Best Illinois Online Casinos 2024 – Play at Top Real Money Gambling Sites in IL

Illinois online casinos are becoming increasingly popular as residents enjoy the convenience of gambling from their own homes. These casino sites provide hundreds of games with immersive graphics and bonus features.

Online gambling in Illinois is limited to sports betting, and local operators are still prohibited from launching online casino sites. Players are forced to turn to online casinos licensed and regulated offshore, which still accept players from the Prairie State. Today, we’ll review the 10 best Illinois online casinos that are legally accessible and offer an outstanding gaming platform.

Top 10 Illinois Online Casinos for 2024

After thoroughly evaluating numerous brands, we’ve identified the top 10 online casinos in Illinois. These platforms provide a secure and enjoyable gaming experience and can be accessed with just a few clicks.

1. Wild Casino – No.1 Illinois Online Casino for Overall Experience
2. Bovada – Offers Live Tables With High Table Limits Up to $50,000
3. BetWhale – Best Choice for Classic Casino Table Games
4. Black Lotus – Access a Plethora of Promotions & A Chance to Win a Luxury Car
5. Coin Poker – Get Your Winnings Instantly at this Crypto Poker Casino
6. Lucky Creek – Provides an Engaging Wild-West Casino with Great Promos
7. Lucky Red – Premier IL Online Casino for Deposit Bonus Matches
8. Ignition – Reputable Brand for Poker Play & Poker Bonuses
9. TG.Casino – Ideal Option for Mobile Casino Play with Cryptos
10. BetUS – Trustworthy Brand with US Players for Engaging Table Games

The Best Illinois Gambling Sites Reviewed

Let’s explore the top 5 Illinois online casinos, highlighting the types of games available, bonuses on offer, featured payment methods, and other important features. These platforms are licensed and regulated by international authorities, allowing them to operate legally and be accessed quickly from Illinois.

1. Wild Casino – No.1 Illinois Online Casino for Overall Experience

Wild Casino is a top choice for Illinois players seeking an excellent online gaming experience. Launched in 2017 and licensed by the Panama Gaming Control Board, this online casino offers a safe and reliable platform with strong security and fair play assurances.

You can enjoy a variety of payment options, including 15+ cryptocurrencies and traditional methods like credit and debit cards. Wild Casino is notable for its efficient same-day payouts, providing a smooth banking experience.

With a selection of more than 600 games, this Illinois-friendly casino caters to all types of players. The site’s user-friendly design ensures easy navigation on both desktop and mobile devices. Additionally, the casino offers generous promotions, with valuable bonuses available nearly every day of the week.

After thorough evaluation, Wild Casino stands out as our top pick for the best overall online casino experience for Illinois players.

Wild Casino Bonus:

 

2. Bovada – Offers Live Tables With High Table Limits Up to $50,000

Bovada is a favorite among Illinois online casino fans, especially for those who love high-stakes live dealer games. Operating for over 10 years and regulated by Curaçao eGaming, Bovada offers a secure and enjoyable casino site.

While Bovada may not have the largest game selection, it still provides plenty of variety. You can enjoy over 200 slots, hourly hot drop jackpots, and top-notch live dealer tables with limits up to $50,000, perfect for high rollers.

Payment options include cryptocurrencies and traditional banking, and withdrawals are processed within 48 hours for quick access to your winnings. If you have any questions, Bovada has a detailed FAQ section and a 24/7 customer support team available.

Though its promotions could be more extensive, Bovada’s rewards program offers great benefits for loyal players, making it a solid choice, especially for players who intend to engage with other players through live casino games.

Bovada Casino Bonus:

 

3. BetWhale – Best Choice for Classic Casino Table Games

BetWhale is a secure, real money offshore casino available to Illinois players. We were impressed by the variety of table games this casino offers, including blackjack, roulette, poker, and baccarat, among others.

In addition to table games, BetWhale offers slots, live table games, specialty titles for instant wins, jackpot games and video poker. Safe payment options are available for deposits and payouts. These include credit/debit cards, digital wallets, and cryptocurrencies. Cryptos are the best option for fast payouts.

New joiners can enjoy a generous welcome bonus, although the ongoing promotions could be more robust. Overall, BetWhale provides an engaging gaming experience and ranks among the best online casinos for Illinois players.

