This Saturday, March 5, 2022, Illinois residents will once again be able to register for legal online sportsbooks from the comfort of home.
Legal online sports betting actually launched in Illinois in 2020. Anyone in the state who is 21 years old or older can sign up for an online sportsbook….but must complete their registration in-person at a land-based, brick-and-mortar casino.
This in-person requirement has been problematic for many. Luckily, this requirement is exactly what is set to change. On March 5, Illinois sports bettors will no longer need to drive to their online sportsbook’s partner casino to finish their registration. Bettors can create an account, deposit, wager and enjoy sports betting entertainment 100% online.
There are multiple online sportsbooks currently live in Illinois. These sports betting apps regularly offer bonuses, free bets and promotions to attract new customers. Here are two of our favorites for you to consider.
Illinois Sportsbook Promos
PointsBet Illinois
If you sign up to PointsBet Illinois, new users can score TWO risk-free bets, worth up to $2,000 in value. Register using PointsBet promo code 2FREEBETS to claim this sign up bonus.
PointsBet also offers a sharp mobile app, plus its unique “Points Betting” feature. Whether you’re a new or experienced bettor, this is an app worth adding to your arsenal.
DraftKings Illinois
DraftKings Sportsbook is stepping things up and putting an exclusive bonus on offer for Illinois residents only.
DraftKings Illinois customers can bet $5 to win $200 in free bets! While this bonus is for new users only, it couldn’t be easier to claim. Simply click here to sign up, deposit $5+ into your account, and place a $5 bet.
And that’s it! You’ll receive $200 in free live bets, in addition to any cash winnings from your original wager, once your original bet settles. The only item to note from the fine print is that the “bonus will be paid as eight (8) $25 free bets.” More free bets = more action = more opportunity to find betting value!
No DraftKings promo code is required to claim these free bets. Click below to get started.
What's Next For Illinois Sports Betting
Any legal, regulated online sportsbook can be considered by Illinois sports bettors. Regulatory oversight ensures that all licensed operators have met stringent safety, security and privacy requirements. Unlike offshore sportsbooks, PointsBet, DraftKings and other legal Illinois sportsbooks are legally obligated to maintain certain business standards. Your bets will be placed safely and settled fairly.
In fact, sports betting regulations are continuing to open new doors for the industry in the Prairie State. For example, earlier this year, FanDuel reached an agreement with the world-renowned United Center to open a sportsbook lounge inside the arena. That means there soon will be live sports betting in the same building as live sport!
We’ll continue to keep you updated as Illinois sports betting news continues to break. In the meantime, if you’re looking for official resources, consider checking out the Illinois Gaming Board’s official website. The state has resources available for problem gambling as well.
Happy March 5th to one and all!
New PointsBet Sign Up Bonus!
Sign up to PointsBet and receive five second-chance bets, up to the value of $100 each! Click here to claim your bonus now!

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