DraftKings to End Credit Card Deposits Nationwide

DraftKings stated the decision was made to help players avoid cash advance fees and high-interest charges often attached to gambling transactions.

Ziv Chen

Last Updated: August 26, 2025 3:03 PM EDT • 2 minute read

DraftKings to End Credit Card Deposits Nationwide — Pictured: A woman shows credit cards as we look at DraftKings banning credit card deposits. Photo by Xinhua/Sipa USA via Imagn Images.

DraftKings will remove credit card funding from its sportsbook and online casino platforms in the US, effective Aug. 25.

Customers were informed of the change directly, as the company confirmed that deposits through credit cards will no longer be accepted. DraftKings stated that the decision was made to help players avoid cash advance fees and high-interest charges often associated with gambling transactions.

The operator emphasized that the move was a strategic business decision rather than a regulatory mandate. Stored credit card details will be automatically disabled, and customers will still have access to debit cards, PayPal, and bank transfers.

DraftKings explained further that the change was a step towards enhancing the deposit process and introducing an added measure of protection for its customers.

However, the timing of the update has raised questions after DraftKings was fined $450,000 by the Massachusetts Gaming Commission last month for allowing credit card deposits, despite a state prohibition on such transactions. While DraftKings stressed the nationwide change was unrelated to that penalty, industry analysts noted the overlap.

Several states, including Tennessee, Iowa, and Illinois, already prohibit the use of credit cards to place sports bets. DraftKings' ruling reflects increasing regulatory and industry support for consumer protection.

The National Council of Legislators from Gaming States has further called on lawmakers to ban credit card gambling nationwide. Analysts posit that the act could aid in curtailing problem gambling activities, though it could inconvenience a few recreational gamblers who depend on credit cards to access rewards and tracking.

DraftKings secures Missouri mobile licenses

The decision to remove credit card deposits comes as DraftKings expands its regulatory footprint, following the Missouri Gaming Commission's (MGC) awarding of one of two direct mobile sports betting licenses.

Circa Sports received the second Missouri sports betting license, enabling both operators to operate independently of casino or sports district partnerships.

This approach differs from other states, where operators often depend on local market access agreements.

“We’re pleased to secure one of two direct mobile licenses in Missouri. Paving the way for us to bring DraftKings’ industry-leading online sportsbook to fans across the state. Missouri is home to several professional teams and deeply passionate fanbases, and we look forward to enhancing their sports experience with a dynamic and responsible mobile platform,” said DraftKings North America President Matt Kalish.

DraftKings' selection reinforces its position as one of the most prominent sportsbook operators in the country. Although less nationally established, Circa Sports has gained recognition for its operations in Nevada and other states.

FanDuel, typically DraftKings' closest competitor, was not selected for a direct mobile license despite being a finalist. Instead, it secured market access through a partnership with St. Louis City SC, ensuring its participation in Missouri before the Dec. 1 launch.

Written by:
Ziv Chen

Ziv has over two decades of experience in the igaming and sports betting industry, having served in senior marketing and business development positions with both B2C and B2B companies, including Playtech and Microgaming. In 2019, Ziv decided to pursue his passion for writing and became a fulltime industry journalist, covering casino, sports, and gambling business news. He’s specialties include casino games and technology, US state gambling regulation, company performance, as well as gambling affiliates and marketing. As a Pitt graduate, Ziv is a diehard fan of all Pittsburgh sports teams, with the Steelers at the top of the list. In his free time, he enjoys reading crime fiction, biographies (mainly of sports personalities, but not only) and American history. Ziv’s Favorite quote: “We're going to pursue perfection, knowing full well we won't catch it, but we're going to relentlessly chase it," Mike Tomlin, Pittsburgh Steelers Head Coach.