BetWhale Casino Bonus:

4. Black Lotus – Access a Plethora of Promotions & A Chance to Win a Luxury Car

Black Lotus Casino is a top choice for Illinois players looking for a secure and exciting online casino experience. Regulated by Curaçao eGaming, this platform features a captivating Asian-inspired theme that adds a vibrant touch to your gaming.

With advanced encryption technology, Black Lotus ensures that your data stays protected across all devices, whether you’re playing on desktop or mobile. The casino offers smooth banking transactions through trusted methods like credit cards and Bitcoin, providing both convenience and security.

The promotional offers at Black Lotus are impressive, with generous welcome bonuses and ongoing promotions to keep the fun alive. High rollers will appreciate the VIP Crypto Elite Club, offering exclusive rewards for those looking to level up their experience.

Overall, Black Lotus Casino combines engaging themes, secure banking, and exciting promotions. For Illinois players seeking a reliable and thrilling casino, it’s definitely a great option!

Black Lotus Casino Bonus:

 

5. Coin Poker – Get Your Winnings Instantly at this Crypto Poker Casino

If you’re impatient when it comes to cashing out your winnings and you love poker, this Illinois online casino could be perfect for you. CoinPoker stands out as a blockchain-powered platform that exclusively uses cryptocurrency. While this might be a downside for some, it’s a huge advantage for others, thanks to its instant payouts. And if poker isn’t your thing, don’t worry. You can choose from over 1,600 games, including slots, crash games, video poker, lottery-style games, live dealer options, and table games.

Navigating CoinPoker is simple, with a user-friendly interface for both desktop and mobile. However, note that you’ll need to install their software to access the full game lobby. While this offers an enhanced iGaming experience, it might feel inconvenient if you prefer instant access.

But the install is worth it. Along with a wide game selection, you’ll enjoy exciting promotions, from cosmic spins to tournaments, plus a 33% rakeback for extra value.

Coin Poker Casino Bonus:

Top IL Online Casinos – Quick Facts

Here’s a quick glance overview of the most important key features of each casino casino site.

How We Select the Best Illinois Online Gambling Sites

It’s important to make smart decisions when choosing where to place wagers. To ensure that we recommend the best Illinois online casinos, our ranking and review analysis follows a meticulous plan. We evaluate each casino based on various criteria.

For a detailed explanation of our process, check out our guide on How We Rank Gambling Sites. This will give you an insight into our thorough evaluation methods and help you understand why these Illinois online casinos stand out.

Casino Bonuses at Online Casinos in Illinois

Bonuses are a key attraction for players at IL online casinos. They offer extra value and enhance the gaming experience. From welcome bonuses to ongoing promotions, these incentives can significantly boost your bankroll and increase your chances of winning. Let’s dive into the different types of bonuses you can expect.

Welcome Bonuses

Welcome bonuses are the casino’s way of saying hello to new players. They typically match your initial deposit by a certain percentage, sometimes offering additional perks like free spins.

On-Going Promotions

Once you’re settled in, you’ll have access to ongoing promotions. These can range from weekly reload bonuses to special events and seasonal offers. On-going promotions provide continuous value and opportunities to enhance your winnings.

Deposit Match Bonuses

When you make a deposit, the casino matches a percentage of it, often ranging from 50% to 200%. Just remember to check the wagering requirements that come with these bonuses to fully understand how they work.

No Deposit Bonuses

These bonuses give you a small amount of free cash or free spins just for signing up. It’s a great way to explore the games and get a feel for the casino before deciding to make a deposit. While these bonuses often come with higher wagering requirements, they provide a risk-free opportunity to win real money.

Free Spins Bonuses

Free spins allow you to enjoy popular slots without using your own money, giving you a chance to win real cash prizes. Be sure to check which games are eligible and any wagering requirements attached to these bonuses.

Loyalty Bonuses/VIP Programs

Thanks to loyalty and VIP programs, you’ll earn points as you play that can be redeemed for various rewards, including bonus cash, free spins, and exclusive gifts. VIP programs often come with additional perks like personal account managers, faster withdrawals, and invitations to special events.

Refer-a-Friend Bonuses

When you invite a friend to join the casino, and they sign up using your referral link, both you and your friend receive a bonus. This could be in the form of free cash, free spins, or a deposit match.

Cashback Bonuses

With these bonuses, a percentage of your losses over a certain period is returned to you as bonus cash. This can range from 5% to 20% or more, depending on the casino’s offer.

