Several generous IL sportsbook promos — worth as much as $5,750+ — await new Illinois sports betting customers in 2026. We spotlight and define the top Illinois sports betting sign-up offers and promos from books like FanDuel, DraftKings, and Caesars.
Top Illinois sportsbook promos
Features
- Some of the best live-betting odds.
- Great deposit options.
- Earn MGM Rewards from betting activity.
BetMGM Review
BetMGM is one of the top-rated sportsbooks in the U.S. offering some of the best live betting odds in the industry. They’re also the largest iGaming operator across the U.S.
Features
Features
- Lots of promos and odds boosts.
- Wide range of sports and bet types.
- Early Exit policy for player props
DraftKings Review
DraftKings had a solid reputation as the leading DFS provider in the country, so the shift to legal sports betting felt natural. They offer one of the most voluminous collections of ongoing promos and odds boosts in the industry as they cater to the beginner crowd.
GAMBLING PROBLEM? CALL 1-800-GAMBLER or 1-800-522-4700, (800) 327-5050 or visit MA Gambling Helpline (MA). Call 877-8-HOPENY/text HOPENY (467369) (NY).
Please Gamble Responsibly. 888-789-7777/visit CONNECTICUT COUNCIL – ON PROBLEM GAMBLING (CT), or visit MARG (MD).
21+ and present in most states. (18+ DC/KY/NH/WY). Void in ONT/OR/NH. Eligibility restrictions apply. On behalf of Boot Hill Casino & Resort (KS). Pass-thru of per wager tax may apply in IL. 1 per new customer. Must register new account to receive reward Token. Must select Token BEFORE placing min. $5 bet to receive $200 in Bonus Bets if your bet wins. Min. -500 odds req. Token and Bonus Bets are single-use and non-withdrawable. Bet must settle by and Token expires 3/15/26. Bonus Bets expire in 7 days (168 hours). Stake removed from payout. Terms: http://sportsbook.draftkings.com/promos . Ends 3/8/26 at 11:59 PM ET. Sponsored by DK.
Features
Features
- Top-tier app experience.
- Same Game Parlays and SGP+.
- Extensive promos and odds boosts.
FanDuel Review
FanDuel reigns supreme right now as the No. 1 betting site in America. And it has largely earned that spot on the strength of superior brand recognition, an easy-to-use product, an overwhelming number of markets for North America’s most popular sports, and representation in every state in which it is permitted to offer legal sports betting.
Features
Features
- Extensive live betting options.
- More markets than any other sportsbook.
- One of the best apps in the industry.
bet365 Review
bet365 is live in Illinois. Users can use code SBR365 when signing up.
Features
Other Illinois sportsbook promos
For those looking for the best Illinois sports betting promos, there are plenty of lucrative offers above, including some over $1,000. BetMGM boasts one of the best sign-up bonuses with a high potential value — up to $1,500.
If you've already claimed those bonuses and want to hunt for others (or are just looking to try out a new sportsbook), you should check out these other Illinois options:
| IL online sportsbook 🏆 | Welcome bonus 💰 | Promo code ✅ |
|---|---|---|
| ⭐ Fanatics | {{bonus/betfanatics/headline/us/il/*}} | No code required |
| ⭐ theScore Bet | {{bonus/thescore-bet/headline/*/*/*}} | No code required |
| ⭐ Circa Sports | No welcome bonus | No code required |
| ⭐ Hard Rock Bet | {{bonus/hard-rock/headline/*/*/*}} | No code required |
| ⭐ BetRivers | {{bonus/betrivers/headline/*/*/*}} | No code required |
1. FanDuel IL welcome offer 🔵
New FanDuel Illinois customers can claim a '{{bonus/fanduel/bonus_text/*/*/*}}' offer without the need for a FanDuel promo code. Here are the pertinent details:
- You can register on any device, but you'll have to download the FanDuel app to claim the bonus.
- A minimum $5 deposit is required.
