Best Real Money Online Casinos in Illinois 2024 – Compare IL Online Gambling Sites & Apps: Claim $13,000+ In Welcome Bonuses

From Bloomington to Chicago, Illinois, with its riverboat casinos, has always been a popular haven for gamblers – but is gambling legal in Illinois? Yes, Illinois is a gambling-friendly state with a good choice of both land and river-based casinos and an ever-growing number of online casino sites and betting apps.

Online gambling has increased in the state because gamblers leverage offshore online casinos. In this guide, we present, a list of the best Illinois online casinos ranked by bonus, variety of games, software providers, customer service, and safety.

Best Illinois Online Casinos and Apps

Latest News on Casino Legislation in Illinois

Illinois gambling rules and regulations date back to the 1920s when they were first developed to allow for the legalization of horse racing. Multiple lotteries have since been permitted along with the Riverboat Gambling Act of 1990.

This act made it permissible to operate commercial casinos on boats outside Lake Michigan and in counties with more than three million population. There is no doubt that the gambling legislation in Illinois has an extensive history, but listed below are the latest developments you should know about.

• October 21, 2022 – According to reports, Caesars Entertainment Incorporated spent almost $4 million renovating its riverboat Grand Victoria Casino Elgin facility in Illinois.
• October 18, 2022 – Bally’s Corporation has signed multi-project agreements with two construction labor unions in preparation for its upcoming $1.7 billion Bally’s Chicago complex in Illinois.
• May 24, 2022 – Illinois governing body reject the temporary Golden Nuggets Restraining Order that would have stopped the city of Danville from completing the Golden Nugget Danville Property Project.
• May 24, 2022 – Bally Chicago’s casino plans approved by the Special City Counsel. The committee consists of hand-picked chairs by the Mayor.
• May 6, 2022 – The Mayor of Illinois selects Bally as a new casino license holder in the city.
• March 11, 2022 – Preliminary approval was provided by Illinois regulators for Golden Nugget Danville.
• March 4, 2022 – PointsBet ink a deal with NBC Sports Chicago and Philadelphia to ensure a live-game sports experience for its customers.
• January 11, 2022 – Illinois accomplishes a record-breaking sports revenue of over $78 million since its legalization in 2020.
• December 21, 2021 – Illinois racing board rejects operation requests made by Arlington International Racecourse to expand into the state.
• December 8, 2021 – The sports betting proposition made by Chicago stalls because of the opposition that rose due to low rates.
• November 9, 2021 – It was recorded that the Illinois sports betting handle settled for under $60o million for the month of September.
• July 22, 2021 – The city-wide prohibition made on sports betting in Chicago was under consideration to be lifted by the politicians.
• June 23, 2021 – Chicago Bears partner with BetsRiver.com. The deal was to become the official sportsbook franchisee for the NFL team.
• August 26, 2020: First mobile betting apps launched.
• June 19, 2019: The first legal sports bets are taken at Rivers Casino.
• March 2019: Online sports betting in Illinois becomes legal.
• 2009: Local bars and venues allowed to host Illinois Lottery terminals.

The Best Illinois Online Casinos and Apps List 2024

We’ve looked at dozens of online Illinois Casinos to bring you the 10 top online casinos in Illinois for 2024. Keep scrolling as we review our top 5 Illinois online casinos in more detail further below…

1. Wild Casino – Best overall online casino for blackjack
2. TG.Casino – Exclusively available on Telegram
3. Bovada – Best real money online casino in Illinois for crypto bonuses
4. Everygame – Home of some of the biggest jackpots
5. BetOnline – The best virtual casino experience
6. BetUS – Best Illinois live dealer casino
7. Slots LV – Best Illinois online casino for live dealer games
8. Lucky Block – Quick registration with no KYC hassle
9. Super Slots – Clean design with the best user interface
10. Lucky Creek – Best for poker tournaments

Best Real Money IL Online Casino Sites and Apps Reviewed

Now that you’ve seen our list of the 10 best online casinos in Illinois, let’s dig in with reviews of our top 6 picks and their advantages.

1. Wild Casino – Best Real Money Online Casino in Illinois for Blackjack

Wild Casino has a jungle theme and is a relatively new online casino owned by the same company behind the major BetOnline and SportsBetting.ag sites. These brands have a long history in the online gambling industry and can be relied upon to provide a safe and secure casino environment.

Wild Casino majors in blackjack offering 11 different blackjack tables with all the variants. You can also play roulette, keno, craps, baccarat and video poker here too.

The selection of live dealer games, with the software provided by Betsoft & Nucleus Gaming, is particularly impressive. It’s split into two live casino lobbies called Red and Black. The red section has 6 live games running 24/7 and the black section has over ten tables for poker, roulette, and baccarat.

