitive environment for sports betting. This page provides an overview of the legal landscape for online sports betting in Illinois, including key facts, statistics, and answers to frequently asked questions.
Key Facts and Stats
- Current Status: Online sports betting is fully legal in Illinois, with multiple licensed operators providing mobile and online wagering options.
- Legalization Date: Illinois legalized sports betting, including online betting, on June 28, 2019, as part of a broader gambling expansion bill. The first bets were placed in March 2020.
- Licensing: Illinois has issued licenses to several major sportsbooks, including DraftKings, FanDuel, BetMGM, Caesars, and PointsBet, among others, creating a competitive market with various options for bettors.
- Market Size: Illinois has quickly become one of the top sports betting markets in the U.S., consistently generating billions of dollars in wagers annually. The state regularly ranks among the highest in terms of betting handle and revenue.
- Tax Revenue: Sports betting revenue in Illinois is taxed at a rate of 15%, with proceeds supporting state infrastructure projects, education, and other public initiatives. The tax rate is one of the higher rates in the country, contributing significantly to state funds.
- Betting Requirements: Initially, Illinois required in-person registration for online sports betting accounts, but this requirement was lifted in March 2022, allowing bettors to sign up and place bets entirely online.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Is online sports betting legal in Illinois?
Yes, online sports betting is fully legal in Illinois. Bettors can place wagers through a variety of licensed mobile apps and websites from anywhere within the state.
2. Which sportsbooks are available in Illinois?
Illinois offers a variety of licensed sportsbooks, including major platforms like DraftKings, FanDuel, BetMGM, Caesars, PointsBet, and others. These sportsbooks provide a wide range of betting options and competitive promotions.
3. Can I place in-person bets in Illinois?
Yes, in-person sports betting is available at several casinos, racetracks, and sports venues across Illinois. These locations have physical sportsbooks where you can place bets on a wide range of sports and events.
4. What sports can I bet on in Illinois?
Illinois allows betting on a wide variety of sports, including professional and college sports, international events, and more. However, there are restrictions on betting on in-state college teams—bets on Illinois college teams are only allowed in person, not online.
5. Are my winnings from online sports betting taxable in Illinois?
Yes, winnings from online sports betting are subject to both federal and state taxes. You are required to report your gambling winnings as part of your income when filing your taxes.
6. How does Illinois regulate online sports betting?
Online sports betting in Illinois is regulated by the Illinois Gaming Board, which oversees the licensing and operations of sportsbooks in the state, ensuring compliance with state laws and providing a safe environment for bettors.
Conclusion
Illinois has quickly established itself as a major hub for online sports betting in the U.S., offering a well-regulated and competitive environment for bettors. With a wide range of licensed operators and diverse betting options, Illinois provides an accessible and exciting platform for sports enthusiasts. The removal of the in-person registration requirement has further streamlined the process, making it easier than ever for residents and visitors to engage in legal online sports betting. As the market continues to grow, Illinois is expected to remain a leading destination for sports wagering, attracting both seasoned bettors and newcomers alike.
Explore More State-by-State Laws
States highlighted in green show where online betting is currently permitted. Discover the legal landscape across the U.S. by exploring our interactive map.