In 2019, Illinois lawmakers legalized online gambling in the state. However, they have the Illinois online casino legalization on hold yet.
Meanwhile, the clamor for online casinos in IL is becoming high. In this article, we’ll discuss everything you need to know about online casinos, including the best Illinois ones. So let’s dive right in!
Best Illinois online casinos in 2024
Online casinos are currently not legalized in Illinois, but check out our other gambling options below!
Illinois online casino: All sites are 100% legal & licensed by the state.
| Company | Bonus | Features | Visit |
 | DraftKings Sportsbook Bet $5, get $150 in bonus bets |
| Bet now DraftKings Sportsbook IL |
 | Caesars Sportsbook Up to $1,500 in bet credits |
| Bet now Caesars IL promo code |
 | BetRivers Sportsbook Get up to $500 in bonus |
| Bet now BetRivers IL promo code |
 | BetMGM Sportsbook Up to $1,000 in bonus bets |
| Bet now BetMGM IL bonus code |
Are online casinos in Illinois legal?
As of now, online casinos in Illinois are still not legal. It’s despite the state’s efforts to expand gambling opportunities. Notably, Governor J.B. Pritzker signed a bill in 2019 legalizing sports betting. However, online casinos are not yet part of the plan. The state has yet to introduce a bill to legalize online casinos or include provisions in existing legislation.
The Illinois online casino legalization may be lagging behind other states. However, this doesn’t mean that the future is bleak. On the contrary, the state is known for being progressive in gambling. Thus, it’s likely only a matter of time before they join the ranks of those that allow online casinos. In the meantime, gamblers in Illinois can still enjoy other forms of gambling.
A new bill regarding IL online casinos
Illinois has been considering the legalization of online casinos for some time now. Moreover, recent legislative developments suggest it may be closer than ever to becoming a reality. Notably, the Illinois House of Representatives introduced a bill on February 16, 2022. It would legalize online casino gaming and sports betting in the state.
In particular, HB 4067 would allow Illinois casinos to apply for licenses. Mainly, it’s to offer online casino games to players within the state. The bill specifies that the games include slots, table games, and poker. Additionally, players must be at least 21 years old. They should also be physically in the state to participate.
Anticipated online casinos coming to Illinois
The Illinois Gaming Board is working on the Illinois online casino gaming regulations. The expectation is that its finalization will happen in a few months. Once the laws are in place, Illinois residents and visitors can enjoy online casino games. These games include slots, blackjack, roulette, and more.
Once the regulations are finalized, we expect major online casino operators to enter the Illinois market. Some best Illinois online casino companies likely to launch include BetMGM, FanDuel, DraftKings, BetRivers, PointsBet, and Caesars Entertainment.
BetMGM
It’s a prominent name in the world of online gaming. BetMGM offers sports betting, online poker, and casino games in multiple states. It has already partnered in Illinois with the sportsbook at the Grand Victoria Casino in Elgin. So potentially, it could pave the way for its Illinois online casino launching.
BetMGM is known for its user-friendly interface and wide range of casino games. It includes slots, table games, and live dealer options.
FanDuel
It’s primarily known for its sportsbook, but FanDuel has also branched into online casino gaming in other states. FanDuel has partnered with the Par-A-Dice Hotel and Casino in East Peoria to offer sports betting in Illinois.
Suppose the company expands into online casino gaming. In that case, it could leverage this existing partnership to launch a platform in the state. FanDuel’s casino games typically include slots, table games, and live dealer options.
DraftKings
Like FanDuel, DraftKings is primarily a sportsbook but has also launched online casinos in other states. For example, in Illinois, DraftKings has partnered with the Casino Queen in East St. Louis to offer sports betting. Consequently, it could provide a pathway to launching their Illinois online casino platform.
DraftKings’ casino games usually include slots, table games, and live dealer options. Additionally, the company is known for its generous bonuses and promotions in Illinois.
BetRivers
The BetRivers owner is Rush Street Interactive, which is based in Illinois. It has already launched an online sportsbook in the state. Therefore, it gives BetRivers a significant advantage in launching an Illinois online casino platform because the company has established relationships with regulators, and they can leverage existing infrastructure.
Moreover, BetRivers has partnered with Rivers Casino in Des Plaines. It’s one of the state’s most popular brick-and-mortar gambling locations. This partnership ensures that BetRivers offers a safe and secure online gambling experience. BetRivers’ casino games typically include slots, table games, and live dealer options. Additionally, the company is known for its easy-to-use interface and generous bonuses.