- Place a $5+ bet on any available betting market. If it wins, FanDuel will provide you with {{bonus/fanduel/bonus_breakdown/*/*/*}}.
- Bonus bets must be used within seven days of receipt.
FanDuel IL pros and cons
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| ✅ Low initial investment | ❌ Must download app to claim |
| ✅ Can spread bonus bets out | ❌ Short expiration date |
| ✅ Low min. deposit requirement | ❌ First bet must win to collect bonus |
Why this bonus is better than others
FanDuel's {{bonus/fanduel/bonus_breakdown/*/*/*}} offer is nice because it's super flexible. You can use it all at once or break it into multiple smaller pieces.
2. Caesars Sportsbook IL welcome offer 🏛
A Las Vegas casino and sports betting industry veteran has taken its talents online to Illinois. New customers only need to place a $1 wager to take advantage of a lucrative {{bonus/caesars/bonus_text/*/*/*}} welcome bonus. You will need to use Caesars Sportsbook promo code {{bonus/caesars/bonus_code/*/*/*}} to redeem the promo when completing the required $10 deposit. Here's how to collect your bonus:
- Create an account and use promo code {{bonus/caesars/bonus_code/*/*/*}} at sign up.
- Make a deposit of at least $10.
- Wager $1 via the Caesars mobile app or desktop site.
- {{bonus/caesars/bonus_breakdown/*/*/*}} will be credited to your account, which you can use on any market.
- Bonus bet is one-time use and cannot be divided across multiple wagers.
- Bonus Bet must be used within 30 days from the date it is awarded.
Caesars IL pros and cons
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| ✅ Easy bonus to redeem | ❌ Bonus bet cannot be split up |
| ✅ Only a $10 deposit required | ❌ Can’t withdraw as cash |
| ✅ Great for all bettors |
Why this bonus is better than others
Simply put, if you can max out Caesars' welcome bonus, then there is no other that comes even remotely close to it in terms of value. That said, maxing out this bonus is incredibly difficult and very few bettors will be rewarded the full $25,000 that this bonus can be worth. The only real downside is that you must use your Profit Boost Tokens within 14 days.
3. bet365 IL welcome offer 🟢
One of the world's biggest sportsbooks has arrived, as bet365 launched in Illinois in March 2025. The U.K.-based sportsbook is celebrating by offering new users a {{bonus/bet365/bonus_text/*/*/*}} welcome bonus. Use the bet365 Illinois bonus code SBR365 to get started with the Land of Lincoln's newest sportsbook
- The bet365 welcome bonus can only be claimed with the mobile app, so start by downloading it to your smart device.
- Register at bet365 with our unique SBR365 promo code.
- You can only claim this welcome bonus in the bet365 mobile app.
- You must make a minimum deposit of at least $10.
- Your qualifying wager must be {{bonus/bet365/minimum_wager/*/*/*}} or more (min odds -500).
- Win or lose, you'll receive {{bonus/bet365/bonus_total/*/*/*}} in bonus bets.
- The bonus bets can be used all at once or split into chunks.
- You cannot redeem the bonus bet for cash, and they expire in seven days.
bet365 also has a secondary promo you can check out instead: a First Bet Safety Net up to $1,000. Just be aware that you can only claim one sign-up bonus with bet365.
Odds correct at time of publishing.
bet365 IL pros and cons
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| ✅ Flexible bonus bets | ❌ Bonus bets can't be cashed out |
| ✅ First bet doesn't have to lose | ❌ Smaller overall bonus value |
| ✅ Low cost of entry |
Why this bonus is better than others
The bet365 bonus stands out due to its simplicity and flexibility. With a {{bonus/bet365/minimum_wager/*/*/*}} wager, you can unlock {{bonus/bet365/bonus_total/*/*/*}} in bonus bets, win or lose. It's a perfect welcome offer for new bettors because it's low risk and instantly boosts your bankroll. Plus, if that bonus doesn't excite you, you can choose the alternate First Bet Safety Net offer instead and go big on a first bet without worrying about losing.
