Guide to Self-Exclusion - A Responsible Gambling Tool

Gambling is meant to be fun. But for some it can spiral into a destructive habit. If you’ve found yourself constantly chasing losses, lying about your gambling, or feeling restless when you're not placing bets, it might be time to consider taking action.

One of the most effective and practical ways to protect yourself when gambling online and in person is the self-exclusion tool. In this guide, we discuss:

• What Self-Exclusion Is: Learn how self-exclusion works and decide if it’s the right choice for managing your gambling.
• Using Self-Exclusion Effectively: We go over the different types of self-exclusion options, from online tools to in-person bans.
• Building a Relapse Prevention Plan: Discover practical steps, tools, and support networks to keep you on track and prevent relapse.

Table of Contents

• What is Self-Exclusion? - A clear definition of self-exclusion and how it can restrict your access to gambling platforms to prevent impulsive behaviour.
• Why Self-Exclusion is Important - Highlights how self-exclusion empowers you to reduce gambling opportunities and gain control over your behaviour.
• Types of Self-Exclusion - Explore various self-exclusion methods, including online, platform-specific, and physical venue bans.
• Steps to Self-Exclude from Online Casinos - A step-by-step guide to initiating self-exclusion on online gambling sites.
• Blocking Gambling on Mobile Devices - Useful apps and tools to limit access to gambling content on your mobile devices.
• What Happens to Your Funds? - Understand how online casinos handle your funds during self-exclusion and how to retrieve them.
• Differences Between Self-Exclusion & Account Closure - A comparison between self-exclusion and account closure, so you can pick the right option for your needs.
• What Strategies Can Be Used to Prevent Relapse? - Practical advice on avoiding relapse, managing triggers, and building a strong support network.
• Worldwide Self-Exclusion Contacts List - A comprehensive list of self-exclusion organisations by region, including direct links.
• Conclusion: Self-Exclusion is One of Many Tools Available - Reinforces the importance of a holistic approach to responsible gambling, beyond just self-exclusion, and provides additional materials.

What is Self-Exclusion?

Self-exclusion is a straightforward way to take control of your gambling. It’s a process where you ask a gambling operator - whether it’s an online site or a physical casino - to block your access to their services. This means you won’t be able to log in, make bets, or even receive marketing messages.

If you’re looking for a clear line in the sand, self-exclusion is it.

How Self-Exclusion Works

Self-exclusion is a voluntary program, but once you sign up, it’s usually binding. You contact the gambling site, betting shop, or casino directly, and ask them to lock you out for a set period. Options typically range from 6 months to 5 years, and some programs even offer a permanent ban.

During that time, your access is restricted. Online, this could mean you’re barred from logging into your account or creating new ones on the same platform. If you self-exclude at a physical venue, you’re essentially putting yourself on their “do not admit” list.

Why Self-Exclusion Is Important

Self-exclusion is an effective and logical way to protect vulnerable people. For anyone looking to take control of their gambling habits, it is a crucial part of the process.

Reduction of Opportunities to Gamble

By self-excluding, you limit your exposure to gambling platforms and therefore the temptation to gamble. This physical and digital barrier is a powerful deterrent, especially during vulnerable moments.

Empowerment and Control

Taking this step will help you (or anyone with a gambling problem) proactively take control of the situation. Fostering this sense of control is crucial in recovery; agency builds confidence and reinforces commitment to your goal.

Support for Recovery

When combined with counselling and support groups, self-exclusion is an important part of a comprehensive recovery plan. We’ll go over this in more depth in our section on What Strategies Can Be Used to Prevent Relapse? For now, it’s crucial to see self-exclusion as a single cog in a larger machine that helps you control your gambling habits.

We also have a guide on How to Handle a Gambling Problem if you would like to learn more about this topic.

Types of Self-Exclusion

Depending on your gambling habits, the platforms you use, and your geographic location, you may choose one of a number of self-exclusion options. If you’re curious about the different types, we’ll provide overviews below.

Online Gambling Self-Exclusion

There are global programs that block your access to multiple online gambling platforms worldwide. And there are region-specific programs. These are tailored to particular jurisdictions, like with GamStop in the UK.

Self-Exclusion from Specific Platforms

Many online casinos (and sportsbooks) offer built-in self-exclusion tools. You can find these in their Responsible Gambling pages. Using these tools you can request that the casino limits your access. Some platforms may require you to contact customer support directly to initiate self-exclusion.

Ban from Physical Gambling Venues

You can visit land-based casinos or betting shops and request to be entered into their self-exclusion program. There are also what’s called “Multi-Operator Self Exclusion Schemes” (MOSES) which will exclude you from many physical venues simultaneously.

