Key takeaways
- Set a deposit limit before you gamble, not after a bad session.
- A time-out gives you a short pause, while self-exclusion is a longer block that is hard to undo.
- In the UK, GAMSTOP covers all licensed online operators in one registration.
- Blocking software and bank gambling blocks add protection on your devices and your money.
- Free, confidential helplines operate 24 hours a day in the UK, US and Canada.
Why use gambling tools
Gambling is meant to be entertainment, and it works best when you decide your limits before you start. The tools in this guide let you set those limits in advance, so a bad day or a long session does not decide for you.
Licensed operators in the UK, US and Canada must offer a set of these tools. The ones we explain here are available to every player. Using them does not mean you have a problem. Many careful players set a deposit limit the day they open an account.
The main tools at a glance
| Tool | What it does | How long it lasts | Cost |
|---|---|---|---|
| Deposit limit | Caps what you can pay in per day, week or month | Until you change it | Free |
| Loss limit | Caps net losses over a period | Until you change it | Free |
| Reality check | Shows a reminder of your session time | Set by you | Free |
| Time-out | Locks your account for a short period | 24 hours to several weeks | Free |
| Self-exclusion | Blocks access for a long period | Usually 6 months or more | Free |
| GAMSTOP (UK) | Self-excludes you from all UK-licensed online operators | 6 months, 1 year or 5 years | Free |
| Blocking software | Stops gambling sites and apps on your devices | While installed | BetBlocker free, Gamban paid |
| Bank gambling block | Stops card payments to gambling merchants | Until you remove it | Free with most banks |
Deposit limits
A deposit limit is the simplest tool and the one to set first. You pick a daily, weekly or monthly amount, and the operator will not accept deposits beyond it.
Most licensed sites apply a lower limit immediately but delay any increase, typically for at least 24 hours, so you cannot raise it in the heat of the moment.
Worked example: choosing a limit
Loss limits, reality checks and session timers
Loss limits stop play once your net losses reach a figure you choose. Reality checks pop up after a set time, such as every 30 minutes, to show how long you have been playing and how much you have won or lost. Most licensed casinos and sportsbooks include both in their responsible gambling settings.
Time-outs
A time-out locks your account for a fixed period, commonly 24 hours, 7 days, 30 days or longer. It ends automatically. It suits a bad run or a need to step back without a big commitment.
Self-exclusion
Self-exclusion is a longer and stricter break. Once you register, you cannot gamble with the operator or scheme for the whole period, and it is not meant to be easy to reverse.
- 1
UK: register with GAMSTOP
Go to gamstop.co.uk, create a free account and choose 6 months, 1 year or 5 years. It applies to all UK-licensed online gambling sites and apps.
- 2
Canada: use your provincial program
Each province runs its own program, usually through the provincial lottery or gaming body. Ask your operator or search for your province's voluntary self-exclusion service.
- 3
US: use your state program
States with legal betting run their own lists, usually through the state gaming regulator. Examples include the New Jersey Division of Gaming Enforcement, the Pennsylvania Gaming Control Board and the Michigan Gaming Control Board.
- 4
Also exclude at individual operators
Contact each operator you use to close accounts and request exclusion, especially if they sit outside the scheme.
- 5
Tell someone you trust
Support from a friend or family member makes it easier to stick to the plan.
Blocking software
Blocking software stops gambling websites and apps from loading on your phone, tablet or computer.
- Gamban blocks a very large number of gambling sites and apps on all your devices. It is a paid subscription for most users, and some licences are available free through support services, so check its website.
- BetBlocker is a free app for Windows, Mac, Android and iOS. A trusted person can be set as a partner to help keep it running.
Neither stops you using a different device that you have not set up, so install on every device you use.
Bank gambling blocks
Many UK banks let you block card payments to gambling merchants from within the app. Monzo, Starling, Barclays and Lloyds Banking Group are among those that offer it. The block stops the payment at the point of sale, and removing it often involves a waiting period. Check your own bank’s app or call them. Banks in the US and Canada have varying options, so ask yours about gambling merchant blocks.
Warning signs to watch for
- Gambling with money meant for bills, rent or food.
- Chasing losses with bigger bets.
- Hiding how much you gamble from family and friends.
- Feeling restless or irritable when you cannot gamble.
- Borrowing money to gamble.
If you recognise two or more, use the tools above and speak to a helpline. Asking for help early works best.
Helplines
| Region | Service | Contact |
|---|---|---|
| UK | National Gambling Helpline | 0808 8020 133, free and open 24 hours |
| UK | GAMSTOP | gamstop.co.uk |
| US | National Problem Gambling Helpline | 1-800-GAMBLER, free and confidential |
| Ontario, Canada | ConnexOntario | 1-866-531-2600, free and open 24 hours |
| Canada | Provincial programs | Search for your province’s gambling help service |
For wider help and our own standards, see our responsible gambling page.
Worked example: chasing a loss
Putting it all together
Set up your protection in the order that suits you: a deposit limit on each account first, then reality checks, then blocking software if you need a firmer barrier. If you want a long break, register with GAMSTOP or your local program. Our guides on casino bonuses and free bets explain why offers can push you to play more than you planned.
Frequently asked questions
What is a deposit limit?
It is a cap on how much you can pay into your account in a day, week or month. You set it yourself, and licensed operators must give you the option.
What is the difference between a time-out and self-exclusion?
A time-out is a short break, from 24 hours up to several weeks, and ends automatically. Self-exclusion is a longer block, usually at least six months, and is designed to be hard to reverse.
What is GAMSTOP?
GAMSTOP is the free UK self-exclusion service. Registering blocks you from online gambling with all UK-licensed operators for 6 months, 1 year or 5 years.
Is there a self-exclusion scheme in the US and Canada?
Yes, but it is run state by state in the US and province by province in Canada. Check your state or provincial gaming regulator for the scheme that applies to you.
What are Gamban and BetBlocker?
They are software that blocks gambling sites and apps on your devices. BetBlocker is free, and Gamban is a paid product, with free licences available through some schemes.
Where can I get help right now?
In the UK call the National Gambling Helpline on 0808 8020 133. In the US call 1-800-GAMBLER. In Ontario call ConnexOntario on 1-866-531-2600. All are free and confidential.
About the author
Daniel WardFounder and Editor
Daniel Ward founded BettingSeeker and is responsible for everything published on it. He has spent his career in SEO and content for online betting and casino comparison sites, and today leads SEO for a portfolio of gambling comparison sites across several countries.
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