4. BetMGM IL welcome offer 🦁
The sportsbook and self-appointed "King of Parlays" offers new players in Illinois a $1,500 First Bet welcome offer. Use the BetMGM bonus code SBRBONUS to redeem this welcome bonus.
- $10 minimum deposit is required.
- Make a first wager of at least $1 on any sports betting market.
- If your first bet doesn't win, get your entire stake back as bonus bets.
- Maximum first bet offer amount if $1,500.
- If you wager more than $50 and lose, BetMGM will pay out the total amount in 20% bonus bet increments of the total amount lost. So, a $1,500 first bet loss would pay out in five (5) $300 bonus bets.
- If you bet less than $50 and lose, BetMGM will pay out one bonus bet credit.
- Bonus bets must be used within seven days of account credit.
BetMGM IL pros and cons
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| ✅ Low minimum deposit | ❌ Short expiration date |
| ✅ Four-figure second change bet | ❌ Must lose first bet to claim |
Why this bonus is better than others
This is a great promo for bettors looking to place a large first wager. You can place a first bet of up to $1,500. If it loses, you will receive the initial wager back in bonus bets. For bettors with a smaller budget, you can still earn bonus bets for any wager of $1 or more.
5. DraftKings IL welcome offer 👑
One of the industry leaders in daily fantasy sports and sports betting, DraftKings Illinois' latest welcome offer allows new players to {{bonus/draftkings/bonus_text/*/*/*}}. No DraftKings promo code is required at the time of redemption. Take a look at the key information:
- You must make a minimum deposit of at least {{bonus/draftkings/minimum_deposit/*/*/*}}.
- Your qualifying wager must be {{bonus/draftkings/minimum_wager/*/*/*}} or more, min. -500 odds.
- You'll receive {{bonus/draftkings/bonus_total/*/*/*}} in bonus bets if your wager wins.
- The bonus is paid out in {{bonus/draftkings/bonus_breakdown/*/*/*}}.
- You cannot redeem the bonus bets for cash, and they expire in seven days.
DraftKings also has a secondary promo you may want to check out instead. With this alternate offer, you can claim a 20% deposit bonus, up to $1,000. Just be aware that the bonus funds come with a hefty playthrough requirement.
DraftKings IL pros and cons
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| ✅ No promo code required | ❌ Less appealing to seasoned bettors |
| ✅ Low cost of entry | ❌ Smaller overall bonus value |
Why this bonus is better than others
This bonus is better than others because it offers a great bang for your buck. While other sportsbooks may offer $1,000+ bonuses, they typically require you to make (and lose) a large bet to collect it. To receive {{bonus/draftkings/bonus_total/*/*/*}} in bonus bets, you only have to risk {{bonus/draftkings/minimum_wager/*/*/*}} on a winning bet.
GAMBLING PROBLEM? CALL 1-800-GAMBLER or 1-800-522-4700, (800) 327-5050 or visit MA Gambling Helpline (MA). Call 877-8-HOPENY/text HOPENY (467369) (NY).
Please Gamble Responsibly. 888-789-7777/visit CONNECTICUT COUNCIL – ON PROBLEM GAMBLING (CT), or visit Home (MD).
21+ and present in most states. (18+ DC/KY/NH/WY). Void in ONT/OR/NH. Eligibility restrictions apply. On behalf of Boot Hill Casino & Resort (KS). Pass-thru of per wager tax may apply in IL. 1 per new customer. Must register new account to receive reward Token. Must select Token BEFORE placing min. $5 bet to receive $200 in Bonus Bets if your bet wins. Min. -500 odds req. Token and Bonus Bets are single-use and non-withdrawable. Bet must settle by and Token expires 3/15/26. Bonus Bets expire in 7 days (168 hours). Stake removed from payout. Terms: Promos | DraftKings Sportsbook . Ends 3/8/26 at 11:59 PM ET. Sponsored by DK.