Steps to Self-Exclude from Online Casinos

Looking to enrol in a self-exclusion program? Even though the responsible gambling practices of online casinos differ by jurisdiction, there is a “typical” process you can follow.

Here’s what you do:

1. Log Into Your Account: Go to your online casino account - or all of your accounts, if you have multiple. Make sure you’re logged in.
2. Navigate to the Responsible Gambling Page: Locate the ‘Responsible Gambling’ page. It is typically in the footer of the website or within your account dashboard.
3. Select the Self-Exclusion Option: This will either be labelled specifically as a “Self-Exclusion” option, or a “Limit Your Play” option.
4. Choose the Duration: You get to decide on the length of your self-exclusion period. Commonly, you’ll get to select either six months, a year, five years, or a permanent exclusion.
5. Confirm Your Decision: You’ll be shown a set of T&Cs. Read through them, and then confirm your request.
6. Verification Process: Be prepared to provide ID documents. This is just to make sure the owner of the account is the one requesting self-exclusion.
7. Document Confirmation: Once your documents are approved, you should then be unable to access your account.

Blocking Gambling on Mobile Devices

What if you gamble on your mobile? It’s a relevant concern since it means you can access online gambling almost whenever you want. But there are a few solutions. Here are a few tools to help curb your access to mobile gambling platforms.

Download Exclusion Apps

An effective way to block access on your mobile is to download one of these apps:

• Gamban: This blocks access to all gambling sites and apps across your devices.
• GamBlock: Similar to Gamban, it prevents you from accessing gambling sites and apps on your devices.

To download these apps, visit their websites and download whichever is compatible with your device. All you have to do is activate the app by creating an account and setting your preferences.

Use Parental Controls

These work similarly to the exclusion apps. However, since they were primarily designed to restrict what minors can search online, they sometimes apply more broadly to adult content. Here are some good options:

• BetFilter: This is a parental control tool that blocks access to gambling content across your home network.
• Net Nanny: This offers comprehensive parental controls and includes the ability to block gambling websites and apps.

What Happens to Your Funds?

Alright, you’ve hit the self-exclude button. No more logging in, no more gambling. But what about your money left in the account? That’s your cash sitting there, and you need to know what happens to it. Here’s the lowdown.

Your Account Balance: What It Means During Self-Exclusion

Once you initiate self-exclusion, your casino account should freeze. Your funds aren’t supposed to vanish. Most reputable casinos, especially those licensed by authorities like the UK Gambling Commission (UKGC) or regulated in the EU, are legally required to protect your balance. This means any leftover cash should be safe and available for withdrawal - if you follow the right steps.

In some regions, regulations get pretty strict. For example, the UKGC has strict guidelines that tell casinos they must honour any remaining balances for self-excluded players. But regulations vary, especially in places like the US where state laws differ. Always check the fine print on your platform to avoid surprises.

Common Scenarios for Handling Your Funds

You’ll get access to your funds in one of three ways:

• Immediate Withdrawal: If you contact customer support right after self-excluding, you can usually withdraw any leftover cash. Be prepared to verify your identity—this is standard anti-money laundering stuff. Some sites even let you complete this withdrawal directly through your account dashboard.
• Donation or Forfeiture: Some casinos may have policies where, after a certain period, unclaimed funds are forfeited or donated to a responsible gambling charity. They usually won’t warn you about this, so don’t wait around. If you’re self-excluding, check your balance and withdraw promptly.
• Regulatory Transfer: In some cases, funds from inactive accounts end up going to regulatory authorities. This is common in highly regulated regions, especially where the casino holds unclaimed funds for extended periods. This scenario isn’t ideal, but it can happen if you delay withdrawing.

Steps to Get Your Money Out

Getting your money back doesn’t have to be a hassle. The process is usually straightforward. Just follow these steps:

• Contact Customer Support: Start by reaching out to the casino’s customer service—most have live chat, email, or phone support for handling funds during self-exclusion. Tell them you want to withdraw any remaining balance. They’ll guide you through the process.
• Verify Your Identity: Be ready to upload some ID documents. Casinos often need proof of identity to process withdrawals, especially for self-excluded accounts. It’s a standard security measure to protect both you and the casino.
• Request a Confirmation: Once the withdrawal is in motion, ask for confirmation—an email or message that shows your request went through. Save this for your records. If anything goes sideways, you’ve got proof you tried.
• Check the Timeline: If they’re dragging their feet on processing, don’t hesitate to follow up. In most cases, withdrawals for self-excluded accounts should take no longer than a standard payout. But some casinos may stall, so keep them accountable.

