DraftKings and Golden Nugget have stopped accepting credit cards as a deposit option across their U.S. online casino platforms, marking a significant shift in how players fund their accounts. The change, effective August 25, 2025, also applies to their sportsbook operations, but the impact will be felt among casino players who relied on credit cards for quick deposits.
Why the Change Was Made
Both operators describe the decision as a strategic business move designed to improve the customer experience. Credit card deposits often trigger cash advance fees and high interest rates, which can leave players frustrated and paying more than they expected. By removing the option entirely, DraftKings and Golden Nugget say they hope to simplify account funding and reduce those negative experiences.
The move also comes against a backdrop of regulatory pressure. DraftKings was fined $450,000 earlier this summer by the Massachusetts Gaming Commission for processing over 1,000 credit card transactions in violation of state rules. Although the company emphasized that its nationwide policy change was not directly tied to the fine, it eliminates the risk of future violations. Golden Nugget, now owned by DraftKings, has aligned with the same policy across its online casino product.
What Players Can Use Instead
While credit cards are no longer on the table, players still have multiple funding options at both DraftKings Casino and Golden Nugget Casino. Debit cards remain available, along with ACH and wire transfers, which are especially popular among high-volume players. E-wallets like PayPal, Venmo, and Apple Pay are fully supported, and prepaid solutions such as Play+ cards provide another fast and flexible alternative. In some states, players can also deposit cash at retail casino cages or partner locations that scan a barcode linked to their account.
For most users, the transition will be relatively seamless since debit and PayPal have long been the most common funding methods. However, players who preferred credit cards for rewards points or convenience will now need to adapt.
A Broader Industry Trend
DraftKings and Golden Nugget are not alone in making this change. Operators such as Fanatics, Betr, and Sporttrade have already banned credit card funding, and several states, including Illinois and Massachusetts, have introduced rules against the practice. Regulators often cite problem gambling concerns, noting that access to credit can worsen risky behavior by allowing players to gamble with borrowed money.
For online casino players, the end of credit card deposits may feel like a step backward in convenience, but it is part of a growing industry effort to prioritize responsible gambling and compliance. Over time, these changes could become the norm rather than the exception across the U.S. market.
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