DraftKings is changing the game for Illinois bettors. Starting September 1, every online or mobile bet placed in the state will include a 50¢ fee. The move comes in response to rising taxes on the Illinois sports betting fee.

• The new transaction fee will apply to every bet placed through DraftKings Sportsbook in Illinois starting September 1, 2025. This comes after Illinois lawmakers hiked taxes on mobile and online wagering. DraftKings says the state’s tax rate has more than tripled over the past two years.

• DraftKings CEO Jason Robins voiced concern about the impact on the legal market. “We are very concerned about what this will do to the legal, regulated industry,” he said. He also warned of growing risks from illegal markets that avoid taxes and lack consumer protection.

• The company stated the 50¢ charge is Illinois-specific and aims to offset increased operational costs from the state’s new tax laws. DraftKings has not applied this fee in any other state so far. The company noted it would scrap the charge if lawmakers reverse the tax changes.

• Illinois remains a major market for DraftKings, with strong activity across mobile sports wagering. But the company suggests steep taxes could drive bettors to offshore or unregulated platforms. DraftKings says such platforms don’t contribute tax revenue or invest in player safeguards.

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