Sign-Up Bonuses at the Best Online Gambling Sites in Illinois Compared

The following table compares all the sign up bonuses offered by our recommended Illinois online casinos.

Real Money Online Casino Games You Can Play at Illinois Online Gambling Sites

Some of the best Illinois online gambling sites offer thousands of games. Whether you’re into spinning the reels or strategizing your way to a poker win, you can play casino games that suit your preferences. Here are some popular options:

Online Slots

Online slots come with engaging themes ranging from classic fruit machines to modern video slots with intricate storylines. They often feature exciting bonuses, free spins, and progressive jackpots, offering numerous chances to win big.

Poker

Our reviewed Illinois online casinos offer various poker formats, including Texas Hold’em, Omaha, and Seven-Card Stud. Have a look at our recommended poker sites for the best poker experience online.

Video Poker

In video poker online casinos, players are dealt five cards and can choose which to keep or discard to form the best possible hand. You can find various versions like Jacks or Better, Deuces Wild, and Joker Poker.

Blackjack

Blackjack, also known as 21, is a classic table game. Variants like Classic Blackjack, European Blackjack, and Live Dealer Blackjack add exciting twists to this classic game. Our recommended IL online gambling sites include some of the best real money online blackjack casinos, offering various versions and flexible table limits to cater to both newbies and high rollers.

Roulette

In roulette, players bet on where a ball will land on a spinning wheel, choosing from numbers, colors, or combinations. At the best online roulette casinos, you can enjoy different odds and betting options with versions like American, European, and French Roulette available.

Baccarat

Baccarat is a sophisticated card game often associated with high roller casino players. You need to bet on whether the player’s hand, the banker’s hand, or a tie will win. There are different baccarat variants with a low house edge, like Punto Banco and Chemin de Fer.

Craps

Craps is an exciting social dice game where you bet on the outcome of the roll, or a series of rolls, of a pair of dice. Online versions offer a range of betting options and fast-paced action, making it a dynamic option for engaging play online.

Live Casino Games

Live casino games are a great way to play from the comfort of your own home while still having an interactive live dealer casino experience. Games like live blackjack, live roulette, and live baccarat allow you to interact with dealers and other players.

Other Games

Illinois online casinos also offer a variety of other games with instant wins. These include bingo, keno and online scratchcards. Games like Sic Bo and Andar Nights are also popular, along with other specialty titles such as Slingo.

Common Payment Methods for IL Online Gambling

The best Illinois online casinos for real money offer different types of payment methods to accommodate different preferences. Here are some of the most popular payment methods available.

Cryptocurrencies

With cryptocurrencies like Bitcoin becoming increasingly recognized as a secure payment option, it’s no surprise that many IL online casinos are also accepting them for deposits and payouts. Some of the fastest payout casinos offer instant payouts with a high level of security and anonymity.

Credit/Debit Cards

Credit and debit cards like Visa and Mastercard are widely accepted at online casinos. The process is straightforward, with transactions typically processed between 3-5 business days. However, note that these will be reflected on your bank statements, and some banks may have restrictions on gambling transactions.

Bank Transfers

Bank transfers might not be as fast as other payment options, but they are highly trusted and widely used. These are ideal for larger transactions and can be a good option for players who prefer dealing directly with their bank. Transaction times may take longer, up to 15 business days.

eWallets

eWallets like PayPal, Skrill, and Neteller are also popular banking methods. They act as an intermediary between your bank account and the casino, providing an extra layer of security. Transactions are typically instant, making them ideal for both deposits and withdrawals.

Real Money Online Casinos in Illinois vs. Free Gambling

When it comes to online gambling, you have the option to play real money casino games or games that are available for free. Here’s a comparison to help you decide which might be the best fit for you.

Illinois Casino Apps & Mobile Gambling

 

Mobile gambling allows you to place bets and play your favorite casino games right from your smartphone or tablet. Whether you use an iPhone or an Android device, most online casinos have optimized their websites for mobile use without needing to download a separate casino app. This means you can enjoy all the features and games of the desktop version directly on your mobile browser.

Although none of our recommended sites currently offer dedicated casino apps, their mobile sites are fully functional and user-friendly. Playing on a mobile site has its advantages, such as instant access without taking up storage space on your device. Plus, mobile sites are regularly updated, ensuring you get the latest games and features without having to update an app.

Pros & Cons of Playing on Mobile Devices vs. Desktop

Playing casino games on mobile devices and desktops comes with its own set of advantages and disadvantages. Here’s a comparison to help you understand the benefits and drawbacks of each platform.

