Illinois Online Casinos
Online casinos in Illinois are not yet regulated, but players can still access secure offshore sites. These casinos provide a great alternative with large game libraries and fair bonus terms.
We’ve reviewed the best online casinos for players in the Prairie State, ensuring they are trustworthy and offer exciting games and bonuses. Learn about the legal landscape, how to play safely, and what makes these Illinois casinos unique.
| RANK | CASINO | BONUS | PAYOUT SPEED | LICENSED | TOTAL GAMES | SLOTS | OUR RATING | CLICK TO PLAY |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 |
DuckyLuck Casino |
BONUS 500% up to $7,500 | PAYOUT SPEED 1-5 Days | LICENSED Yes | TOTAL GAMES 749 | SLOTS 646 | OUR RATING 4 / 5 | Play Now |
| 2 |
Bovada Casino |
BONUS 125% up to $3,750 | PAYOUT SPEED 1-3 Days | LICENSED Yes | TOTAL GAMES 604 | SLOTS 435 | OUR RATING 4 / 5 | Play Now |
| 3 |
SlotsandCasino |
BONUS 500% up to $7,500 | PAYOUT SPEED 1-2 Days | LICENSED Yes | TOTAL GAMES 691 | SLOTS 594 | OUR RATING 3.9 / 5 | Play Now |
| 4 |
BetUS |
BONUS 150% up to $3,000 | PAYOUT SPEED 1-7 days | LICENSED Yes | TOTAL GAMES 491 | SLOTS 367 | OUR RATING 4.5 / 5 | Play Now |
| 5 |
Cafe Casino |
BONUS 350% up to $2,500 | PAYOUT SPEED 1-3 Days | LICENSED Yes | TOTAL GAMES 565 | SLOTS 384 | OUR RATING 3.5 / 5 | Play Now |
Table of Contents
Start playing at online casinos from Illinois
Best Illinois Casinos
We’ve handpicked the top online casinos for Illinois players, focusing on game variety, generous bonuses, and user-friendly platforms. These sites provide a secure and exciting alternative to state-regulated options. They offer everything from slots and table games to live dealer experiences.
Below, we highlight our two favorite picks and why they stand out for players in the Prairie State.
DuckyLuck – Best Illinois Online Casino Overall
DuckyLuck stands out for its diverse game selection and generous welcome bonus. The site offers over 500 slots, ranging from classic 3-reel games to interactive 5-reel titles with unique themes.
Illinois players can also explore table games like blackjack and roulette. The live dealer section adds interactive options, including blackjack and baccarat.
Their welcome bonus offers 500% up to $7,500 + 150 free spins. It is very generous and worth pursuing.
During our review, we appreciated the user-friendly interface, fast deposits, and responsive customer support.
Top Features
- Licensed In: Costa Rica
- Available Since: 2020
- Game Providers: Dragon Gaming, Betsoft, Unified
- Payout Time: 1-2 Days
Bovada – Most Versatile Online Casino
Bovada excels with its wide range of casino games and varied gaming offerings.
The site’s intuitive design makes it easy to find your favorite games, whether you’re playing for fun or aiming for real money wins.
Bovada complements its casino offerings with one of the best sportsbooks available. With over two decades of experience, this platform stands out for reliable payouts and flexible banking options, including crypto.
We also found the live dealer section particularly engaging, with professional hosts and smooth gameplay that rivals a land-based casino.
Top Features
- Licensed In: Gaming Control Anjouan – Union of the Comoros
- Available Since: 2011
- Game Providers: BGaming, Betsoft, Rival Gaming, Qora, RealTime Gaming (RTG), and Woohoo.
- Payout Time: 1-2 Days
Are Online Casinos Legal in Illinois?
Illinois has not legalized the operation of online casinos, making it illegal to run one within the state. However, players can access offshore casinos that operate under international licenses and accept IL residents.
Illinois law does not explicitly ban offshore sites, and no players have been prosecuted for using them.
The minimum legal age to play at Illinois casinos is 21+.
How We Pick Online Casinos for Illinois Players
When selecting the best online casinos for Illinois residents, we focus on the following criteria to ensure a secure experience.
Availability
We only recommend offshore platforms that accept players from Illinois.
Safety & Security
We prioritize casinos that hold reputable international licenses and use advanced encryption to protect your personal and financial information.
Payment Options
Reliable banking methods, including credit cards, cryptocurrency, and e-wallets, are essential. We also verify fast deposit and withdrawal processing times.
Game Variety
The top casinos feature a wide variety of slots, table games, video poker, and live dealer options, catering to all player preferences.
Customer Support
We only recommend casinos with responsive customer service available 24/7 through live chat, email, or phone.
Mobile Compatibility
Each site is tested for mobile-friendliness, ensuring a seamless experience on smartphones and tablets without requiring app downloads.
Illinois Online Casino Games
Online slots, poker, blackjack, and live dealer games are all popular among Illinois players. Offshore casino sites offer a wide selection of these games.
Online Slots
According to Google Trends, online slots are the most searched casino game in Illinois. Offshore platforms feature hundreds of options, including classic three-reel games, themed titles, progressive jackpots, and bonus-packed video slots.
Online Poker
Illinois players looking for poker action can explore offshore casinos with dedicated poker rooms.
Expect Texas Hold ’em, Omaha, and tournaments with varying stakes.
Frequent freerolls and daily tournaments make online poker accessible to all levels of play.
Blackjack
Offshore casinos offer a variety of blackjack games, from classic 3:2 tables to innovative side-bet variations.
Options for both beginners and high rollers are available, with table limits that suit any budget.
Live Dealer Games
Live dealer games bring the excitement of land-based casinos to your screen.
