Responsible gambling support and practical limits

Set limits before opening a game

• Choose a loss limit using money that is not needed for housing, food, bills, debt, savings, or health care.
• Set a firm end time and use a timer that is separate from the gambling screen.
• Do not borrow to gamble or increase a limit after a loss.
• Leave payment methods you do not plan to use out of reach.
• Plan what you will do after the session so stopping has a clear next step.

A win is also a sensible time to stop. Continuing because you feel close to a win, due for a change in luck, or able to recover a loss does not make the next result predictable.

Take a break early

Step away if you are irritated, hiding play, losing track of time, spending beyond your plan, or gambling to change your mood. A short pause may help, but repeated difficulty stopping calls for a longer break and outside support.

If an external gambling service offers deposit limits, time-outs, or self-exclusion, read how each tool works before choosing it. This independent site cannot place or remove restrictions on an external account.

U.S. help resources

For problem-gambling help in the United States, call 1-800-GAMBLER. The National Council on Problem Gambling explains the National Problem Gambling Helpline at ncpgambling.org.

If there is an immediate danger to you or someone else, contact emergency services. For other health concerns, a qualified health professional can provide advice based on your circumstances.

Helping someone else

Choose a calm moment, describe what you have observed without blame, and listen. Do not lend money for gambling or take control of another adult's account without appropriate authority. Encourage the person to contact a qualified support service and protect your own finances and well-being.