6. Fanatics IL welcome offer 🧢
Fanatics is a major seller of officially licensed sports apparel that has entered the sports betting arena. You don't need a Fanatics Sportsbook promo code to grab its welcome bonus: {{bonus/betfanatics/headline/*/*/*}}. It's a unique promotion that breaks down as follows:
- Download the Fanatics Sportsbook app and make an account.
- Deposit at least $10 into your account.
- Make a daily qualifying bet of $1 or more, with minimum odds of -200 or longer.
- Win or lose, Fanatics will match your stake with FanCash, up to $100.
- Repeat this process for the first ten days after creating your account (10 x up to $100 per day).
- Opt-in required on every day except Day One.
- Missed days are forfeited, but you can still earn the bonus on any remaining days.
- Unused FanCash expires after seven days.
- FanCash can be redeemed for bonus bets or put towards apparel, jerseys, caps, and collectibles on the Fanatics online store.
If you prefer, an alternative Fanatics welcome bonus is available in Illinois: Get five 100% Profit Boost Tokens after creating your account and depositing at least $10. Use these Tokens to potentially Double Your Winnings on five future wagers. Terms and conditions apply.
Fanatics IL pros and cons
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| ✅ Great deal of flexibility | ❌ Bonus cannot be withdrawn as cash |
| ✅ No promo code required | ❌ Missed days result in no bonus |
Why this bonus is better than others
The Fanatics welcome offer is perfect for all bettors because it scales to your comfort zone. If you just want to place some fun bets, you can wager as little as $1 each day. For bettors with a larger budget, up to $100 in FanCash can be awarded each day for 10 consecutive days. This is truly a promo for everyone.
7. BetRivers IL welcome offer ⚡
BetRivers recently updated its new-player welcome offer: Claim up to a $ 500-second chance bet without needing a BetRivers bonus code. Should your first bet lose, BetRivers will insure it up to $500.
- Minimum deposit of $10 is required.
- The first bet must lose for the welcome offer to kick in.
- The bonus bet value of up to $500 will be credited to your account within 24 hours.
- There are odds limits when wagering with bonus bet credits -200 or longer.
BetRivers IL pros and cons
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| ✅ Guaranteed second chance bet | ❌ Must lose first bet |
| ✅ Low minimum deposit | ❌ Odds restrictions |
| ✅ Exclusive promo code | ❌ More valuable first bet offer offers exist |
Why this bonus is better than others
If we’re being honest, BetRivers' previous welcome offer of a deposit match bonus up to $250 was better because bonus monies were guaranteed. A second-chance bet up to $500 is still pretty strong, but it pales in comparison to other similar offers from top Illinois sportsbooks. That being said, there's nothing wrong with this offer, and it's still worth exploring as you broaden your sportsbook usage.
Additional sportsbooks
Hard Rock Bet is also in Illinois and offers {{bonus/hard-rock/bonus_text/*/*/*}} for new players who make an account and deposit $10 or more. For more info on the sportsbook, see our Hard Rock Bet promo code page.
theScore Bet is another strong option for bettors in Illinois, bringing a trusted brand name into the sports betting space. Use theScore Bet promo code for up to $100 in bonus bets as a new player if you wager $10+ and win.
Illinois sports betting promos summary
| ➡️ Legal betting age | 21+ |
| 🔔 IL regulator | Illinois Gaming Board |
| 🏆 Best IL bonus | DraftKings: {{bonus/draftkings/headline/*/*/*}} |
| 📱 Sports betting apps | 10 |
| 🙋 Do promos require codes? | Sometimes |
| 🙋 Can you withdraw bonus funds? | No |
| 💵 Biggest IL bonus | BetMGM: $1,500 First Bet Offer |
| 🎰 Online casinos | No |
| 🃏 Online poker | No |
| ☎️ IL problem gambling hotline | 1-800-GAMBLER |
| 🤲 Gambling addiction counseling | Yes |
Gambling problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER
Illinois betting surcharges
Most sportsbooks in the state have recently added new per-bet surcharges or increased the minimum bet amount in order to combat a new state tax that is charged for every wager they accept.
