Payout differences often arise because the wager amount placed doesn't match the industry standard base wager, typically $2. For example, a $1 bet pays half the listed amount. Exacta, Trifecta, and similar wagers usually show a base amount. Illinois state taxes may reduce payouts, and scratches can affect winnings. Always verify your bets online via your account history or bet review.
Sometimes questions come up about the amount of a payout or why you received a certain payout. Usually, the main reason a payout looks different is because the wager amount you placed doesn't match the amount the payoff is based on.
For example, if you bet $1 to win on a horse and check the results on our site, you might expect to get paid that full amount. However, the industry standard payout for win, place, or show bets is based on a $2.00 wager. If no base wager amount is listed, it’s typically $2. In these cases, since you bet $1, which is half of $2, your payout will be half of the listed amount.
Usually, Exactas, Trifectas, Superfectas, and Pick wagers show a base amount before the winning runners and payout. For example: $1 ex 4,5 $24.50
If you receive less than the track payout, it might be due to state taxes if you live in Illinois. Typically, the host track covers this through "breakage" (the leftover pennies after the track rounds off payments). Sometimes there isn’t enough breakage to cover the tax for everyone, so you might see a small amount deducted from your winnings.
Scratches can also affect your payout, especially if they happen late. To learn how the host track handles these situations, please visit: here
When placing wagers online, it’s a good idea to double-check your bets to make sure they were placed correctly. You can review your wagers by going to your bets or checking your account history through your browser or the app.