Editorial note: this guide is general information about how bingo, competitions, lotteries and gambling work in the UK. It is not advice, and it does not describe any specific promotion offered by Fortune Games. Rules, prices and regulations can change, so always check the operator’s current terms.
What is the gambling levy?
The gambling levy is a mandatory charge that UK-licensed gambling operators must pay to fund work on gambling harm. Introduced by the Gambling Levy Regulations 2025 and in force from 6 April 2025, it replaced a voluntary system of industry donations. It is collected by the Gambling Commission and used for research, prevention and treatment. Importantly, it is paid by operators, not by players directly.
How the levy works
Every operator licensed by the Gambling Commission pays an annual levy set as a percentage of its gambling income, with the rate varying by sector — higher for online operators and lower for things like society lotteries and smaller land-based venues. The Commission collects the money under the government’s direction, and operators that fail to pay risk losing their licence. The aim is steady, ring-fenced funding rather than the previous voluntary contributions, which critics felt left support for harm dependent on the goodwill of the industry causing it.
Where the money goes
Levy funding is split across three areas: the largest share goes to treatment, led through the NHS and equivalent bodies, with the rest divided between prevention and research. In practice that pays for things like specialist clinics, public-health style prevention work, and independent study of how harm happens and how to reduce it. For players, the levy does not change how you gamble or what you pay at the point of play, but it does mean better-funded, more independent support for anyone affected by gambling — including free help through the National Gambling Helpline.
Frequently asked questions
Who pays the gambling levy?
UK-licensed gambling operators pay it, as a percentage of their gambling income. It is not charged directly to players, though operators meet the cost from their overall business.
When did the gambling levy start?
It came into force on 6 April 2025 under the Gambling Levy Regulations 2025, replacing the previous system of voluntary industry contributions.
What is the levy money used for?
Research, prevention and treatment of gambling-related harm. The largest share funds treatment through the NHS and equivalents, with the rest split between prevention and research.
Does the levy change anything for players?
Not at the point of play. It does not alter how you gamble or what you stake, but it provides steadier, more independent funding for support and treatment services.
Related guides: What is BeGambleAware? · National Gambling Helpline · Signs of problem gambling
18+ only. Gambling should be fun, never a way to make money. Please play responsibly and only with money you can afford to lose. If gambling is affecting you or someone you know, free, confidential support is available 24/7 from the National Gambling Helpline on 0808 8020 133, run by GamCare. You can also visit BeGambleAware (begambleaware.org) or self-exclude from UK-licensed online operators through GAMSTOP (gamstop.co.uk).