How Bank Gambling Blocks Can Help You Manage Your Spending

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9 min read
iconAug 9, 2024, 3:16 PMicon
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If you or someone you know is battling gambling addiction, contact the National Council on Problem Gambling (NCPG) or Gamblers Anonymous. For immediate support call 1-800-GAMBLER.

Our resources are here to help prevent problem gambling habits before they start.

What is a Gambling Block?

A gambling block is a feature offered by some banks and financial institutions that allows customers to restrict or prevent gambling transactions on their accounts.

This responsible gambling tool is designed to help individuals manage their spending and potentially curb problematic gambling behavior. Gambling blocks can be applied to various financial products, including eligible personal credit cards, debit cards, and sometimes even entire bank accounts.

When a gambling block is activated, it typically prevents transactions with merchants categorized as gambling-related businesses.

This can include online casinos, sports betting websites, physical casinos, and lottery ticket vendors. The block identifies and declines transactions based on the merchant category code associated with gambling payments.

How Do Gambling Blocks Work?

Gambling blocks function by utilizing the merchant category codes (MCCs) assigned to businesses. When a customer attempts to make a purchase, the merchant's MCC is transmitted as part of the transaction authorization request. 

If the MCC corresponds to a gambling-related business and a gambling block is in place, the transaction will be declined.

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The blocking process occurs in real-time, typically within seconds of the transaction being initiated.

The block applies to both online and in-person transactions, provided the merchant is correctly categorized. Some gambling-related transactions may slip through if the merchant is miscategorized or uses a different MCC.

Gambling blocks can be applied to various financial products:

  • Credit Cards: Most commonly, gambling blocks are available for credit cards. When activated, the block prevents the use of the card for gambling transactions.
  • Debit Cards: Some banks offer gambling blocks for debit cards, which operate similarly to credit card blocks.
  • Bank Accounts: In some cases, banks may offer gambling blocks that apply to entire deposit accounts, preventing transfers to known gambling merchants.

Benefits of Using a Gambling Block

Implementing a gambling block can offer several benefits to individuals seeking to manage their gambling habits or protect themselves from potential gambling-related financial issues.

  1. Gambling blocks provide a barrier to impulsive betting behavior. By making it more difficult to access gambling services, individuals may have more time to reconsider their actions before engaging in gambling activities.
  2. These blocks can serve as a practical tool for those actively trying to overcome gambling addiction. By restricting easy access to gambling services, individuals can focus on their recovery without the constant temptation of readily available betting options.
  3. Gambling blocks can help prevent financial hardship related to excessive gambling. By limiting the ability to use credit or debit cards for gambling transactions, individuals can avoid accumulating gambling debts or depleting their savings.
  4. For parents or guardians, gambling blocks can provide peace of mind by preventing underage individuals from accessing gambling services using a family member's financial accounts.
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Gambling blocks are not just about restriction; they're about empowering individuals to take control of their financial well-being.

Setting Up a Gambling Block

The process of setting up a gambling block can vary depending on the bank and the type of financial product involved. 

However, there are generally several common steps:

  1. Contact Your Bank: Most banks allow customers to set up gambling blocks by contacting their customer care team. This can often be done via phone, online chat, or in-person at a branch.
  2. Online Banking: Many banks now offer the option to activate gambling blocks through their online banking platforms or mobile apps. This feature is typically found in the card services or account settings menu.
  3. Specify Products: When setting up the block, you may need to specify which products you want the block to apply to (e.g., specific credit cards, debit cards, or all cards linked to your account).
  4. Verification: Banks may require identity verification before activating the gambling block to ensure the request is legitimate.
  5. Confirmation: Once the block is set up, you should receive confirmation from your bank, either immediately or within a few business days.

For example, Wells Fargo allows customers to set up gambling blocks on their credit cards through their online banking portal. 

Customers can navigate to the card services menu and select the option to block gambling transactions.