There is a fantastic welcome bonus available up to a maximum of $5,000 based on your first 5 deposits. The first is a 250% deposit bonus up to $1,000 so you only need to deposit $400 to claim the full bonus. This can be followed by a further 4 deposit bonuses of 100% up to $1,000. These bonuses come with a 35x wagering requirement so you’ll have to be prepared to play for some time if you go large.

There are 15 different deposit methods ranging from Visa & Mastercard to cryptocurrencies and money orders. The minimum deposit is $20 and you will need to use the promo code WILD250 when depositing to claim the first bonus and WILD100 for any subsequent bonuses.

 

2. TG.Casino – Exclusively available on Telegram

TG Casino is a crypto gambling platform available on Telegram. New players to the site can claim the house welcome offer, which is an instant 200% deposit bonus of up to 10 ETH.

If you are interested in table games, but also play top notch slots sometimes, TG Casino is for you. Here you will find dozens of virtual blackjack and roulette games. TG Casino currently hosts over 300 games from 50+ game software suppliers.

TG Casino’s games library might be impressive, but we particularly like how they handle payments. Full crypto support is the only way to describe it. You can also use TG casino tokens to settle your affairs.

Transactions are processed quicker here too. Who doesn’t want instant pay outs when playing online? Furthermore, no transaction fees apply when depositing or withdrawing crypto.

 

3. Bovada Casino – Best Online Casino for Bonuses & Promotions

Bovada is one of the top dogs when it comes to reputable offshore betting companies and is available to bettors in many states including Illinois. It is also one of the best online casinos in Arizona.

They are one of the best gambling sites in Illinois when it comes to player bonuses with very generous welcome offers.

During our Bovada online casino review, we noticed there was a new customer deposit bonus of up to $1,000 with 25x wagering, allowing you to try out some of their 300+ slots and classic casino games. Use code CAWELCOME100 when depositing to claim.

The good news is you can claim this welcome bonus offer up to three times! Therefore, with your initial three deposits, you can get up to $3,000 in new player bonuses.

You can claim even more deposit bonuses for using Bitcoin, with up to a maximum bonus of $3,750 available over your first three deposits. Use code BTCCWB1250 to claim your first Bovada Bitcoin welcome bonus of $1,250 today and use the Bovada code BTC2NDCWB for the second and third deposits for 2 further $1,250 bonuses.

 

4. Everygame – Best Online Casino in Illinois with Groundbreaking Bonuses

Everygame has been in existence since 2021 and it is now recognized as an excellent offshore online gambling site for players in the US, including Illinois. The casino has a generous $5,555 welcome package and an extensive collection of fan-favorite games.

Their library is filled with every kind of top casino game for players across 50 states in the US, including games like slots, progressive jackpots, roulette, poker, blackjack, baccarat, video poker, and more. Everygame has quickly established its stance in the online casino game market by ensuring players are satisfied with the quality of service offered.

Everygame also has a noteworthy payments system that supports over a dozen currencies including cryptocurrency. New players have access to get a 125% match bonus up to $1,000 alongside the initial deposit and receive a 150% match bonus on the second deposit, up to $1,500.

 

5. BetOnline Casino – Best for Virtual Casino Experience

BetOnline’s brand new, cutting-edge live virtual casino offers a wide range of table and card games such as Hold ‘Em, Keno, and Blackjack.

This online casino, which accepts all players of legal age from Illinois, is the first of its type, with cutting-edge visuals, regular Blackjack tournaments, and also offers cashback on gambling losses.

Every single month at the BetOnline casino there are $1,000,000 in Daily Tournaments prizes are up for grabs, including $35,000 every day! Everyone has a chance to win a piece of the pie with two daily free entry tournaments.

 

Discover Our In-Depth Casino Reviews and Get the Best Casino Bonus Codes:

More on Gambling in Illinois…

Learn about all types of online gambling in Illinois through our expert guides below:

• Illinois Sports Betting

Top Illinois Online Casinos and Apps – Bonus & Games Comparison

Let’s take a closer look and compare the best Illinois online casinos in terms of bonus offers, games, and more:

Discover More With Our Selection of Casino Guides

Comparing the Best Sites for Casino Apps in Illinois

The rise of mobile technology has transformed how people engage with various forms of entertainment, including casino gaming. With the advent of mobile casino platforms, residents of Illinois can now enjoy their favorite casino games conveniently from the palm of their hands. However, with many options available, choosing the best casino app that meets your specific needs can be overwhelming. Let us help you select the best mobile casino site for your requirements.

Legal and Regulatory Considerations

Before delving into the world of casino apps, it is crucial to ensure their legality and compliance with Illinois’ gambling regulations. Check if the site is licensed and regulated by reputable authorities such as the Illinois Gaming Board. Legitimate casino apps will prominently display their licensing information, assuring users of their trustworthiness and adherence to legal requirements. Thus, we have included a list of the top casinos which are safe to use.

