Everything You Need to Know About Self-Exclusion

• Sports bettors who feel they have a problem with gambling can impose self-exclusion on themselves
• What happens when you self-exclude?
• Learn the details of self-exclusion through a series of FAQs answered here

Most jurisdictions that permit online sports betting require sportsbooks to offer a self-exclusion option.

Self-exclusion is when sports bettors choose to ban themselves from a sportsbook, usually because they feel they have developed a betting-related problem.

Self-Exclusion FAQs

The easiest way to explain self-exclusion is through a series of FAQs. Read the FAQs below to learn about self-exclusion and find further resources for gaining help with problem gambling.

Who imposes self-exclusion?

Answer: The bettor, himself/herself. By definition, no one can impose “self-exclusion” on someone else.

Who enforces self-exclusion?

Answer: The sportsbook.

Can bettors revoke their own self-exclusion?

Answer: No, they must wait until the pre-specified time period has elapsed. Once it does, normal betting activities may be resumed unless and until a new self-exclusion period is self-imposed.

How long will the self-exclusion last?

Answer: It depends on the sportsbook and what options it provides.

At many sportsbooks, the length of the self-exclusion can be decided by the bettor and the sportsbook working in concert. Simply contact customer support to start the process of arranging the preferred duration.

Can self-exclusion be permanent?

Answer: It depends on the sportsbook. Most have a permanent self-exclusion option. Those that do not advertise such an option will likely make one available if you contact customer service.

Are there other options short of self-exclusion?

Answer: Again, it depends on the sportsbook. But generally, yes, there are other options to curtail ones betting.

These include self-imposed betting limits (e.g. no wagers over $20), deposit limits (e.g. only $100 in deposits every six months), and “cooling off” periods.

A cooling-off period is basically a revocable exclusion. Bettors can end the exclusion at any point by requesting reinstatement.

Additional Resources

• The National Council on Problem Gambling (US) Gambling Helpline
• HelpGuide.org’s “Gambling Addiction and Problem Gambling“
• National Health Service (UK) “Help for problem gambling“
• Canadian Association for Mental Health’s “Problem Gambling“
• Lifeline.org.au (Aus) “Problem Gambling“