DraftKings plans to introduce a 50-cent transaction fee on all mobile and online wagers placed in Illinois beginning 1 September 2025. The decision comes as a direct response to rising state tax rates on legal sports betting.
This move follows FanDuel’s earlier announcement to implement the same fee starting 1 July, after Illinois passed the Transaction Fee provision under House Bill 1928.
DraftKings said the new fee aims to offset the financial strain caused by the tax hike. The company added that it would eliminate the fee if lawmakers repeal the measure.
CEO and Co-Founder Jason Robins voiced concerns over the policy shift, stating:
“We are disappointed that Illinois policymakers have chosen to more than triple our tax rate over the past two years. We are very concerned about the impact this will have on the legal, regulated industry, especially while the illegal market continues to thrive without paying taxes or offering consumer protection.”
As part of its ongoing public outreach, DraftKings recently teamed up with UFC to promote responsible gambling tools via TV and social media during major fight events in 2025.
The operator reiterated its commitment to sustainable industry growth and collaboration with regulators. It also highlighted its investments in consumer safety and responsible gambling initiatives as a cornerstone of its approach.
Illinois is among several U.S. states tightening gambling tax policies. In response, operators like DraftKings are reevaluating pricing and cost strategies—making this per-bet charge one of the first direct fee responses tied to tax legislation in the legal betting space.