Game Variety and Quality

The diversity and quality of casino games are significant factors to consider. Look for apps that provide a wide range of games like slots, poker, roulette, blackjack, and more – check out our guide for all the best online poker sites in Illinois. Additionally, reputable software providers ensure fair gameplay and immersive graphics. The variety is especially helpful for users prone to boredom fast. Selecting a mobile casino like BC Game will give you 4000+ game options.

User-Friendly Interface

A user-friendly interface is crucial for an enjoyable and hassle-free gaming experience. The app should have an intuitive design with easy navigation, enabling you to browse games, make deposits and withdrawals, access promotions, and contact customer support effortlessly. If you are looking for a super interactive platform, make sure to check out the Everygame mobile casino site.

Bonuses and Promotions

One of the advantages of playing casino games through apps is the availability of enticing bonuses and promotions. Many casino apps offer attractive welcome bonuses, free spins, deposit matches, loyalty programs, and regular promotions. However, be mindful of the terms and conditions associated with these offers, including wagering requirements and time limits. Wild Casino offers one of the best bonuses and promotions for its users. The sign-up bonus allows you to withdraw a whopping sum of up to $5000.

Payment Methods and Security

Before you start playing, make security a critical factor and ensure that the app supports convenient and secure payment methods for deposits and withdrawals. Look for apps that accept popular options such as credit/debit cards, e-wallets, bank transfers, and prepaid cards. It is essential to prioritize apps that utilize robust encryption technology to safeguard your personal and financial information. For example- Lucky Block offers fast and reliable payouts and is best for using cryptocurrencies.

Customer Support

Reliable customer support is crucial when dealing with any online service, including casino apps. Look for apps that offer multiple channels of customer support, such as live chat, email, and telephone. The availability of 24/7 customer support ensures that you can seek assistance whenever you encounter any issues or have any questions. For example- you can always count on the Bovada customer support team to provide speedy assistance to your problems.

User Reviews and Ratings

Before finalizing your decision, it is important that you conduct some research of your own. You can read user reviews and ratings of the casino app you are considering. These insights can provide valuable information about the app’s performance, reliability, and overall user satisfaction. Look for consistently positive reviews and high ratings.

Choosing the best casino app in Illinois requires careful consideration of various factors, including legality, game variety, user interface, bonuses, payment methods, security, and customer support. By following this comprehensive guide, you can confidently select a reputable and enjoyable casino app that aligns with your preferences and provides a safe and rewarding gaming experience.

How to Choose the Best Casino Apps in Illinois?

With a plethora of casinos operating, choosing the best casino app in Illinois can turn out to be a painstaking ordeal. Here are some standards and essential elements you must look into while selecting the best casino apps in Illinois and ensure an enjoyable and secure gaming experience. We’ll now outline the criteria for choosing the top casino apps in Illinois.

Promotions

When selecting a casino app, carefully examining the available bonuses is essential. Take the time to evaluate the bonuses offered, such as welcome, deposit, and free spins. Additionally, consider the maximum claimable amount for each bonus and pay attention to the associated terms and conditions. By thoroughly reviewing these aspects, you can gain a comprehensive understanding of the bonuses featured on the casino apps and make an informed decision.

Game Library

The variety and quality of games a casino app offers greatly contribute to the overall gaming experience. Deep dive into the app’s game library and assess the quantity and caliber of slot games available. Look for diverse themes, features, and progressive jackpots to suit your preferences.

Additionally, consider the availability of popular table games like blackjack, roulette, and poker and live dealer options for an immersive gaming experience. Furthermore, it is worth considering the reputation of the software providers behind the games – renowned providers tend to offer high-quality and fair gameplay.

The Mobile Experience

With the increasing popularity of gaming on mobile devices, ensuring that a casino app is optimized for mobile play is crucial. Evaluate the accessibility and functionality of the app across various mobile devices, including smartphones and tablets. Check if the app is available for download as a dedicated mobile app or if it offers a seamless experience through a mobile browser.

Look for responsive design, intuitive navigation, and smooth performance on mobile platforms. A well-designed and user-friendly mobile experience will allow you to enjoy your favorite casino games anytime and anywhere without compromising quality.

Payment Options

The security and reliability of payment options a casino app offers are of utmost importance. Analyze the available deposit and withdrawal methods, considering factors such as transaction speed and any associated fees. Look for various payment options that accommodate various preferences, including credit/debit cards, bank transfers, e-wallets, and even cryptocurrencies. Each payment method should offer a secure and encrypted environment to protect financial information. Additionally, consider the withdrawal processing time, as prompt payouts are a tell-tale sign of a reputable casino app.

Read More About the Different Payment Methods Through Our Payment-specific Guides:

Customer Support

When selecting a casino app, it is crucial to consider the level of customer support provided. Evaluate the availability of different communication channels such as live chat, email, and phone support. Check if the customer support team is responsive and readily available to assist with any queries or concerns that may arise during your gaming experience.

