The latest changes made to UK gambling duties have created plenty of debate around bingo. At first glance, you could fall into the trap of believing that the industry has escaped the worst of the tax shake-up, which is true, but in one specific area. From April 1, 2026, Bingo Duty will be abolished. This also means that different products will be taxed separately.
A Win For Bingo Halls
The biggest winners right now are traditional bingo halls. Bingo Duty had been charging 10% on profits made, so by removing the duty, it will ease pressure on operators. The government have been quick to suggest the move is designed to support the community-based sector, as it should help to protect around 7,000 jobs and support around 250 bingo halls across the UK.
This all matters because bingo halls are about more than just playing bingo. They’re renowned for being social spaces within communities, particularly for older people. With the duty being scrapped, clubs will have more money to spend on their venues, meaning they can keep prices competitive while improving the overall experience. In the long-term, this could see the decline of bingo halls halted.
Why Online Bingo Is A Different Story
Online bingo is where the issue becomes more nuanced. Although bingo duty is being wiped out, online bingo won’t benefit from this in the same way as bingo halls. Remote gambling duty will climb from 21% to 40% from April 1, 2026, and online bingo sits within this category. In other words, land-based bingo operations get tax relief, but online bingo operators face a heavier tax burden than they did previously.
In reality, the picture is positive for bingo halls. But for online bingo brands, it’s more mixed. It’s been suggested online bingo will be in a better position to cope than other operations falling under the remote gaming category, because bingo players often spend less, play for longer and come for the social element as much as the chance to win. However, online bingo operators will have to have a major rethink regardless.
What This Means For Players
For players who visit bingo halls, things could improve dramatically in the coming months because the savings being made can be reinvested into the halls to improve the experience while also allowing for price adjustments. Bingo halls now having breathing space is a huge positive, and players should benefit as a result.
Online players may not be in the same favourable position. With remote gambling nearly doubling, operators are going to have to make significant changes if they’re to continue. This could affect the bonuses and even prizes that are up for grabs. Online bingo won’t disappear, but it could have to pivot, and some players may decide the fresh approach taken isn’t for them.
Final Thoughts
Bingo is a game that’s been played in the UK for decades. In recent times, there has been a significant decline where bingo halls are concerned, with online bingo becoming the way most people play. But with that, the social element of bingo and the feeling of community were lost. The new tax changes could reverse the pecking order, with bingo halls set to be in a much stronger position from April 1. Still, the impact on online bingo remains to be seen, with the remote gambling duty rise likely to change the industry forever.