Here is a current list of surcharges or minimum wagering limits from the best Illinois sportsbooks:
- bet365: A $0.25 surcharge will be applied to all bets under $10.
- BetMGM: New minimum bet limit of $2.50.
- BetRivers: New minimum bet limit $1.00.
- Circia: New minimum bet limit of $10.00
- Caesars: A $0.25 surcharge will be applied to all bets.
- DraftKings: A $0.50 surcharge will be applied to all bets (waived on all parlays).
- theScore Bet: New minimum bet limit $1.00.
- Fanatics: A $0.25 surcharge will be applied to all bets.
- FanDuel: A $0.50 surcharge will be applied to all bets.
- Hard Rock Bet: New minimum bet limit of $2.00.
Sportsbooks are now charged $0.25 for each of the first 20 million wagers they accept each year, and $0.50 for every wager after that. Some books have promised to remove the new surcharges or minimum bets if the state repeals the new tax.
Illinois sports betting recent updates
Jan. 26, 2026: FanDuel drops its Illinois welcome bonus down to $200 in bonus bets after any winning first bet of $5 or more.
Jan. 19, 2026: Illinois sportsbooks get a favorable result in the Chicago Bears' loss to the Los Angeles Rams in the NFL Divisional Round. Illinois sports fans endure a disappointing result in the NFL Playoffs, as the Chicago Bears are eliminated by the Los Angeles Rams. However, sportsbooks ended up on the right side of the Rams' 20-17 victory, as the favored team came under the projected total and failed to cover the spread.
Jan. 5, 2026: DraftKings and FanDuel increase their respective Illinois welcome offers in time for the NFL Playoffs. Both sportsbooks now offer new customers $300 in bonus bets if their first $5 bet wins.
Dec. 17, 2025: Caesars makes a significant update to its sportsbook welcome bonus in Illinois. New users now get a 100% Bet Match on their first qualifying wager, up to $250.
Dec. 16, 2025: FanDuel improves its sportsbook welcome bonus in Illinois. New users can now unlock $250 on a winning first bet of $5 or more.
Dec. 1, 2025: ESPN BET officially rebrands as theScore Bet across the United States.
Oct. 29, 2025: Illinois gaming regulators warn licensed sportsbooks about getting into the prediction market business, saying they could see their sports betting licenses suspended or revoked.
Oct. 17, 2025: Illinois sportsbooks generate $107.8 million in revenue in August 2025, from a betting handle of $1.03 billion. It was an 82% increase in revenue, year-over-year, and a 19% increase in handle.
Oct. 2, 2025: Illinois has emerged as one of the most profitable jurisdictions for sports betting taxes, ranking third behind New York and New Jersey in terms of sports betting tax collections.
Sept. 24, 2025: Illinois sportsbooks generated $862.5 million in betting handle in July 2025, leading to $89.7 million in adjusted gross revenue. Both numbers are up by at least 10% compared to the same month last year.
Sept. 16, 2025: With the excitement of a new NFL season dying down, multiple IL sportsbooks reduce their welcome bonuses slightly, including DraftKings and bet365.
Aug. 21, 2025: bet365 increases its IL welcome offer ahead of the new football season, now offering all new players a 'Bet $5, Get $200 in Bonus Bets' promotion.
Aug. 4, 2025: DraftKings updates its welcome offer to bet $5, get $200 in bonus bets, plus over $200 off NFL Sunday Ticket.
Jun. 23, 2025: DraftKings and FanDuel update their IL sportsbook welcome offers to kick off the summer. New players get $150 in Bonus Bets when they place an initial bet of $5 or more, though FanDuel requires a winning wager.
Jun. 9, 2025: Illinois lawmakers pass a new "per-bet fee" on sports betting, which charges $0.25 per bet on the first 20 million wagers taken by a sportsbook (and $0.50 per bet beyond that). Circa Sportsbook CEO Derek Stevens called the new tax "illogical."