Ideally, the support team should be accessible 24/7 to cater to the needs of players across different time zones. Prompt and helpful customer support ensures a smooth and enjoyable gaming experience, knowing that assistance is readily available when needed.

License and Security

Before choosing a casino app, it’s a good idea to verify its license and security measures. Scrutinize the authenticity and validity of the gambling license held by the app. Research the reputation and reliability of the licensing bodies that have issued the license to ensure they are reputable and hold high standards.

Additionally, assess the security protocols and measures implemented by the casino app to safeguard player information and financial transactions. Look for industry-standard encryption technology, such as SSL (Secure Socket Layer), to protect sensitive data from unauthorized access.

Can You Gamble Online in Illinois?

An online Illinois gambling site provides a wide array of gambling options. More than just a few slots, Illinois residents can access huge sportsbooks, immersive live dealer games, and incredibly varied table games that they’d never find on an Illinois riverboat.

Sports Betting

Residents from the Land of Lincoln who like a punt have been enjoying the services of an Illinois online gambling site for years. You couldn’t place a sports wager in Illinois until 2019 and now that they can, residents still love and trust Illinois online gambling sites.

That’s because, for so many years, it was the only way you could back the Cubs against the White Sox in the Prairie State. Whether you love the Bulls or received a hot tip about the Bears, Illinois online gambling sites like Bovada offer tons of markets covering every major US sport you can think of.

Table Games

Advanced technology has allowed the best Illinois online gambling sites the privilege of offering 24/7 table gaming with unlimited spaces. There is no shortage of diversity either – just head to MyBookie and you can enjoy Pai Gow Poker and War. You’ll find plenty of casino classics at an Illinois online gambling site too – just look at XBet, where players can enjoy a selection of baccarat, blackjack, and roulette games.

Live Dealer

Take a trip to a few of the riverboat casinos in Illinois and you’ll very quickly note a lot of the same table games. We’re talking basic blackjack or roulette – not much in terms of variations. This is not an issue at an Illinois online gambling site like Wild Casino or Ignition – try unique live dealer variants such as Baltic or Russian blackjack.

BetOnline won’t let Illinois residents be left out of a game and offers unlimited bet behinds on many live dealer games – meaning you can always get involved, even if the table is full.

Specialty Games

Why wait for the Powerball numbers when an Illinois online gambling site has so many Lottery and Bingo games on offer? Over at Wild Casino, players can enjoy over 20 specialty games including Millionaire Jackpot, Keno Fortunes, and Keno Vegas. At BetOnline, Illinois locals can access tons of scratch cards and jackpot lottery games like Keno Megaways.

How to Get Started With Casino Apps in Illinois

If you’re interested in relishing casino games in Illinois, there are a few important steps to remember. It’s important to note that online casino apps are currently not legal in the state. However, Illinois residents can still enjoy casino gaming through offshore casino sites, which provide a safe and exciting experience. These sites offer a variety of games, including roulette, online slots, blackjack, and live dealer games. To get started, simply choose a reputable offshore casino site like Wild Casino and access their website through your preferred mobile browser.

The registration process for downloading an IL betting app is straightforward and user-friendly, requiring some basic information like a unique username and password and personal details. Once registered, you can make your first deposit using secure payment options and take advantage of exclusive welcome bonuses. With your account funded, you can explore the extensive game library and start playing your favorite casino games at your convenience.

What Games Are Available With Online Casino Apps

When it comes to online casino apps in Illinois, a wide variety of games are available to cater to different preferences and provide an exciting gambling experience. Slots take the spotlight, with top casino apps like Wild Casino and Everygame offering a vast collection of slot games, featuring various themes and engaging gameplay. If you’re seeking the largest selection of slots, Las Atlantis stands out as the go-to option.

In addition to slots, these casino apps also offer other popular games. For table game enthusiasts, Wild Casino provides options such as poker and blackjack, while Bovada is known for its daily poker and blackjack tournaments, making it an excellent choice for competitive players.

Moreover, live dealer gaming has become a significant attraction in online gambling, delivering an authentic casino experience. Casino apps like Wild Casino, Lucky Creek, and Ignition boast impressive live casinos in Illinois, featuring games such as:

Advantages of Online Gambling Sites Illinois

As Illinois gambling laws evolved over the last decade or so, offshore online gambling sites have continued to provide quality gambling options to Illinois residents. When it wasn’t possible to bet on the Cubs in Illinois, offshore sites were the answer. Now, with legal sports betting in Illinois and 10 casinos across the state, what are the advantages of sticking with Illinois online gambling?

Land-based operators can never offer the same level of casino bonuses as an Illinois online gambling site. Sure, you see some slot free spins and maybe a free dinner or two, but never a matched deposit worth up to $1,000! It’s hard to look past the sheer convenience of an online operation too. Located in the palm of your hand at all times and the gaming tables are almost always free.

