Self-exclusion: blocking access when you need a real break
Self-exclusion is a request to the operator to close your account to gambling for a set period or permanently. It is the strongest tool in a casino account, meant for situations where limits are no longer enough. This page explains how it usually works, what happens to your money, and which additional steps make a block more effective. The options and periods are set by the operator and shown in the account settings.
Time-out or self-exclusion?
A time-out is a short break — a day, a week, a few weeks — after which the account reopens automatically. Self-exclusion is longer, often several months to years or permanent, and cannot normally be reversed before it ends. If you are unsure, the longer option is the safer choice; a block that ends too early is worth little.
How to request it
- Open the account settings and find responsible gambling or self-exclusion.
- Choose the period and confirm. Some accounts ask for a reason; it is optional.
- If the option is missing, write to support and ask for self-exclusion in writing, then keep the confirmation.
Your balance and pending withdrawals
Ask for any remaining balance to be paid out before or at the moment of exclusion. A withdrawal that is pending should still be processed, but checks may be required first, so keep your documents up to date. Active bonuses are usually cancelled. Confirm in writing what will happen to your money, and keep that message.
Make the block stronger
- Unsubscribe from marketing e-mails and switch off app notifications.
- Delete saved logins and bookmarks for gambling sites.
- Ask your bank whether it offers a block on gambling payments; many do.
- Install a reputable blocking tool for gambling websites on your devices.
- Tell someone you trust that you have made this decision.
Exclusion from one operator does not cover others. Where your country has a national exclusion scheme, it can cover several operators at once; check the authority in your country.
Support during a break
- Gambling Therapy — free global online support for gambling problems, with chat, forums and groups in many languages.
- Gamblers Anonymous — a mutual-help fellowship with a meeting finder; it is not a hotline.
More tools are described on the responsible gambling page. Back to the guide home.