Offshore platforms feature popular games like blackjack, roulette, and baccarat, streamed in real-time by professional dealers.
Developers like Fresh Deck Studios ensure a seamless experience for Illinois players.
Illinois Casino Apps
Illinois does not currently have online casino apps, as online casino gaming is not legalized within the state. However, offshore platforms are accessible through browsers on smartphones and tablets.
These online casino sites don’t require downloads. Simply visit the site, log in, and play your preferred games.
Apps like FanDuel and DraftKings are available, but they are limited to sports betting and do not include casino gaming options.
Illinois Casino Legislation
The Prairie State offers several forms of gambling in the state, including casinos, horse racing, sports betting, and the lottery. Illinois state casino laws do not include regulated online casino gaming, so players utilize offshore sites to access services. Here’s the breakdown.
| Category | What You Need to Know |
|---|---|
| Online Casinos | Illinois has not yet legalized or regulated online casinos within the state, making it illegal to operate such platforms domestically. However, players can access offshore gaming sites. These platforms exist in a legal gray area since Illinois law does not explicitly prohibit them. Plus, the state has never taken steps to prosecute individuals for doing so. While other forms of online gambling are legal, the Prairie State has not addressed online casinos. |
| Land-based casinos | There are currently 15 land-based casinos in operation in Illinois. A new one is expected to open in the future. The new law from 2019 allows riverboat casinos to move to land, and this process has been time-consuming and led to a delay in launching updated services. Riverboat casinos can expand from 1,200 gaming positions to 2,000 when moving to land, offering players much more to explore. |
| Poker | Poker is readily available in Illinois via charitable organizations and casinos. The state includes five poker rooms hosting tournaments and cash games for players to enjoy in person. World Series of Poker circuit events regularly take place in the state along with other major poker tournament action. |
| Social Gambling | Social gaming involving the exchanging of funds is prohibited. Players can enjoy a social game with friends, such as poker or blackjack, but no monetary gain must be involved. |
| Taxes on Casino Winnings | Players must pay a 4.95% tax on gambling winnings. |
Disclaimer: The information on this page does not, nor does it intend to, constitute legal advice. This page is for learning purposes and may not have the most up-to-date information year-round. Readers should contact their attorney and/or accountant for advice concerning any particular legal matter. Do not take any action without first contacting a lawyer in your state.
Comparing Casino Options for Illinois Players
When it comes to casino gaming in Illinois, you have three main options: offshore online casinos, social casinos, and local casinos.
Each option offers unique features, here’s a comparison of each option based on key factors.
| Key Factors | Online Casinos | Land-Based Casinos | Online Social Casinos |
|---|---|---|---|
| State Regulated | ⓧ | ✓ | ⓧ |
| Real Money Play | ✓ | ✓ | ⓧ |
| Free Play | ✓ | ⓧ | ✓ |
| Play from Anywhere | ✓ | ⓧ | ✓ |
| Licensed | ✓ | ✓ | ⓧ |
What’s the Best Type of Casino for Illinoisans?
While the state has several land-based venues offering slots, table games, and poker rooms, they require travel and have limited accessibility. Since Illinois has not legalized online casinos, state-regulated platforms are unavailable.
Offshore casinos, however, provide a convenient alternative with extensive game libraries, live dealer options, and competitive bonuses. For players seeking variety and flexibility, offshore sites offer the best overall experience.
A Brief History of Illinois Gambling
Gambling was first legalized in 1990 with the Riverboat Gambling Act. This measure allowed casinos to offer services on the waterways. Over the years, the lottery was added along with sports betting.
In 2019, a major overhaul of Illinois gambling legislation took place, opening the door for riverboat casinos to move to land. It also approved six additional casino licenses so the industry can grow further.
Online casinos were not included in the package. It would not be surprising to see Illinois lawmakers consider iGaming in the future as more states start to pass legislation.
Responsible Gaming Initiatives
The Illinois Gaming Board offers responsible gambling assistance for players who need help due to a possible gambling addiction. The state offers self-exclusion for sports betting, casino gaming, and video gaming machines.
Individuals, family members, or friends of a gambler can reach out for help by visiting the Illinois Gambling Helpline or calling 1-800-GAMBLER and asking for more information on services and programs.
The Future of Online Casinos in Illinois
Illinois passed legal changes to its gambling industry in 2019, with a major overhaul by legislators. We don’t expect any additional changes over the next few years as regulators tend to the licensing process in new areas of the state and additions are made to the land-based casino industry.
Illinois may consider iGaming in the online casino realm, especially since the state offers online lottery and sports betting services. We could see legislation in the future to add online casino gaming to the state’s regulated operations.
Frequently Asked Questions
Below are a few frequently asked questions in Illinois with information regarding the entire gambling industry.
Are there real money online casinos in Illinois with no deposit bonuses?
Not really. Most offshore casino sites offer a welcome bonus with a deposit offer. You add funds to your account, and the casino matches the amount based on a percentage.
Is there any risk of playing at online casinos regulated outside of Illinois?
Playing with a regulated offshore casino is less risky than playing at just any site. The iGaming industry is a gray market in Illinois, and no player has been prosecuted for accessing services.
Who regulates online casinos in Illinois?
Playing at offshore online casinos carries minimal risk if you choose reputable, licensed platforms. These casinos are regulated by international authorities, but it’s important to research their reputation and ensure they prioritize security and fair play.
How do tribal casinos differ from commercial casinos in Illinois?
Tribal casinos do not currently exist in the state. However, future legislative changes will allow tribes to operate commercial casinos, but these will not be located on reservation land. However, they will be owned and operated by the tribes.