While land-based operations have certainly come a long way in recent years, residents won’t be surprised by any of the offerings at the tables – typical classic casino games with no variations or unique rules. However, offshore Illinois online gambling sites provide a great deal of variety with most sites providing gamblers with table and live casino games that feature unique rules and varied formats.

Key Facts About Online Gambling in Illinois

• Online casino sites are illegal in Illinois. This means that the only sites where players in the state can sign up are based offshore.
• Offshore casino sites possess licenses from relevant jurisdictions to ensure that you are playing on a reputable site.
• You must be over the age of 21 in order to gamble on offshore casino sites. if you are under 21, then you will be breaking the law if you attempt to do so.

Payment Methods at Illinois Online Casinos in Comparison

Not everyone chooses to bank the same way. It’s important to have options and Illinois online gambling sites boast a myriad of unique banking options for their customers. The best online gambling sites in Illinois will offer a good variety and cryptocurrencies have become rather commonplace.

There are a number of popular payment methods for Illinois customers, and most will likely be familiar. These are the banking options you will most commonly see at the best Illinois online gambling platforms:

Some casino bonuses won’t let Illinois residents use Skrill or NETELLER, but cryptocurrencies are the fastest and most reliable banking option. The best online Illinois gambling sites will have a number of crypto options and typically offer:

Next, we will examine the various payment methods available at each of our top casinos along with information on payout times and any transaction fees.

Read More About Different Payment Methods:

What Games Can You Play at an IL Online Casino?

Most modern online casinos in Illinois provide all the games you would expect to find at your local retail casino and a lot more besides! In this next section, we will look at the types of games available to Illinois gamblers and the best places to find them.

Blackjack

If you enjoy playing Blackjack then you will want a casino with plenty of variety and live dealer games for that real-life casino experience. After checking out the best Illinois online casinos, Wild Casino came out on top for Blackjack.

They have 11 different blackjack tables covering popular variants such as Pirate 21, Super 21, and Multi-Hand Blackjack. The are also several live dealer varieties available 24/7 which include Baltic Blackjack and Russian Blackjack.

Roulette

Another long-running and popular casino game is Roulette. Nothing gets casino players more excited than the sound of a ball spinning around a roulette table.

You will find roulette available at all online casinos but Wild Casino really stands out for roulette fans. They offer 32 different roulette games with 15 of them available to play live.

Poker

Many new players prefer to play online poker over other games and you’ll have no problem finding a real money poker game at Illinois online casinos. Most of the casinos we reviewed offer 3-card poker, Texas Hold’em, and video poker but online casinos such as BetOnline Casino even offer live poker tournaments with cash prizes.

There are also other poker-inspired table games at Everygame including Caribbean Hold’Em, Caribbean Stud, Tri Card Poker, Let ‘Em Ride, and Pai Gow Poker; each game offers a unique spin on traditional table poker.

Baccarat

Baccarat is also well covered at most online casinos in Illinois. At some of the better gambling sites, you will be able to find different versions of the game, including live dealer options.

One such option can be found at Wild Casino which also happens to have the best bonus you’ll find at any Baccarat online casino. It consists of a 250% first time deposit match up to $1,000 and subsequent matches up to $5,000

Other Casino Games

In addition to the staple casino games such as blackjack, roulette, and poker, there are many other kinds of online casino games that can be found in online casinos in IL. These include:

• Craps
• Keno
• Bingo
• Roll the dice
• Spin the wheel
• Monopoly Live

Playing Live Dealer Games at Illinois Casinos Online

If you want to add a bit of realism to your online casino experience there are always plenty of live dealer games to choose from 24/7 with live dealers and croupiers happy to take your chips with a smile, available to play in the comfort of your own home.

Live dealer games are one of the most popular games to play amongst casino players in Illinois. Bettors can watch the croupier’s every move and avoid the traditional RNG (Random Number Generator) normally associated with these online casino games.

During our review of the best live online casinos in Illinois, we found that Wild Casino offered the most live dealer games available including the following varieties:

• Blackjack VIP
• European Blackjack
• Casino Hold ‘em
• American Roulette
• European Roulette
• Baltic Blackjack
• Russian Blackjack

Explore Our Casino Game Guides:

Claiming a Bonus in an Online Casino App

As the U.S. online casino market continues to rise – in 2021, the market size of the global casinos and online gambling industry reached $262 billion – the competition in getting your business remains very competitive, hence why there are so many different bonuses out there to choose from.

When it comes to online casino apps in Illinois, players can expect a variety of enticing bonuses and promotions designed to enhance their gaming experience. These bonuses are available year-round, unlike traditional brick-and-mortar casinos. Let’s explore some common bonuses players can claim when using casino apps in Illinois.

Match Deposit Bonus

As a way to welcome new players, casino apps offer a match deposit bonus. The operator will double their account balance when a player makes their first deposit. This bonus is available to players of all ranks and is an excellent incentive to get started with online gaming in Illinois.