Here are a couple of useful links where you can find more information:

• UK Gambling Commission: Offers a breakdown of your rights as a self-excluded player in the UK.
• National Council on Problem Gambling (US): Includes resources and support for gambling addiction, with insights on US state regulations.

Differences Between Self-Exclusion & Account Closure

You may be wondering whether you should self-exclude or simply delete your account. There are some meaningful differences we think you ought to be aware of.

Here’s a comparison:

It’s important to choose the option that is best for you. We recommend you reflect on your gambling habits and decide if you need a broad restriction across multiple platforms, or just need to end your relationship with a single provider.

What Strategies Can Be Used to Prevent Relapse?

Let’s face it, recovery from something as serious as gambling addiction is likely to be a bumpy road. The cravings don’t disappear just because you hit “self-exclude.” To keep from falling back into old habits, the best approach is to include self-exclusion as one piece in a broader strategy.

Here are some practical, empirically backed methods to help keep your progress steady, even when things get tough.

Managing & Identifying Triggers

First thing’s first - know your triggers. Triggers are the situations, emotions, or environments that spark your urge to gamble. Stress? Boredom? Alcohol? They’re all common. Start paying attention to when you feel like gambling the most - it’s usually during specific times or after certain events. When you understand your patterns you’re halfway there.

The other half of the journey involves managing your triggers. So, what do you do when they hit? That’s where coping mechanisms come in.

Here are a few that are popular and have been helpful:

• Alternative Activities: Find stuff you genuinely enjoy. It could be something physical like working out, creative like painting, or calming like gardening. The key is that it fills your time and gives you a dopamine boost, the same one gambling tries to hijack.
• Stress Management: Stress is a major trigger, so learning how to handle it can make a huge difference. Try mindfulness exercises, deep breathing, or meditation. Even short sessions can calm your mind and reduce cravings.
• Delay Tactics: Cravings don’t last forever, so try a delay tactic. When you feel the urge to gamble, set a timer for 10 minutes. Tell yourself you can revisit the idea after that. Chances are, by the end, you’ll have moved on or at least dulled the craving.

Establishing a Support Network

Kicking a problem gambling habit is easier when you don’t have to do it alone. Support networks can make all the difference when trying to break the habit.

Here’s what helps:

• Join a Support Group: Groups like Gamblers Anonymous (GA) offer a safe space to talk about your challenges. You’re surrounded by people who get it, and you can learn from each other’s experiences. Plus, sharing your wins (and setbacks) helps keep you accountable.
• Professional Counselling: Therapy is a solid tool for anyone who wants to understand their behaviours better. Cognitive-behavioural therapy (CBT), in particular, has been shown to help prevent relapse by breaking down destructive thought patterns. A professional can help you see your blind spots and give you tailored strategies.

Using Financial Controls

Another direction you can go is limiting your access to funds. Since gambling thrives on easy cash flow, making it harder to access your money can be effective.

Here are a few practical solutions:

• Limit Access to Cash and Credit: Move money into an account that’s not linked to your debit card. Use cash-only budgeting for everyday expenses so you can’t dip into gambling funds easily.
• Accountability Partner: Consider asking a friend or family member to keep an eye on your finances. They don’t need to control your money, just help you stay accountable. It’s a pain to admit, but sometimes you need someone who’ll ask the hard questions.

Worldwide Self-Exclusion Contacts List

Europe

United States

Canada

Latin America (LATAM)

Conclusion: Self-Exclusion is One of Many Tools Available

Taking control of your gambling habits is no small feat, but self-exclusion can be a powerful first step. It’s a straightforward way to protect yourself from impulsive behaviour by setting real, concrete boundaries.

Self-exclusion works best as part of a broader strategy - one that includes practical safeguards, support networks and responsible gambling practices.

In conclusion, here are the three key takeaways:

• Self-Exclusion Works, But Use It Wisely: Self-exclusion limits your access to gambling, and that can make a big difference when you’re feeling vulnerable. But remember, this option is usually permanent for the chosen period—make sure it’s the right step for you.
• Build a Relapse Prevention Plan: Self-exclusion is effective, but it’s just one tool in a larger kit. Managing triggers, practising alternative activities, and setting up financial safeguards can go a long way in keeping you on track.
• Responsible Gambling is a Lifelong Practice: Staying safe means sticking to responsible gambling practices in the long run. Setting limits, recognising red flags, and using self-exclusion are all part of an ongoing approach to gaming responsibly.

If you want to learn more about whether you or a friend might benefit from self-exclusion and other responsible gambling tools, check out our guide on the Early Indicators of Problem Gambling for more information.