Self-Exclusion

Self-exclusion is a formal, voluntary request to be barred from gambling for a set period. You ask to be placed on a list, and the operators covered by that list must refuse your play, close or block your accounts, and stop marketing to you. It is a stronger step than a deposit limit or a short time-out, and it is designed to be hard to undo on impulse.

How does self-exclusion work?

You enrol with the body that runs the list: a state regulator, a national scheme or a single operator. You choose a term from the options the programme offers, which in many US states range from one year to lifetime. Enrolment usually requires identification and, for some lists, a photograph so that venues can recognise you. Once listed, covered operators must deny you entry or accounts for the whole term.

Which operators does a listing cover?

That depends on who runs it. An operator's own exclusion covers that operator. A state list covers the operators licensed by that state, and some states keep separate lists for land-based casinos and online play. In Great Britain, GAMSTOP covers every online operator licensed by the Gambling Commission. No single list covers everything, so it can be worth joining more than one.

What happens if a self-excluded person gambles anyway?

Programmes differ, but many state rules say a listed person cannot collect winnings, and that money staked or won can be forfeited. Operators can also face penalties for letting a listed person play. The consequence is meant to remove any reason to try.

How do you come off a self-exclusion list?

Usually not before the term ends, and often not automatically. Many programmes require a written request after the term, and lifetime listings may be permanent. The removal rules are part of the design, so read them before choosing a term.

How does the Journal cover self-exclusion?

Each entry takes one programme and sets out, from the regulator's own rules, who runs it, the terms on offer, what a listing blocks, what happens to winnings and how removal works. If you are thinking about excluding, our responsible gambling page lists free help.

Where should I start?

Read Michigan self-exclusion: two state lists and how they work, then NJ gambling self-exclusion list: terms, forfeiture, removal to compare a second state's approach.