Is Online Gambling Legal in Illinois?

Online gambling in Illinois is on the path to legalization with the introduction of two key bills: HB2239 and SB1656. These bills, collectively known as the Internet Gaming Act, aim to legalize and regulate online casino gaming in the state.

If passed, they would allow Illinois residents to legally participate in online casino gaming, overseen by the Illinois Gaming Board. This regulatory body ensures that all activities are conducted fairly and transparently.

Currently, Illinois allows legal online sports betting and online lottery games. The new bills aim to expand this to include online casino games, broadening the range of legal online gambling options available in Illinois.

Illinois Gambling Laws and Regulatory Body

The Illinois Gaming Board is the primary regulatory body overseeing gambling activities in the state. This includes ensuring that all forms of gambling, from traditional casinos to sports betting, operate within the legal framework set by the state.

The Board is responsible for licensing, regulating, and monitoring gambling operators to ensure they adhere to strict standards of fairness and transparency. As online gambling laws evolve, the Illinois Gaming Board will continue to play a crucial role in maintaining the integrity and safety of the gambling environment for Illinois residents.

Online Casino Gambling in Illinois – What Does the Future Hold?

When will online casinos be legal in Illinois? The future of legal online casino gaming in the sate looks promising as legislative efforts gain momentum. HB2239 and SB1656 would open up new opportunities for both players and operators.

As the state progresses towards legalization, players can expect a secure and exciting online gambling environment, with a variety of games and robust consumer protections.

Other Forms of Gambling in Illinois

Illinois offers a variety of gambling options beyond online casinos. Here’s a quick overview of the different types available in the state:

• Illinois Online Sports Betting
  Launched in 2020, online sports betting is legal and regulated in Illinois. Residents can place bets on a wide range of sports through licensed operators.
• Online Poker in Illinois
  Currently, online poker is not explicitly legal in Illinois. However, there are ongoing legislative efforts to regulate and legalize it.
• Social and Sweepstakes Casinos in Illinois
  These platforms offer casino-style games for free. You can win prizes through virtual currency like Gold Coins and Sweeps Coins. Real money gambling is not available and players only engage for entertainment purposes.
• Land-Based Gambling in Illinois
  Illinois has several land-based casinos. These establishments are regulated by the Illinois Gaming Board and provide a traditional casino experience.

Illinois Online Casino Bills and Motions

Illinois is actively working to legalize online casinos, with bills and motions introduced in recent years. Here’s a chronological overview of the key legislative events:

• May 2024 – Illinois’ 2023 online casino bills HB2239 and SB1656 remain active. Rep. Gonzalez anticipates a committee discussion but acknowledges more time is needed for the bill to gain traction.
• October 2023 – Rep. Edgar Gonzalez Jr. expresses optimism that HB2239 can advance in the 2024 session, citing continued engagement with legislators.
• February 2023 – HB2239 and SB1656, also known as the Internet Gaming Act, are introduced to legalize online casino gaming in Illinois.
• August 2022 – Preliminary discussions begin on the framework for regulating online casino gaming.
• March 2021 – Illinois Gaming Board starts exploring potential regulations for online gambling expansion.
• June 2020 – Online sports betting officially launched in Illinois, setting a precedent for future online gambling legislation.

Who Is Allowed to Gamble in Illinois?

In Illinois, the legal gambling age is 21 for casino games and sports betting and 18 for the Illinois lottery and horse racing. Additionally, players must be physically located within Illinois to engage in online gambling activities.

Are My Gambling Winnings Taxed in Illinois?

Yes, gambling winnings in Illinois are subject to both state and federal taxes. The state imposes a flat tax rate of 4.95% on all gambling winnings. Federal taxes also apply, with rates varying based on total income.

Winnings over $5,000 from lotteries and gambling activities typically result in an automatic withholding of 24% for federal tax. We advise you to keep accurate records of your wins and losses so that you can report your net gambling income accurately.

Offshore Online Casino Gambling

Offshore online casinos operate outside U.S. jurisdiction, meaning they are not regulated by the Illinois Gaming Board or any U.S. authority. As a result, any winnings from these casinos are not automatically reported to U.S. tax authorities. It is your responsibility to declare these winnings on your tax returns.

