No More Hidden Fees: FTC’s New Rule Demands Pricing Transparency in Tickets and Lodging

In a decisive move to protect consumers and promote transparency, the Federal Trade Commission’s (FTC) new rule banning hidden “junk fees” took effect on May 12, 2025. This regulation mandates that businesses in the live-event ticketing and short-term lodging industries disclose all mandatory fees upfront, ensuring that consumers are not blindsided by additional costs at checkout.

Ticketmaster, a dominant player in the ticketing industry, has responded by implementing “all-in pricing,” displaying the total cost of tickets—including all fees—from the outset of the purchasing process. This change aims to simplify price comparisons and eliminate the frustration of unexpected charges. Additionally, Ticketmaster has introduced features such as real-time updates during long wait times and clear indicators of a customer’s position in the purchasing queue.

The FTC’s rule also impacts the lodging sector, requiring hotels and short-term rental platforms to present the full price, inclusive of resort fees and other mandatory charges, at the time of booking. This initiative is part of a broader effort to enhance price transparency across various industries.

While the rule has been lauded for its consumer-centric approach, it has also sparked discussions about regulatory overreach and the potential impact on business operations. Critics argue that such regulations may stifle innovation and impose undue burdens on companies.

As the rule takes effect, consumers are encouraged to stay informed and report any violations to the FTC. Businesses, in turn, must adapt to these changes to ensure compliance and maintain consumer trust.

Source: Federal Trade Commission