Struggling with Gambling Addiction? Support is Available.
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.
The Self-Exclusion Process
Self-exclusion is a responsible gambling tool enabling bettors to choose to ban themselves from participating in gaming activities.
This process is designed for those who recognize they may have a problem or wish to take preventive measures.
Self-exclusion typically begins with a person deciding to stop gambling for a specific period of time, or indefinitely.
This can involve filling out a self-exclusion form, either online or in person at a licensed facility. The form usually requires personal information and specifics about the desired exclusion period.
How to Self-Exclude
To self-exclude, individuals generally follow these steps:
Decide on the duration of self-exclusion
- Choose the scope of exclusion (e.g., specific casinos, online platforms, or all gambling establishments in a jurisdiction).
- Complete a self exclusion form, providing necessary personal details.
- Submit the form to the relevant authority or directly to gambling operators.
For example, in New Jersey, individuals can self-exclude from internet gaming and sports wagering by visiting the Division of Gaming Enforcement website and completing an online form.
Alternatively, they can visit a casino or racetrack and request assistance from a gamesense advisor to complete the process in person.
Benefits and Considerations
Self-exclusion can provide several benefits for those struggling with gambling issues.
It creates a barrier to accessing gambling services, potentially reducing the risk of financial losses and other negative consequences associated with problem gambling.
However, individuals should consider that self-exclusion is a serious commitment and it is part of a strong responsible gambling plan. Once enrolled, they are typically prohibited from collecting any winnings or recovering losses if they violate the exclusion terms.
This measure aims to reinforce the seriousness of the self-exclusion agreement.
Self Exclusion List
A self-exclusion list is a database maintained by gambling regulators or operators that contains information about individuals who have chosen to self-exclude.
This list is used to enforce the self-exclusion agreement across various gambling establishments and platforms.
When a person self-excludes, their name and details are added to this list.
The self-exclusion list is a crucial tool in management and enforcement.
Managing Self Exclusion
Managing self-exclusion involves ongoing efforts from both the individual and gambling operators. For the individual, it means adhering to the terms of their agreement and seeking support if needed.
For sportsbooks, it involves regularly checking the self-exclusion list and ensuring that excluded individuals do not access their services.
Some jurisdictions offer resources to help manage self-exclusion.
For instance, Pennsylvania's Gaming Control Board provides a "Self-exclusion FAQ" section on their website.
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Duration and Removal
The duration of self-exclusion can vary. Common options include:
- One year
- Five years
- Lifetime
This policy aims to ensure the effectiveness of the self-exclusion program.
After the exclusion period ends, removal from the list is not always automatic.
In many cases, individuals must take active steps to reinstate their gambling privileges, which may include demonstrating that they have addressed their gambling issues.
Violating Self Exclusion
Violating a self-exclusion agreement can have serious consequences.
If a self-excluded person is found gambling at a casino or using an online betting platform, they may face:
- Forfeiture of any winnings
- Potential legal consequences
- Extension of their exclusion period
Gambling establishments are also held accountable for allowing self-excluded individuals to gamble.
They may face fines or other penalties from regulatory bodies for such violations.
Resources and Support
Various resources and support services are available for individuals considering or undergoing self-exclusion:
- Addiction hotlines
- Local support groups
- Professional counseling services
- Online self-help tools
These responsible gambling resources can provide guidance throughout the self-exclusion process and offer support for addressing underlying gambling issues.
Seeking help is a sign of strength, not weakness. There are many resources available to support your journey.
Help for Problem Gambling
Problem gambling, also known as compulsive or pathological gambling, is a recognized disorder that can have severe personal and financial consequences.
Signs of problem gambling may include:
- Preoccupation with gambling
- Needing to gamble with increasing amounts of money
- Unsuccessful attempts to cut back or stop gambling
- Lying to family members or others about gambling habits
Self-exclusion is just one tool available to those dealing with problem gambling. However, it's often most effective when combined with other forms of support, such as counseling or participation in support groups.
Self-Exclusion FAQ
Understanding Self-Exclusion Options
Can I exclude from specific forms of gambling only?
This depends on the jurisdiction. Some allow partial exclusion (e.g., from online gambling only), while others require full exclusion from all forms of legalized gaming activities.
Family Involvement in Self-Exclusion
Can a family member enroll someone in a self-exclusion program?
Generally, no. Self-exclusion is a voluntary process that must be initiated by the individual themselves.
Consequences of Violating Self-Exclusion
What happens if I try to gamble while self-excluded?
You will be prohibited from collecting any winnings and may face other consequences as outlined in the self-exclusion terms.
Self-Exclusion Across State Lines
Does my self-exclusion in one state apply to other states?
Typically, self-exclusion is specific to the state or jurisdiction where you enrolled. However, some multi-state agreements exist. Check with your local gaming commission for specific details.
Anonymity in Self-Exclusion
Will my personal information be kept confidential if I self-exclude?
Yes, gambling operators and regulatory bodies treat self-exclusion information as sensitive information. However, your details will be shared with relevant gambling establishments to enforce the exclusion.
Everything You Need About Responsible Gambling
The Facts About Underage Gambling: Risks and Regulations
Your Guide to Safe Gambling: Tips for a Responsible Gaming Experience
Understanding Deposit Limits: A Guide to Managing Your Online Gambling Spending
How to Set and Manage Effective Gambling Time Limits
Meet our Responsible Gambling Experts
Paruyr Shahbazyan
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.
Strategic Vision
Paruyr's vision is to revolutionize the sports entertainment industry by integrating technology. He sees the future of sports entertainment as a blend of traditional sports knowledge with innovative tech solutions, like decentralized protocols, to enhance user experience and fairness. He aims to create platforms that are not only user-friendly but also uphold the highest standards of ethical reporting, contributing to a more responsible and enjoyable sports culture.
Sol Fayerman-Hansen
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 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 has been fascinated with sports since he was first taken to a Toronto Maple Leafs game back in 1998, and he's written about them professionally since 2014.
Nick has covered baseball and hockey for outlets like The Athletic, Sportsnet, and Yahoo Sports, and his sports betting expertise has grown since its legalization in Ontario in 2022.
Between 2022 and 2023 he worked for a betting startup called NorthStar Bets, and in 2024 he contributed to Oddspedia before joining the RG team.
Sergey Demidov
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
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.