How IL Online Gambling Compares to Neighboring US States

Illinois offers a regulated and expanding online gambling market, but it’s essential to understand how it compares with neighboring states. Here’s a brief overview of the current state of play for online casinos and gambling in Indiana, Kentucky, and Missouri.

Indiana

The state has legalized online sports betting, but Indiana online casinos remain illegal. Residents can bet on sports via licensed platforms, but for casino games, they must visit land-based, riverboat casinos, or offshore casinos online.

Kentucky

Kentucky allows horse racing and lottery games. Online sports betting and casino gambling are not yet legalized. The state has made recent legislative efforts to introduce sports betting, but online casino gaming remains off the table for now.

Missouri

Missouri allows riverboat casinos and has a well-regulated gambling market, but MO online casinos are not permitted. The state offers sports betting, lottery games, and charitable gaming, but online casino gaming is still illegal.

Iowa

Iowa has legalized online sports betting and daily fantasy sports, but online casinos are not yet legal. For casino gaming, players must visit one of the many land-based casinos scattered across the state or offshore casino sites in IA.

Wisconsin

Wisconsin does not permit online casinos or sports betting. Gambling options are primarily limited to tribal casinos and the state lottery. While Wisconsin online casinos are not currently allowed, efforts to introduce online gambling have not gained significant traction.

Land-Based Illinois Casinos

Land-based casinos in Illinois provide everything from slot machines to table games, live entertainment, and fine dining. Here are the top four land-based casinos in Illinois:

Advantages of Illinois Online Casinos Over Land-Based Casinos

Online casinos in Illinois provide unique advantages compared to traditional land-based casinos. Here are some key benefits of playing online, compared to brick-and-mortar casinos:

Sign Up with An Online Casino in Illinois

Joining Illinois casino sites is simple. Follow this guide to get started:

Step 1: Choose a Recommended Illinois Online Gambling Site

Begin by selecting a brand from our Illinois online casino reviews. These sites offer an excellent online gaming experience.

Step 2: Create and Verify Your Account

Visit the chosen Illinois online casino and click on “Join Now” or “Sign Up.” Complete the registration form and verify your account through email or SMS.

Step 3: Make a Deposit & Enter a Promo Code

Go to the cashier, pick a deposit method, and enter the deposit amount along with any bonus code to claim your welcome bonus. Confirm your deposit and the bonus will automatically be credited to your account.

Step 4: Play Your Favorite Games

Explore the game lobby and start enjoying your favorite casino games. Be sure to review the bonus terms and conditions to meet the wagering requirements before the bonus expires.

Responsible Gambling in Illinois

If you or someone you know is struggling with gambling, there are several resources available in Illinois to provide help and support.

• Illinois Council on Problem Gambling
• National Council on Problem Gambling Illinois
• Illinois Casino Gaming Association

The No.1 Illinois Online Casino Site

We chose Wild Casino as the top online casino for Illinois due to its exceptional overall experience. Among many great platforms, Wild Casino stood out for its extensive game library of over 600 titles from leading software providers.

You can also choose from 15+ payment options, including cryptocurrencies, and benefit from rewarding promotions. The intuitive mobile casino site ensures you can carry the casino in your pocket and play anywhere. With fast payouts processed within 24 hours, Wild Casino allows you to focus on enjoying your favorite games without hassle.

Illinois Online Gambling FAQs

Is gambling legal in Illinois?

Yes, gambling is legal in Illinois, including various forms such as lotteries, horse racing, and casino gaming. The Illinois Gaming Board regulates these activities to ensure fairness and compliance with state laws.

Is online gambling legal in Illinois?

Online sports betting and online lottery games are legal in Illinois. However, there are no legal online casinos since it is yet to be legalized. The only options are offshore-based casinos.

Are online casinos legal in IL?

Online casinos are not currently legal in Illinois. Players turn to offshore casinos to access casino games online.

Is it safe to gamble online in Illinois?

Yes, it is safe to gamble online in Illinois if you use licensed and regulated sites from reputable authorities like Panama and Curacao.

What is the gambling age in Illinois?

The legal gambling age in Illinois is 21 for casino games and sports betting and 18 for lottery and horse racing.

What are the best Illinois online casinos?

Top online casinos accessible from Illinois include Wild Casino, Bovada, and BetWhale. These sites offer a wide range of games, secure payment options, and attractive online casino bonuses.

Can I play online poker in IL?

Currently, online poker is not explicitly legalized in Illinois. Offshore poker sites offer an alternative to Illinois players as these are regulated outside the US.