Understanding Betfair's Fee Structure
Betfair Expert FeeThe Premium Charge Replacement
In December 2024, Betfair replaced the Premium Charge with the Expert Fee. While it's "better" than before, it still takes up to 40% of your profits. Learn how it works and how to avoid it entirely.
Max 40% Fee
Down from 60%
52-Week Window
Not lifetime
Dynamic Rates
Can return to 0%
What is the Betfair Expert Fee?
The Betfair Expert Fee is a charge applied to highly profitable customers on the Betfair Exchange. It replaced the Premium Charge in December 2024 and takes 20% to 40% of your gross profits, on top of the standard 5% commission.
🔄 What Changed from Premium Charge?
Good News (Sort Of)
- ✓Lower maximum rate: 40% instead of 60%
- ✓52-week lookback: Not based on lifetime profits
- ✓Dynamic: Fee can return to 0% if profits decline
- ✓Fewer pay: ~50% reduction in affected customers
Bad News (Still Exists)
- ✗Still punishes winners: Up to 40% of profits taken
- ✗Combined with commission: Pay 5% + up to 40% = 45% total
- ✗Automatic: No way to opt out if you qualify
- ✗Matched bettors still hit: Volume bettors will trigger it
Who Pays the Expert Fee?
You pay the Expert Fee if ALL of these apply:
Profit Threshold
Last 52 Active Week Gross Profit exceeds £25,000
"Active week" = any week where you bet
Lifetime Profit
Lifetime Gross Profit is greater than £0
Must be profitable overall since account opened
Market Activity
Lifetime Markets Bet is more than 100
Prevents new accounts from being hit immediately
Expert Fee Rates
| 52-Week Gross Profit | Expert Fee Rate | Total Cost (5% + Fee) |
|---|---|---|
| Less than £25,000 | 0% | 5% commission only |
| £25,000 to £100,000 | 20% | ~25% of profits |
| Over £100,000 | 40% | ~45% of profits |
⚠️ Important: The Expert Fee is calculated to ensure your total fees (commission + Expert Fee) equal the target percentage of gross profit. It's not just added on top.