Apr. 14, 2025: DraftKings makes a change to its Illinois welcome bonus, now offering $200 in bonus bets if you make a first bet of $5 or more.
April 8, 2025: FanDuel increases its IL welcome bonus, now offering $250 in bonus bets if you win a first wager of $5 or more.
March 24, 2025: Fanatics Sportsbooks launches its "Choose Your Own Offer" welcome bonus in Illinois. New users can bet $30 and get $300 in bonus bets OR get up to $1,000 in No Sweat Bets.
Feb. 10, 2025: DraftKings, FanDuel, Caesars, and ESPN BET all update their welcome offers in Illinois. DraftKings and FanDuel now have "bet $5, win $150" deals, while Caesars has brought back its 100% profit boost tokens promotion. Finally, ESPN BET now offers new users a bet $10, get $100 in bonus bets deal, plus 30 days of ESPN+ and a 200% deposit match up to $500.
Jan. 16, 2025: FanDuel updates its welcome offer in Illinois. New users can unlock $300 in bonus bets if their first $5 bet wins.
Dec. 23, 2024: FanDuel increases its Illinois welcome bonus, now offering all new customers $250 in bonus bets for making (and winning) any first bet of $5 or more.
Nov. 27, 2024: BetMGM consolidates its Rewards Points program into a single digital account, allowing Illinois users to carry over points across jurisdictions.
Nov. 25, 2024: Caesars updates its welcome offer, giving new users 10 100% Profit Boost Tokens for wagering $1.
Nov. 18, 2024: DraftKings updates its IL welcome bonus again. New users can now get $150 in bonus bets + a $1,000 deposit offer.
Nov. 12, 2024: ESPN BET updates its IL welcome offer. New users can now claim up to $1,500 in bonus bets + a 200% first deposit match up to $500.
Oct. 24, 2024: FanDuel makes another change to its Illinois welcome bonus, offering a bet $5, win $150 in bonus bets deal for all new customers.
Oct. 7, 2024: FanDuel changes its IL welcome bonus, now offering a bet $5, win $300 in bonus bets deal.
Sept. 20, 2024: DraftKings lowers its IL welcome bonus from $250 to $200, and removes the additional NFL+ Premium subscription offer.
Aug. 26, 2024: Hard Rock Bet launches its online sportsbook in Illinois.
Aug. 12, 2024: Illinois sports betting sees a June handle of $848 million, a 16.6% decrease month-over-month.
July 10, 2024: The Illinois Gaming Board reports that Prairie State residents wagered $1.02 billion in May, extending the state's streak to nine consecutive months with over $1 billion in handle. New York was the only state to post a higher May sports betting handle than Illinois ($1.98 billion).
June 26, 2024: The Chicago Blackhawks announced they will wear a Circa Sports advertising patch on their jerseys for the upcoming 2024-25 NHL season.
June 18, 2024: Illinois lawmakers defend the recent decision to increase taxes on online sports betting operators, saying they are merely bringing their tax rates in line with the standard in other states.
May 22, 2024: The proposed plan for sports bars to offer arcade game betting hits another snag, despite support from state lawmakers. Dave & Buster's is leading the charge, and the case remains ongoing.
May 7, 2024: FanDuel and DraftKings have made recent tweaks to their IL welcome bonus, both dropping the total amount from $200 to $150.
Mar. 15, 2024: BetMGM changes its Illinois welcome bonus, offering an up to $1,500First Bet Offer for new customers.
Dec. 8, 2022: Illinois records a single-month handle of over $1 billion for the first time in history, as October 2022 saw $1.03 billion in cumulative wagers placed.
Jun. 18, 2020: BetRivers becomes the first online sportsbook to launch in the Land of Lincoln.
Mar. 9, 2020: Rivers Casino (Des Plaines) becomes the first of six casino applicants to open a retail sportsbook in Illinois.
How we rate and review sports betting promotions
We strive to thoroughly provide our readers with an in-depth and independent critique of all ten Illinois online sportsbooks and Illinois sports betting apps. Our team of experts also applies the same quality standards when we rate and review sports betting promotions and bonuses. We consider several factors like these:
- The earnings potential of each bonus.
