The short version: Kalshi's trading fee is a curve, not a flat percent. It peaks near 50¢ (where outcomes are most uncertain) and approaches zero at 1¢ and 99¢. A round-trip on a 50¢ contract costs roughly 1.4%. ACH deposits and withdrawals are free.
Worked example: a 50¢ contract
You buy 100 YES contracts at 50¢ each. Notional: $50. Kalshi charges roughly $0.35 in fees (~0.7% one-way). You exit at 60¢ — another ~$0.35 round-trip. Net: $10.00 gross profit minus ~$0.70 in fees = $9.30. The closer you trade to the edges (1¢ or 99¢), the lower the fee in absolute and relative terms.
Kalshi vs Polymarket fees
| Cost | Kalshi | Polymarket |
|---|---|---|
| Trading fee | Scaled, peak ~0.7% one-way | 0% protocol |
| Deposit | ACH free · debit small fee | USDC bridging + gas |
| Withdrawal | Free ACH | USDC network fees |
| Tax doc | 1099 issued | Self-report |
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See the live fee schedule in your account when you place an order — Kalshi shows the exact fee before you confirm. New to event contracts? How to use Kalshi from Texas.
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