Competition
Competition rules
Ask which league or cup rules apply and whether they set a referee fee or say who pays it. Check the current rules with the competition if the brief is unclear.
Referee guide
Grassroots football referee match fees in England
There is no single match fee to assume across grassroots football in England. Berks & Bucks FA's published guidance lists £20–£55 for adult games and £10–£45 for youth games, and says the fee varies by league. These are examples from Berks & Bucks; fees vary by competition. Check your competition's current rules and agree the fee before accepting a match. Source checked 28 September 2026.
What changes the fee you are offered?
When you compare fixtures, check the details behind the amount rather than relying on a general average.
Age group
Age group
The Berks & Bucks example gives different ranges for adult and youth matches. Confirm the fixture's age group and the rate that applies to it.
Format
Match format
Check whether the fixture is small-sided or 11-a-side and whether assistant referees are appointed. Use the competition's fee guidance for that particular format.
Travel and expenses: Ask whether the stated amount includes travel, or whether expenses are paid separately. Include the journey when deciding if a fixture suits you.
Checklist before accepting a fixture
Before agreeing to officiate, check these details with the organiser or appointing competition:
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Fee
Confirm the exact amount and check it against any applicable competition rules.
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Payer
Confirm who is responsible for paying you under the competition's arrangements.
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Payment timing
Agree when and how you will be paid, including whether payment is by cash or bank transfer.
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Travel inclusion
Check whether the stated fee includes travel or whether expenses are paid separately.
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Arrival details
Verify the date, kick-off time, ground and postcode. Find out how you will receive match-day contact details once the appointment is confirmed.
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Cancellation terms
Ask what, if anything, is payable if the fixture is postponed or called off, including after you have travelled.
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Eligibility and competition process
Check the competition's appointment, age-group, safeguarding and match-reporting requirements before agreeing to the game.
How match fees work on RefSorted
RefSorted is a football referee marketplace. Teams post fixtures directly with the date, kick-off time, venue, format, requirements and offered match fee. Referees review suitable listings and apply; the team reviews applications and confirms one referee. An application is not a booking.
The posting team pays the referee directly outside RefSorted. RefSorted charges a £0 platform fee during the pilot and does not collect, hold, process or guarantee match-fee payments. Check the offered fee and payment terms against the competition's rules before committing. Posting a fixture does not guarantee cover.