Loyalty Program

BetMGM Illinois Review

BetMGM is the third-largest US sportsbook and the strongest loyalty play in Illinois thanks to MGM Rewards integration — points work at MGM hotels in Vegas, Detroit, Springfield, and beyond. To dodge the per-bet fee impact, BetMGM raised its IL minimum bet to $2.50 instead of passing the fee per-wager.

Overall Rating4.7/5 ★
LaunchedMarch 2022
PartnerParADice Casino East Peoria
Per-Bet FeeNone — raised minimum bet to $2.50 instead
Up to $1,500 First Bet Refund
Stake refunded as bonus bets if first bet loses · IL retains $1,500 legacy tier (PA/NJ pivoted to $150-win in May 2026) · valid through July 31, 2026
See Bonus Details →

Ratings Breakdown

overall
4.7
bonus
4.8
app
4.5
markets
4.5
odds
4.4
support
4.5

Pros

  • No per-bet fee charged — flat $2.50 minimum bet
  • MGM Rewards points usable in Vegas
  • Largest welcome offer ceiling ($1,500)
  • Strong NBA partnership content
  • Lion's Boost daily odds enhancement

Cons

  • $2.50 minimum hurts low-stakes bettors
  • App slightly slower than DK/FD on Android
  • Same-game parlay tool less developed
  • Limits enforced quickly on sharp customers

Key Specs

Parent Company
BetMGM LLC (MGM Resorts + Entain JV)
Retail Location
BetMGM Sportsbook at ParADice East Peoria
Payment Methods
PayPal, Online Bank Transfer (ACH), Debit Card, Play+, BetMGM Mastercard, Cash at ParADice
Min Deposit
$10
Min Bet
$2.50 (instead of per-bet fee)
Max Bet
Up to $25,000
Withdrawal Speed
24-72 hrs
App Rating
4.7★

Welcome Bonus

BetMGM's IL offer is First Bet Up to $1,500 Back in Bonus Bets. Lose your first wager (up to $1,500), get the full amount back as bonus bets — split into five chunks if over $50. It's the highest-ceiling welcome in Illinois but worst-case if you simply win the first bet.

Mobile App & UX

App rating: 4.7★ iOS / 4.4★ Android. Bet slip is reliable, parlay builder works fine but isn't as polished as FanDuel. Live console performs well. Lion's Boost (daily enhanced odds) is the standout promotion.

Sports & Markets

Strong NBA coverage thanks to the league partnership. NFL, MLB, NHL, soccer, tennis, golf, MMA, esports all covered. Player props are slightly thinner than DraftKings.

Odds & Pricing

Spreads/totals priced -110 to -115. Player props occasionally offer better numbers than DK/FD on smaller markets. Same-game parlays carry standard industry hold.

Banking & Payouts

$10 minimum deposit. PayPal/Play+ instant. Withdrawals via PayPal 1-3 hours, ACH 3-5 business days. BetMGM Mastercard is a debit option for users who want to spend rewards cashback as cash.

Customer Support

24/7 live chat + phone for VIP players. Self-exclusion tools meet IL Gaming Board standards.

Promotions & Loyalty

MGM Rewards is the killer feature. Every bet earns Tier Credits and Reward Credits — usable at MGM properties (Bellagio, ARIA, MGM Grand, MGM Springfield). Top-tier players unlock complimentary hotel stays and event access.

Verdict

BetMGM is the best Illinois sportsbook for bettors who travel to Vegas or already use MGM hotels. The $2.50 minimum dodges the per-bet fee elegantly. Best for: loyalty hunters, high-stakes parlay players, and MGM property regulars.

Frequently Asked Questions

Why doesn't BetMGM charge the $0.50 fee?

BetMGM chose to raise the minimum bet to $2.50 instead of passing the per-wager fee. The IL law applies per bet, not per dollar — so larger minimum stakes amortize the cost.