BetMGM set a $2.50 minimum bet for all wagers in Illinois that started on July 16, 2025. This change follows a new state tax that began on July 1, 2025. The Illinois Department of Revenue charges sportsbooks 25 cents per bet for the first 20 million bets each year.
After that, the tax rises to 50 cents per bet. This tax targets small bets, which are common in Illinois, a major sports betting market. BetMGM sent clear messages to customers about this change.
The goal of the company is to stay profitable as taxes increase. However, as a result, the higher minimum bet may affect Illinois bettors who like small wagers. Small bets are popular with casual bettors, but now they must bet at least $2.50.
The new rule applies to all bets, like straight bets, parlays, same game parlays, round robins, bonus bets, and tokens. Consequently, some bettors might switch to other sportsbooks with lower or no minimums.
As Illinois’ gambling market grows, companies like BetMGM are adapting to new rules and finding ways to keep bettors interested while managing costs.
For instance, recently, BetMGM named baseball star Derek Jeter as a brand ambassador. Jeter will appear in a “Legendary Plays” campaign and a new online slot game for baseball fans. This could help BetMGM stay appealing to bettors despite the higher bet minimum.
Other betting companies are also making changes. Hard Rock Bet now requires a $2 minimum bet, which is 0.50 cents lower than BetMGM’s fixed amount, meanwhile, Fanatics added a 25-cent fee. FanDuel and DraftKings will also add a 50-cent fee to all Illinois bets starting September 1, 2025, but they’re not happy about the change either.
“It is important to recognize that there is an optimal level for gaming tax rates that enables operators to provide the best experience for customers, maximize market growth and maximize revenue for states over time,” said Peter Jackson, CEO of Flutter Entertainment, parent company of FanDuel. “We are disappointed that the Illinois Transaction Fee will disproportionately impact lower wagering recreational customers while also punishing those operators who have invested the most to grow the online regulated market in the state.”
On the other hand, Caesars, bet365, BetRivers, Circa, and ESPN Bet have not announced changes yet.
The new tax hints at bigger changes. Attorney General Kwame Raoul spoke at a conference and said online casino gaming might be legal in 2026. This could lead to new betting rules. Raoul’s support shows Illinois is open to growing its gambling market.
