NFL betting in Illinois: Is it legal and how to wager online

Football represents the leading betting market throughout the US. NFL betting in Illinois is arguably the most popular form of betting in the state. You can place all the standard bets, as well as in-game bets and futures surrounding each season. With multiple leading teams based in and around Illinois, you can catch up on the action live and place bets using trusted bookmakers.

In this guide, we will explore the legal status of betting on the NFL in Illinois. You’ll also get to know about the different teams and sportsbooks you can bet on and the types of bets available. Keep on reading to learn more about NFL betting in IL.

Is betting on the NFL legal in Illinois?

Wagering on sports is legal in Illinois, meaning that betting on the NFL is also legal. It all started in June 2019 when Illinois legalized sports betting across the state. Retail sportsbooks first opened in March 2020.

The first sports betting app also came online only three months later. Following the launch, sports betting in the state has consistently crossed the $100 million mark in monthly revenues. Until as recently as March 2022, however, players had to sign up for sports betting in-person at retail-based casinos in the state.

According to ILbetting.com, there are currently 7 active and licensed betting sites in Illinois where you can bet on the NFL.

What types of betting types are there for the NFL?

There are plenty of different bet types to choose from when it comes to NFL betting in Illinois. Below, you can briefly learn about the main ones.

• Moneyline: It is the simplest type of bet to place on NFL games. You only need the name of the team and the odds’ information in order to place a moneyline bet. This is because you’re simply wagering on whom you think should win the contest.
• Points spread: This is a more coordinated bet to make. Compared to moneylines, there’s a third element as well, namely the predicted score difference between the two teams at the end of the game. Your job is to choose between going with and going against the sportsbook’s prediction.
• Over/under: Also known as points total, an over/under is about the combined points scored by the two teams at the end of the game. If you believe the total will exceed the bookmaker’s prediction, you bet the over. In case you believe the opposite, you bet the under.

Best Illinois sportsbooks for NFL betting

There are various top sportsbooks offering NFL betting in Illinois with plenty of popular features, bonuses, and bet types. You can find all the leading bookmakers listed below.

• DraftKings: DraftKings is a well-rated sportsbook that comes with a betting carousel and cash-out options. The carousel customizes itself automatically for each bettor. Likewise, well-designed betting apps can adapt to the needs of each individual user.
• Caesars: The sportsbook stands out with a hefty welcome bonus as well as its daily enhanced odds. The prices are fair and competitive, and you can place bets on the go using a functional betting app on Android or iOS.
• BetMGM: It features a comprehensive list of sports and betting markets to choose from. Navigation is smooth, and you can also edit your bets. Single-game parlays are also available.
• PointsBet: The sportsbook features a unique kind of betting called PointsBetting. Bettors can enjoy a myriad of bonuses and promotions at their convenience. Feature-rich betting apps and 24/7 customer support are also available for members to use.

Which NFL teams are there around Illinois to bet on?

There is only one NFL team based in Illinois. But you can find many teams nearby. We will briefly explore all the main ones below:

• Chicago Bears (in Illinois): This is the native NFL team of the Illinois state. Its home stadium is Soldier Field which can seat over 61,000 people. The team played its first season as early as 1920. Matt Eberflus is currently the team’s head coach.
• Kansas City Chiefs: The team is based in Kansas City in Missouri. The team’s home stadium is GEHA Field at Arrowhead, with a seating capacity of over 76,000. This team played its first AFL game in 1960. But following the league’s subsequent merger with the older NFL, the team’s first NFL season on the record dates back to 1970.
• Indianapolis Colts: Based in Indianapolis, the team plays in the NFL and are based in Indiana. Lucas Oil Stadium is the home ground of the team, with a capacity to accommodate about 67,000 people. The team played its debut season back in 1953.

FAQ

New bettors may find betting on the NFL in Illinois a bit challenging. They may face tax-related concerns, as well as have questions regarding betting demand and the legal betting age. You can find all your burning queries addressed below.

How old do you have to be to bet on the NFL in Illinois?

You must be at least 21 years old to bet on the NFL in Illinois. This is true regardless of whether you’re betting in-person or online. Sportsbooks have a legal requirement to verify your age. So, make sure to provide supporting documents for verification as and when needed.

Is betting on the NFL popular in Illinois?

Yes, betting on the NFL is very popular in Illinois. This is because football betting is generally popular and well-known across the US. Further, a home team adds to the appeal of the game across Illinois. You can bet at one of the supported retail-based casinos or, more conveniently, online.

Do you have to pay taxes on NFL betting winnings in IL?Yes, you have to pay taxes on NFL betting winnings in Illinois. Income from winning bets comes under personal income. It is taxable at a flat rate of 4.95%, as per state laws. Additionally, you’ll need to pay federal tax on your winnings at anywhere between 10% and 37%.

This is a paid guest post.