- If the sports betting promo is guaranteed simply by signing up or by making a first deposit.
- If the bonus funds requires you to lose a first bet (or bets) to unlock value.
- If a promo code is required to redeem the promo?
- Is there a minimum deposit amount required?
- How long are the bonus funds good for, or do they carry an expiry date?
- If any playthrough requirements must be met before you can withdrawal.
Types of Illinois betting sign-up offers and bonuses
New players in Illinois have several options regarding sign-up offers and bonuses operators are using to entice and attract customers. Still, the three most common sportsbook promos are deposit match bonuses, bonus bets, and second chance bets.
Deposit match bonus
The popular deposit match bonus is becoming harder to find at legal Illinois online sportsbooks because the up-front cost for the operator is steep. A deposit match bonus equates to guaranteed funds for new players based on the amount of their first deposit.
So, your classic 100% deposit match bonus up to $1,000 would take a $1,000 deposit and double that player’s bankroll to $2,000, costing the operator $1,000 to convert a new player. A 50% deposit match up to $500 on a $500 initial deposit would kick in $250 for a bankroll of $750 to start for a new player. Deposit match bonuses are not impacted if your first bet wins, loses, or draws; the bonus funds are credited to your account simply by making a deposit.
Bonus bet offer
Bonus bets, or 'bet & get' offers, have become increasingly popular over the last 12 months. They typically work like this: register a new account, make a minimum deposit, and place your first wager (which usually needs to be at least $5 or $10). Once you've done that, the sportsbook will credit your account with a handful of bonus bets, often in the $100 to $200 range.
These bonus bets cannot be cashed out, but are a great way to make additional wagers and get a feel for your new sportsbook without having to wager more of your own money. Make sure you read and understand any terms and conditions first, though, since sometimes there are additional requirements (like having to win your first bet), odds restrictions, or short expiration windows.
First bet offer
Sign-up bonuses labeled first bet offer s are attractive because their peak value is higher than most modest welcome bonuses. However, the only reason operators have to pay out first bet bonuses is if, and only if, your first bet settles as a loss. If you win, you’re happy you won, and the operator is glad they don’t have to shell out account credits.
For example, Caesars frequently boasts a $1,000 first bet offer deal. So, if you wager $1,000 on the Chicago Cubs to win their next game and they lose, Caesars will credit your account the entire $1,000 to try another bet.
Referral bonus
Once you've claimed a welcome bonus, many sportsbooks will offer additional ongoing promotions to keep you interested. A common one is a referral bonus, where you can be rewarded for getting your friends to create an account with your sportsbook of choice.
You'll use a unique sign-up code or link, which you'll pass along to your friends. If they use your referral to make a new account and an initial deposit, you'll get a small perk from the sportsbook. It's usually $20 to $50 worth, in the form of a bonus bet or some cashback rewards.
In our opinion, these sites have the best sportsbook referral bonus you can claim.
Illinois online sportsbooks
Most casual bettors living outside of Illinois may need to learn that when sports betting became legal in June 2019, the bill stated that out-of-state operators must wait 18 months before entering the market. This allowed Chicago-based BetRivers to launch the first online sportsbook in Illinois before the likes of DraftKings and FanDuel entered the fray.
Today there are ten online sportsbook operators in the state, after bet365 launched in March of 2025. Even though Circa doesn't offer a welcome promo like the other books, all ten have dedicated mobile sports betting apps for download on iOS and Android devices. While each is worthy of consideration, we're calling out their unique calling cards and top features.