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It's important to note that for joint accounts or supplementary cards, the process may be different. In many cases, only the primary cardholder can request a gambling block for all cards on the account.

Managing Your Spending with a Gambling Block

While a gambling block can be an effective tool for managing gambling-related spending, it's important to remember that it's just one part of a comprehensive approach to financial management.

In addition to activating a gambling block, individuals may want to consider the following strategies:

  • Budgeting: Create a detailed budget that accounts for all income and expenses. This can help identify areas where overspending might occur.
  • Alternative Payment Methods: For necessary expenses, consider using payment methods that don't have gambling blocks, ensuring that the block doesn't interfere with regular financial activities.
  • Cash Management: Be mindful of cash withdrawals, as gambling blocks typically don't prevent the use of cash for gambling activities.
  • Regular Review: Periodically review bank statements and transaction histories to ensure the gambling block is working as intended and to identify any potential workarounds.
  • Seek Support: If gambling is causing financial hardship, consider reaching out to financial counseling services or access responsible gambling resources such as support groups and addiction hotlines.

While gambling blocks can be effective, they are not foolproof. Some individuals may find ways to circumvent these blocks, such as using e-wallets or cryptocurrencies for gambling transactions.

Overcoming Challenges with a Gambling Block

While gambling blocks can be beneficial, users may encounter some challenges:

  • False Positives: Sometimes, legitimate transactions may be incorrectly identified as gambling-related and blocked. This can occur if a merchant is miscategorized or if the transaction shares characteristics with gambling transactions.
  • Incomplete Coverage: Gambling blocks may not catch all gambling-related transactions, particularly if the merchant uses a non-standard category code.
  • Multiple Accounts: If an individual has accounts with multiple banks, they would need to set up gambling blocks with each institution separately.
  • Workarounds: Some users might attempt to circumvent the block by using alternative payment methods or asking others to gamble on their behalf.
  • Removal Process: The process for removing a gambling block can sometimes be lengthy, which can be frustrating if the block was set up unintentionally or if circumstances have changed.

To address these challenges, users can:

  • Keep alternative payment methods available for legitimate transactions.
  • Regularly communicate with their bank about any issues or concerns.
  • Consider implementing additional personal strategies to manage gambling habits.

Common Banks that Offer Gambling Blocks

Many banks now offer gambling block features, although the specifics can vary. 

Here are some examples of banks that provide this service:

  • Bank of America: Offers gambling blocks on credit cards through their online banking platform.
  • Wells Fargo: Provides a gambling block feature for credit cards, accessible via online banking.
  • Capital One: Allows customers to block gambling transactions on their credit cards.
  • Barclays (US): Offers a gambling block feature for their credit card customers.
  • Chase: Provides options to block gambling transactions on credit cards.

It's important to note that the availability and specifics of gambling blocks can change over time. Customers should check with their individual banks for the most up-to-date information on gambling block features.

Some banks may also offer more comprehensive financial well-being tools that include gambling blocks as part of a larger suite of spending management features.

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The introduction of gambling blocks by major banks represents a significant step towards promoting responsible gambling and financial wellness

Conclusion

Bank gambling blocks represent a technological solution to help individuals manage their gambling activities and protect their financial well-being. 

These blocks work by preventing transactions with merchants categorized as gambling-related businesses, offering a barrier against impulsive betting behavior and potential financial harm.

While gambling blocks can be an effective tool, they are not without challenges. False positives, incomplete coverage, and potential workarounds mean that gambling blocks should be viewed as part of a broader strategy for managing gambling habits and overall financial health.

Ultimately, the effectiveness of gambling blocks depends on individual circumstances and commitment.

For those struggling with gambling addiction, these tools can provide valuable support, but they should be used in conjunction with other resources.

Bank Blocks FAQ

Cash Withdrawals

Can I still withdraw cash from ATMs with a gambling block in place?

Generally, yes. Gambling blocks typically only prevent transactions directly with gambling merchants. ATM withdrawals are usually not affected.