Reload Promotions

Once you’ve made your initial deposits and started playing at a new casino, you’ll often be eligible for reload promotions. These bonuses are awarded when you make a specified deposit within a specific time frame, such as 24 hours, a week, or a month. For example, you may receive a 40% bonus on your deposit of at least $100 every Tuesday.

Money-Back Specials

Unlike traditional casinos that only offer comps to high spenders, Illinois casino apps provide flexible promotions such as cashback. Even if you’ve spent just $100 within a week, you can enjoy a money-back bonus, typically around 10% of your aggregate losses for the specified period.

Loyalty Bonus

Online casino apps in Illinois make it easy to earn loyalty points. The casino will start rewarding you for your gameplay by simply opting in. Points can be earned for simple tasks like confirming your email address. As you progress through the rewards ladder, the incentives become more enticing, rivaling land-based casinos.

How to Play at a Real Money Online Casino Mobile Site & App in Illinois

Wondering how to go about making your first bet on a casino app? With the rise of casino apps, players can now enjoy a wide range of games, bonuses, and promotions directly from their mobile devices. If you’re ready to embark on your online casino journey, we’ll now walk you through a simple 5-step process to start playing using casino apps:

Step 1: Choose a Reputable Casino App

The first step to playing online using casino apps is to select a reputable and trustworthy platform. One such example is Wild Casino, known for its high-quality gaming experience and reliable services. Visit the official website or download the app.

Step 2: Create an Account

Once you’ve chosen the casino app, the next step is to create an account. Click on the “Sign Up” or “Register” button, and you’ll be prompted to provide some personal information. This typically includes your email address, name, date of birth, and password/username combination.

Step 3: Verify Your Account

After completing the registration process, you’ll be required to verify your account. This step is crucial for security purposes and to comply with regulatory requirements. You’ll receive an SMS or email with a verification link or code. Follow the instructions to verify your account and gain full access to the casino app.

Step 4: Make a Deposit

Navigate to the cashier section within the app. Select your preferred method, enter the required details, and specify the deposit amount. Follow the prompts to complete the transaction securely.

Step 5: Choose Your Game and Start Playing

Browse through the game library of the casino app and choose your preferred game category. Click on a game to launch it and enjoy the immersive experience provided by Wild Casino and other reputable platforms.

Is Online Gambling Legal in Illinois?

So, is online gambling legal in Illinois? Like many US states, it is a legal grey area. Gambling in Illinois is covered under the Illinois Compiled Statutes and currently allows land-based casino gaming. The legislation states that Illinois residents must be a minimum of 18 years of age to play lottery games and 21 for any casino-style games.

Like some other states, the only online gambling law in Illinois regarding casino play refers to operating an online casino within the state. Under section 28 of the Illinois Statutes, it is illegal to operate an unlicensed real money online casino in Illinois. This Illinois online gambling law is very specific and does not specify playing at offshore online gambling sites in any way. Essentially, there is no law prohibiting playing at an online casino or sportsbook based outside of Illinois.

Online Sports Gambling in Illinois

Laws regarding online sports gambling in Illinois are far clearer but is online sports gambling legal in Illinois? The answer is now a resounding yes. In 2020, the state legalized online sports betting with the passing of the Illinois Gambling Act 2019. This Illinois online gambling bill also saw the number of available casino licenses double.

By August 2021, the Illinois Gaming Board published 3 online-only sports betting licenses that will cost $20 million but it cannot be confirmed if any entity is yet to apply for such a license.

Offshore Gambling

Illinois online gambling laws make no mention of offshore play, and, to date, no Illinois resident has ever been pursued for playing at an offshore gambling site. Offshore operations are Illinois online gambling sites that are based outside of the US. They hold casino licenses from reputable regulators such as the Malta Gaming Authority and are deemed safe by many jurisdictions.

These Illinois online gambling platforms offer both sportsbooks and casinos that feature games provided by many different software providers. Illinois residents can play at an offshore site knowing their money is secured and that their successful wagers will always be paid out.

Illinois Casino Apps

There are several legal online gambling options provided by the Illinois Gaming Board (IGB), but as it stands, online casino apps are not considered legal in the state of Illinois.

While legal sports betting sites can be accessed in the state, the legalization of Illinois mobile casinos has yet to be established. There have been no indications or discussions about the potential legalization of casino apps in Illinois, so enthusiasts of Illinois casinos will need to be patient and wait for any developments.

However, there are alternative options available. You can explore our list of top offshore sites, which are easily accessible and provide a safe gaming environment. These platforms often offer a superior online casino gaming experience compared to even the best-regulated apps in other US states. Remember, no one has ever been prosecuted for playing at these offshore casinos. So, there’s nothing to worry about.

The Minimum Illinois Gambling Age

To gamble in Illinois, you must be at least 21 years of age. This applies to any land-based institutions or offshore gambling sites.