Illinois online and mobile sportsbooks
| Online sportsbook and betting app | Best known for |
| BetMGM | “King of Parlays” |
| BetRivers | First online sportsbook in Illinois |
| Caesars | Huge four-figure welcome bonus |
| Circa Sports | High limits, great odds |
| DraftKings | Industry leading sports betting company |
| theScore Bet | Setting custom lines |
| FanDuel | Top-rated sports betting app |
| Fanatics | FanCash Rewards program |
| Hard Rock Bet | Daily odds boosts |
Illinois betting resources
With some sportsbooks offering new players guaranteed bonus bets and Caesars and BetMGM kicking in up to four figures plus rewards points, it’s easy for Illinois sports betting enthusiasts to get tunnel vision when it comes to sign-up promos. However, the goal should be the best-informed sports bettor, not the person who falls in love without doing homework.
We spend time building complementary resource guides to the best sportsbooks promos in Illinois, a more in-depth look at how sports betting bonuses work, and highlighting the best sportsbooks.
If you're curious about sports betting in other states, head over to our legal sports betting state tracker for all the latest updates.
Sports betting by category
It doesn't matter what sport or league is your favorite; there's a great sportsbook bonus waiting for you at any number of legal and licensed sportsbooks in your state. Here's a list of the best sportsbooks by category, to make your decisions even easier:
Responsible sports betting with Illinois promos
The Illinois Gaming Board regulates all forms of gaming in the state. In addition to ensuring the integrity and safety of those who engage in sports betting, the IGB also offers services for those seeking help for problem gambling.
Proceeds and a portion of the tax revenue collected from operators and sports bettors go towards these programs to educate, prevent and treat gambling addiction. Some of the resources available include:
- Self-exclusion programs that is a voluntary option for those who want to limit their exposure to casinos and sportsbooks, both retail and online.
- The Illinois Gaming Board Problem Gambling registry provides regular emails and courses on recognizing, treating, and preventing gambling problems before they get out of control.
- The Illinois Department of Human Services (IDHS) launched a website for those seeking assistance with their gambling.
IDHS helpline: 1-800-843-6154
National U.S. gambling helpline: 1-800-GAMBLER
With online sportsbooks offering so many glitzy promotions to new players, it’s easy to get caught up in the moment. However, practicing safe sports betting and protecting your bankroll is of the utmost importance to avoid the pitfalls of gambling addiction.
Sportsbook promos and bonuses in other regions
Sportsbook promos & bonuses in legal U.S. states
Sportsbook promos & bonuses in international regions
- Canada sportsbook promos (excluding Ontario)
Illinois sportsbook promos FAQs
What’s the best sports betting bonus in Illinois?
The best sports betting bonus in Illinois is subjective to the player because each person’s wants and needs differ. You might prefer a large first bet offer deal or an offer that includes guaranteed bonus bets for a much smaller initial investment. The choice is yours.
Which verified Illinois sportsbook promos are the best value?
The promo with the best value depends on your betting style. Experienced bettors may prefer a large first bet offer deal, so they can try to go big on their first wager. Rookie customers, on the other hand, might get more value from guaranteed bonus bets, which let them make a handful of extra wagers without using more of their own money.
How old do I need to bet on sports in Illinois?
You must be 21 or older to wager on sports in Illinois at retail, online sportsbooks, and sports betting apps.
Do all Illinois sportsbooks provide sports betting promo codes?
No, some Illinois sportsbooks do not require any promo code to redeem welcome bonuses or promotions. However, some books – BetRivers, BetMGM, and Caesars – do have verified bonus codes that will activate the welcome for you. See our table above for the latest codes.
What are the playthrough requirements on legal online sportsbooks in Illinois?
Playthrough requirements on welcome bonuses and ongoing promotions vary based on the operator at legal online sportsbooks in Illinois. We encourage customers to read the terms and conditions before signing up with an online sportsbook. Operators provide a link to T&Cs in the promotional advertisement, which typically includes details on playthrough requirements up-front.
How many sign-up bonuses can I claim in Illinois?
New players can earn one sign-up bonus at nine of Illinois's ten legal online sportsbooks and sports betting apps (Circa Sports is the exception). Operators will only allow you to create up to one account to cash in on multiple welcome bonuses. This is considered fraudulent and why most operators require a social security number tied to your account to prevent various accounts from being verified.