PointsBet
Primarily it’s another sportsbook. However, the company has also launched online casinos in other states. For example, PointsBet has partnered with Hawthorne Race Course in Illinois to offer sports betting. As a result, it could provide a pathway to launching their Illinois online casino platform.
PointsBet’s casino games usually include slots, table games, and live dealer options. Additionally, the company has gained a reputation for providing distinctive betting options and promotions.
Caesars Entertainment
Remarkably, it’s a well-known name in the gaming industry. The company already operates the Harrah’s Joliet and Harrah’s Metropolis casinos in Illinois. This existing infrastructure could help Caesars launch its Illinois online casino platform. Mainly, it’s if the company partners with an established online gaming provider.
Caesars’ casino games typically include slots, table games, and live dealer options. Moreover, the company is famous for its high-end properties and VIP programs.
It’s worth noting that the online gaming landscape in Illinois is still evolving. However, each company we mentioned has a strong track record in other states. Therefore, they could bring a unique offering to the Illinois market.
Partnerships
Illinois also has partnerships with several tribes and sports teams. For example, the Pokagon Band of Potawatomi Indians operates the Four Winds Casino in South Bend, Indiana. It’s just a short drive from Chicago. The Chicago Cubs have also partnered with DraftKings. It’s to offer sports betting and online casino games to fans.
Different online casino games
The trend of online casinos has witnessed a significant upsurge in the past few years. They provide players with a convenient way to enjoy various casino games from the comfort of their homes. Below are some of the most sought-after online casino games that players like.
Slots
They are the most popular online casino games. Mainly, they are easy to play, come in a wide range of themes, and offer the chance to win big. Illinois online gambling slots typically have three or five reels and varying pay lines. In addition, some slots offer progressive jackpots. It means the jackpot increases with each bet placed until someone wins.
Blackjack
It’s a classic casino game that is popular both online and offline. The game’s objective is to get a hand of cards with a value of 21 or as close to 21 as possible without going over. Players can hit to get additional cards, stand to keep their current hand or double down to double their bet and receive one more card.
Roulette
This game is another classic casino game that is popular both online and offline. In this game, a ball is spun around a wheel with numbered slots. Players place their bets on where they think the ball will stop. Also, the odds of the bet determine the payouts.
Baccarat
A popular card game, it’s easy to learn and play. The game aims to have a hand with a value of 9 or as close to 9 as possible. Players can bet on their own hand or the dealer’s hand, or they can bet on a tie.
Video Poker
Traditional poker inspires this game, but players use a machine instead of competing against each other. The machine deals five cards to each player. They decide which ones to keep and discard. The game’s objective is to form the most potent poker hand possible.
Craps
It’s a widely recognized casino game that involves rolling two dice and placing bets on the outcome. There are a variety of bets that you can make in craps. Mainly each of them with its odds and payouts.
Live casino games
Many online casinos now offer live casino games. You can play games in real-time with a live dealer. Examples of such games include blackjack, roulette, baccarat, and other similar options. They provide a more immersive and authentic casino experience.
Final words
When playing games for Illinois online casino real money, it’s essential to set a budget and stick to it. It can be easy to get caught up in the excitement of virtual gaming. However, it’s crucial to gamble responsibly. Only wager with funds that you can afford to part with. Additionally, avoid the temptation to recover your losses by wagering more. Moreover, you should create a budget and stick to it. Do not exceed your means or chase after losses.
Suppose you find yourself struggling with problem gambling. In that case, resources are available to help you, such as the National Council on Problem Gambling and the Illinois Council on Problem Gambling.
FAQs about Illinois online casinos
Yes, online gambling is legal in Illinois. However, it’s currently limited to sports betting, online lottery sales, and daily fantasy sports. Illinois online casino gambling is still not legal.
There is yet to be a clear timeline for when Illinois may legalize online casino games. However, there have been discussions about expanding online gambling in the state.
You can check the Illinois Gaming Board website. It has a list of licensed online sportsbooks and fantasy sports operators. The Illinois Lottery website also lists authorized online lottery retailers.
Technically, you can access offshore online casinos from Illinois. However, doing so is illegal and risky. These sites are not licensed or regulated by the state. Therefore, there’s no guarantee of fair play or security.
Currently, you cannot gamble legally in any Illinois online casino. You can only gamble legally online in Illinois by placing sports bets through licensed sportsbooks. Or you can purchase lottery tickets through the Illinois Lottery website.