Is Online Poker Legal in Illinois?

Online poker, as with online casinos, is illegal in Illinois. However, if you do wish to play competitive real money poker in Illinois, you can visit one of four licensed poker rooms.

Legal Mobile Casino Apps in Illinois

Here are the current legal online casino apps in Illinois and their affiliated casino and racetrack partners shown in brackets…

• BetRivers (Rivers Casino)
• DraftKings (Casino Queen)
• FanDuel Sportsbook & Horse Racing (Fairmount Park)
• Caesars, formerly William Hill (Grand Victoria)
• PointsBet (Hawthorne Racecourse)
• Barstool Sportsbook (Hollywood Casino Joliet)

And here are our recommended online casino apps which are offshore but available to players in Illinois and offer even better bonuses and promotions.

1. Wild Casino – Best app for blackjack
2. Lucky Block – Best Telegram based casino
3. BetUS – Best app for crypto deposits

Illinois Gambling Revenues

Gambling in Illinois is big business. Illinois came third in handling for the month of July 2021, behind only New Jersey and Nevada, and is second in total revenue, trailing only the Garden State. With over $3.6 billion wagered and $292.6 million in revenue, the Prairie State ranks third and second respectively in both categories for the year.

Future of Online Casinos in Illinois

Sports betting and land-based casino gambling are now legal in Illinois. Though this does not apply yet to online casinos within the state, which are still outlawed, this does mean that the state is further along the process than many others.

That is because online sports betting is usually the first form of online gambling proffered for legalization by state senators. As a result, online casinos may well be next on the bill, though there is not yet a timeline for when there may be an attempt to legalize them.

Land-based Casinos in Illinois: Illinois Casino Locations

Are you interested in gambling in land casinos in Illinois instead? In the next section, we present the top land-based casinos in Illinois, their address, and their advantages.

Hollywood Casino & Hotel Joliet

Address: 777 Hollywood Blvd, Joliet, IL 60436

The Hollywood Casino Joliet is one of the most modern and well-known casinos in the Chicago area.

Overlooking the Des Plaines River, the Hollywood Casino Joliet is a stunning art deco structure with cutting-edge slot machines and 18 gaming tables, 1,100 video slots as well as a retail sportsbook operated by Barstool Sports. It also boasts 100 luxurious hotel rooms and 80 RV sites.

Par-A-Dice Hotel Casino

Address: 21 Blackjack Blvd, East Peoria, IL 61611

The Par-A-Dice Casino is one of the best casinos in Illinois and has around 200 luxury rooms and a five-star restaurant.

With 1000 slot machines, 25 poker tables, baccarat, roulette, and blackjack, there is also a friendly bar with live music for patrons to enjoy.

The FanDuel IL sportsbook is available if you want to place a sports wager within the casino.

Rivers Casino Des Plaines

Address: 3000 S River Rd, Des Plaines, IL 60018

The hottest gaming activity in Chicago can probably be found at Rivers Casino. The most jackpot slots and the highest table game payouts can be found at Rivers Casino.

You won’t find a better gaming option in Illinois no matter what your game is.

If you’re a sports fan then the in-house BetRivers Sportsbook will cater to your every need with it comes to sports betting.

Harrah’s Casino Joliet

Address: 151 N. Joliet St., Joliet, IL 60432

The Harrah’s Joliet Casino is a riverboat casino on the Des Plaines River’s east bank and is one of Illinois’ most popular gaming facilities.

The casino has a total gaming area of 40,000 square feet and boasts over 600 video slots and 31 tables where you can play blackjack, baccarat, roulette, craps, and more interesting games are available.

You can stay in one of the 200 rooms at the hotel and dine in one of the casino’s many bars and restaurants. You must be at least 21 years old and have a valid ID.

Jumer’s Casino & Hotel Rock Island

Address: 777 Jumer Drive, Rock Island, Illinois 61264

Owned by Bally’s this award-winning Illinois casino has one giant gaming floor providing over 42,000 square feet of gaming space with over 1,000 slot and video poker machines, 24 table games, live-action poker, and a high-limit slot room.

It is one of Illinois’ most populated land-based casinos. In a poll conducted by the Quad-City Times, Jumer’s was rated the best casino in the Quad Cities.

Jumer’s has four restaurants, one bar, and a 205-room hotel on the grounds. It’s open seven days a week from 7 am to 5 am. To enter the casino area, visitors must be at least 21 years old.

List of land-based casinos in Illinois

Tribal Casinos in Illinois

Unlike most states, no tribes possess an Indian Gaming Regulatory Act (IGRA)-recognized compact, so there are no tribal casinos based in Illinois. Given there are already plentiful options for land-based casinos in Illinois though, you will not be wanting for choice.

Casinos Near Chicago

Although there is currently only one legal land-based casino in Chicago, Illinois itself is home to a number of exciting options for gamblers. Next, we’ll take a look at a few of these casinos.

