Chicago’s city budget for 2026 will increase the fees paid for checkout bags in the city of Chicago. Starting January 1, 2026, retail stores will collect or absorb a $0.15 fee for each checkout bag given to a customer. This is an increase from the prior fee of $0.10. This also applies to bags given for use or consumption by a wholesaler to a client. For each bag sold, each retailer or wholesaler will remit only $0.14 and may retain a $0.01 commission for itself.
Stores who offer bags will need to update their systems to charge the correct amount starting January 1, 2026, or be prepared to absorb the difference. (City of Chicago Revenue Ordinance, Article II, Section 2, 3-50-030 and 3-50-050)