Lottery Tickets

Will a gambling block prevent me from buying lottery tickets?

In many cases, yes. Lottery ticket vendors are often categorized as gambling merchants. However, this can depend on how the vendor is categorized in the payment system.

Gambling Blocks on Others

Can I set up a gambling block on someone else's account?

Typically, no. Gambling blocks are usually set up by the account holder or primary cardholder for their own accounts.

Speed of Gambling Blocks

How quickly does a gambling block take effect once activated?

This can vary by bank, but many gambling blocks take effect immediately or within 24 hours of activation.

Credit Score Effects

Will a gambling block affect my credit score?

No, activating or deactivating a gambling block does not directly impact your credit score.

Everything You Need About Responsible Gambling

Meet our Authors

Paruyr Shahbazyan started his business career as an entrepreneur in 2000. Over 13 years, he learned business and leadership, which laid the foundation for his career.

In 2013, Paruyr entered the sports and betting industry as the founder and president of Bookmaker Rating, an online media platform he led until 2020. The platform focuses on in-depth analysis and insights in sports betting and has gained a reputation for quality content.

In 2022, Paruyr co-founded Azuro, a decentralized betting protocol. This shows his commitment to technology in the sports betting space. Through all these experiences, Paruyr has been shaping and influencing the betting industry, setting new trends and standards.

Innovation in sportsbetting comes from a deep understanding of both technology and the human element of sports.

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Sol Fayerman-Hansen
Sol Fayerman-Hansen
Editor-in-Chief

With 20+ years of writing experience across sports, gambling, regulation, technology, and startups, Sol brings a broad understanding to his role as Editor-in-Chief at RG. His work provides clear, factual information to help readers make informed decisions about gambling. Sol’s approach is about transparency and research, so the content at RG is straightforward, evidence-based, and accessible.

At RG, Sol keeps the focus on the reader by maintaining a standard of reliability and integrity in the information shared. Under his editorial direction, RG aims to provide practical insights into sports and sports entertainment that support a balanced and informed approach. Sol’s approach has helped RG become a go-to source for readers looking to engage responsibly and thoughtfully in the industry.

Cristina Varela Galan
Cristina Varela Galan
Problem Gambling Expert

Cristina used to work as a Psychology Assistant in the Bizkaia Pathological and Risky Gamblers Association. She was also part of a research team in Deusto University, specializing in pathological gambling area. While working there, she managed to develop her own project 

 “Exploring the association between emotional regulation, alexithymia, stressful life events and gambling in adolescent and young adult women”.

Nick Ashbourne
Nick Ashbourne
Senior Writer

Nick has been fascinated with sports since he was first taken to a Toronto Maple Leafs game in 1998, and he's been writing about them professionally since 2014.

Nick has covered baseball and hockey for outlets like The Athletic, Sportsnet, and Yahoo Sports while growing his expertise in sports data analysis and research. 

Between 2022 and 2023, he worked for a betting startup called NorthStar Bets. In 2024, he contributed to Oddspedia before joining the RG team.

Sergey Demidov
Sergey Demidov
Head of News Department

Sergey has been in sports journalism since 2007 as a reporter, editor, and manager. He has covered the Olympic Games, soccer World Cups, the World Cup of Hockey in 2016, the European championships, the Stanley Cup Finals, IOC events, and many others. Sergey interviewed the sport's greatest athletes, coaches, and executives. Since 2016, he has been an Independent Senior Editor of NHL.com/ru.

Anna Kravtcova
Anna Kravtcova
Problem Gambling Expert

Ph.D. in organizational psychology, an internationally certified psychologist (EuroPsy 2022, Cognitive behavioural therapy of mindfulness 2020, International Society for Emotional Intelligence 2017, Russian Psychological society 2014, American Psychological Association(Society for Industrial and Organizational Psychologist) 2011), speaker of many international conferences (USA, Brazil, Portugal, Czech Republic, Russia, etc.). TEDx speaker.

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