Casino Hotels for Players in Chicago

With the exception of the Argosy Casino in Alton, all of the other casinos listed above also offer hotels. Regular gamblers are often given free rooms and meals at top casino hotels as they have systems in place to identify deserving players and will reward them for their loyalty.

List of Other Casinos in Chicago Area

Next we’ll take a look at a few more options available to those living in the Chicago area.

Land-Based Casino vs IL Online Casino: Which one to choose?

Until fairly recently, if you wanted to legally gamble in Illinois it would usually involve a visit to one of its many riverboat and land-based casinos. But in the modern age of smartphones and Wifi, online casinos are now a very viable and enjoyable option in the Prairie State.

In Illinois, the majority of top land-based casinos are situated around the Chicago Bay area, so if you don’t want to travel or it’s simply too far away, using an online casino is the obvious and often better alternative. If you are a regular player, you can easily utilize multiple casinos to unlock more casino bonuses.

While you can never recreate the glamour of an actual visit to an Illinois casino or riverboat, online casinos are becoming more immersive with realistic smooth graphics, live dealers, and chat rooms.

Some online casinos such as BetOnline go even further providing full virtual casino experiences. Using an online casino in Illinois will also give you access to a lot more games than you will find at any regular, land-based casino in Illinois.

Illinois has yet to fully regulate all types of internet gambling but casino players from Illinois can still safely deposit and play for real money at offshore internet casinos. Internet gamblers playing at these sites are not prosecuted by law authorities though operating an online casino would be illegal.

Illinois Gambling Tax Rate

Illinois is one of nine states that has a flat tax on all gambling winnings/income – 4.95 percent in this case.

Conclusion: Best Real Money Online Casino App in Illinois

Casino gambling in Illinois mainly revolves around traditional riverboat casinos such as the Hollywood Casino Aurora and the Casino Queen. A much more convenient option is to use an online casino that accepts players from Illinois.

There are some legal online casino options in Illinois but you will have to use one of the state-licensed operators and complete your registration in person before you can start playing.

Our best overall pick is Wild Casino which offers a very generous 250% first time deposit match up to $1,000 + subsequent matches up to $5,000.

Responsible Gambling in Illinois

Your online gambling experience will swiftly deteriorate if you do not gamble responsibly in Illinois. Make sure to keep within your limits sot that any winnings are enjoyable, and any losses manageable.

If you do find gambling becoming more stressful than fun, you can contact a variety of resources in Illinois. The NCPG (National Council on Problem Gambling) has a dedicated page for residents in Illinois, which provides a number of helpful resources to ensure your problem is aided.

Illinois Legislative Resources

If you want to be kept informed about the legal processes surrounding gambling in Illinois, then the following resources will help.

• Illinois Government Portal
• Illinois State Legislative

Illinois Gambling Resources

If you are feeling that your gambling is getting to be a problem, or if you feel that someone close to you is struggling with gambling issues, then the following resources will be able to help.

• National Council for Problem Gambling
• Illinois Gaming Board

Illinois Online Casinos FAQ

Are online casinos legal in Illinois?

Gambling at state-licensed online casinos is legal in Illinois but it’s prohibited for persons residing in Illinois to conduct unauthorized online gambling companies, according to Section 28 of the Illinois code. However, the legislation makes no mention of fines for players who participate in online games, which is why most experts conclude that playing on offshore sites is totally legal for Illinois residents.

Can you gamble online at 18 in Illinois?

Yes, but you can only gamble on lottery games provided by the Illinois State Lottery and residents can enter Mega Millions, Lotto, and Powerball games. Even legal online gambling in Illinois is only allowed for those 21 years of age or older.

Will I face trouble for playing at online casinos in Illinois?

In Illinois, traditional forms of gambling like retail casinos, racetracks, and slot machines are legal, provided they have the necessary licenses. However, online casino gambling, including games like slots and blackjack, remains illegal within the state.

For those interested in playing these games online, reputable offshore gambling sites offer a viable alternative. While there have been discussions about potentially legalizing online casino games in Illinois through the new gambling bill (SB-0007), nothing has been finalized at this time. So, if you’re looking to enjoy online slots and blackjack, offshore platforms are currently the recommended option, but it’s essential to choose licensed and trustworthy websites such as Bovada or BetUS.

Can you gamble in Illinois right now?

If you are in Illinois and aged 21 or over, you are totally free to head to any of the 10 land-based casinos and enjoy all sorts of gambling. The same minimum Illinois gambling age applies for offshore casino play too.

Which online casino apps are the best?

Two of the best online casino apps available are Wild Casino and Las Atlantis. Wild Casino offers a wide range of games, generous bonuses, and a user-friendly interface, ensuring an enjoyable gambling experience. Las Atlantis’s sleek design, extensive game selection, and enticing promotions stand out.