Responsible Gambling
Our site is dedicated to helping you find a way to play safely and responsibly. This means that you will get the help if you need it to keep your gameplay in check.
Recommended responsible gaming sites
All of our online gambling site reviews will carefully examine what each site does to help you play in a way that is controlled and responsible. The majority of casino sites will let you access a carefully curated range of responsible gaming tools that you can use to apply limits, take time-outs, and self-exclude.
We will also check that these online casinos have responsive customer support on hand to help you use these tools and deactivate your account if necessary. All you need to stop your gameplay from spiralling out of control.
Responsible gaming tools
Each online casino featured in the banners of this page has been checked to ensure that it provides you with a selection of tools that you can use to play responsibly.
- Limits: You should be able to apply limits on things like your deposits, wagering, losses and even the amount of time you spend playing at the casino site.
- Cooling-off periods: You can usually apply your own ‘cooling-off periods’ that will stop you from accessing the casino from anywhere between a few hours and several days. Essential for getting some perspective on your gameplay.
- Time-outs: There will often be the option to take an extended time-out where you won’t be able to log into your casino account from anywhere between several days and an entire year.
- Self-exclusion: Finally, you should also be given the ability to permanently close down your account. This will completely stop you from being able to use that particular casino.
Tips for playing responsibly
Our website is also packed with handy advice that you can use to play responsibly at all times. Here are just some of examples of the tips that you can find here:
- Money management: We’ll provide expert advice about how you can set a sensible budget, play with modest stakes and avoid the temptation of spending too much.
- Responsible gameplay: You’ll also get specialist help on what you can do to play in a way that minimizes risk and stops you from the dangers of chasing after your losses.
- Gaming for entertainment: We’ll also add in some context to help you understand why you should always play for fun, rather than as a means of making money.
Self-assessment
Many of our recommended casino sites will also provide you with various tools that you can use to assess whether you are running the risk of problem gaming.
Such self-assessment tests will usually take the form of a questionnaire that will ask you how long you play for, how much money you spend on your gaming, and seeing if your gameplay is affecting other areas of your life.
By carrying out these self-assessment tests, you will quickly be able to see whether you are in need of extra help, or whether you are in control of your gaming.
Links to responsible gaming organizations
It’s common to find that all good online casinos will feature a variety of links to responsible gaming organizations. Such organizations will be generally available on a national and state level to give you expert help in keeping your gameplay under control.
Not only will you get a variety of advice and tips for preventive behaviors, but many states have their own self-exclusion programs. These will usually allow you to voluntarily block yourself from playing at all legalized gaming sites within that state for upwards of a year at a time.
Time for a break?
It is encouraged that every player approaches gambling mindfully, whether that means setting personal limits on time and money before you start, treating it as entertainment rather than a way to make income, and not chasing losses.
Common indicators include spending more time or money than planned, feeling irritable when not gambling, hiding your activity from loved ones, or using gambling to escape stress. If these resonate, reaching out early makes a big difference. Help is always available, confidential, and free.
- In the United States, the primary resource is the National Problem Gambling Helpline, operated by the National Council on Problem Gambling (NCPG).
- Call or text 1-800-MY-RESET (1-800-697-3738) for around-the-clock support or visit their website at ncpgambling.org
- Here, you will be connected to local referrals, counseling, and support networks across all U.S. states and territories.
- Many states also have dedicated helplines and resources you can use.
- For additional support in your local communities, Gamblers Anonymous offers peer-led meetings worldwide. You can visit gamblersanonymous.org for locations and, in some cases, virtual meetings.
- Gam-Anon even offers help for friends and family affected by someone's gambling; you can visit their website at gam-anon.org.
- International players can even find localized help through organizations like Gambling Help Online or similar services in their country.