Self-Exclusion Programs
Need Help Right Now?
Call 1-800-522-4700 — 24/7, free, confidential. A counselor can walk you through self-exclusion options.
Self-exclusion is the strongest boundary you can set between yourself and gambling. It's not a punishment — it's a practical tool that removes the option to gamble during moments when willpower alone isn't enough. There are no affiliate links on this page.
Blocking Software (Works Everywhere)
Software-based blocking tools are the fastest way to cut off access to gambling sites and apps across all your devices. They work regardless of which state you live in or which casinos you use.
BetBlocker (Free)
BetBlocker is a free, open-source tool developed by a registered charity. It blocks over 84,000 gambling websites and apps on Windows, Mac, iOS, Android, and Linux. You choose the exclusion period (from 24 hours to 5 years), and you can't undo it once set.
BetBlocker is a good starting point because it costs nothing, covers all major platforms, and doesn't require interacting with any gambling company to activate.
Gamban (Paid)
Gamban is a paid blocking service (around $3/month or $30/year) that blocks over 55,000 gambling sites and apps. It offers a more aggressive blocking approach than BetBlocker and is harder to circumvent. Gamban works on Windows, Mac, iOS, and Android.
Some states and organizations offer subsidized or free Gamban subscriptions for people in treatment — check with your state's problem gambling council.
GamStop (UK Only)
GAMSTOP is a UK self-exclusion scheme. When you register, all UK-licensed online gambling companies are legally required to block your accounts. Exclusion periods are 6 months, 1 year, or 5 years.
GAMSTOP only covers UK-licensed operators. It won't block offshore or unlicensed sites, so pairing it with BetBlocker or Gamban is recommended.
Casino-Level Self-Exclusion
Every legitimate online casino offers self-exclusion through account settings. The process usually involves:
- Navigate to your account's responsible gaming settings (sometimes under "My Account" or "Player Protection")
- Choose a self-exclusion period (common options: 6 months, 1 year, 5 years, or permanent)
- Confirm your choice — some casinos require you to contact support for permanent exclusion
Once active, the casino must close your account, forfeit any active bonuses, and refuse to reopen the account during the exclusion period. Reputable casinos honor this even if you contact them and ask to be let back in.
Casino-level exclusion only blocks you from that specific platform. If you use multiple gambling sites, you'll need to self-exclude from each one individually — or use blocking software for broader coverage.
State Voluntary Exclusion Programs
Many US states operate official voluntary self-exclusion registries. When you enroll, all regulated gambling operators in that state are required to deny you service — both online platforms and land-based casinos. State programs are free and administered by gaming regulatory agencies.
Below is a selection of state programs. If your state isn't listed, contact the National Council on Problem Gambling or call 1-800-522-4700 for guidance on available options in your area.
| State | Agency | Periods | Link |
|---|---|---|---|
| California | California Bureau of Gambling Control | Varies by tribal compact | Visit → |
| Colorado | Colorado Division of Gaming | 5 years | Visit → |
| Connecticut | CT Dept. of Consumer Protection | 1 year, 5 years, lifetime | Visit → |
| Florida | Florida Gaming Control Commission | Varies by venue | Visit → |
| Illinois | Illinois Gaming Board | 5 years, lifetime | Visit → |
| Indiana | Indiana Gaming Commission | 1 year, 5 years, lifetime | Visit → |
| Louisiana | Louisiana Gaming Control Board | Lifetime | Visit → |
| Maryland | Maryland Lottery & Gaming | 2 years, lifetime | Visit → |
| Massachusetts | Massachusetts Gaming Commission | 1 year, 3 years, 5 years, lifetime | Visit → |
| Michigan | Michigan Gaming Control Board | 1 year, lifetime | Visit → |
| Mississippi | Mississippi Gaming Commission | 1 year, 5 years, lifetime | Visit → |
| Missouri | Missouri Gaming Commission | Lifetime (5-year minimum) | Visit → |
| Nevada | Nevada Gaming Control Board | 1 year, 5 years, lifetime | Visit → |
| New Jersey | NJ Division of Gaming Enforcement | 1 year, 5 years, lifetime | Visit → |
| New York | NYS Gaming Commission | 1 year, 5 years, lifetime | Visit → |
| Ohio | Ohio Casino Control Commission | 1 year, 5 years, lifetime | Visit → |
| Pennsylvania | PA Gaming Control Board | 1 year, 5 years, lifetime | Visit → |
| Texas | Texas Lottery Commission | Limited (no casino self-exclusion) | Visit → |
| Virginia | Virginia Lottery | 2 years, 5 years, lifetime | Visit → |
| West Virginia | WV Lottery Commission | 1 year, 5 years, lifetime | Visit → |
Which Option Should You Choose?
These tools aren't mutually exclusive — in fact, layering them is the most effective approach:
- Immediate step: Install BetBlocker (free, works in 5 minutes) to block access right now.
- Same day: Self-exclude from any specific casinos where you have accounts.
- Within a week: Enroll in your state's voluntary exclusion program if one exists.
- Ongoing: Call 1-800-522-4700 to connect with a counselor who can help you build a longer-term plan.
The goal isn't perfection — it's adding enough friction between you and gambling that impulsive decisions become much harder to act on.
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