Self-exclusion: how to stop in a way that holds
By Ilze Krūmiņa · updated October 2026
Self-exclusion is a decision to step away from gambling for a set time and make that decision hard to reverse. It works best when applied at several levels at once: the operator's account, a national register where your country has one, and your own bank and devices. Here is each level in turn.
Self-exclusion in the account
| Step | What to do |
|---|---|
| 1 | Find the responsible gambling or self-exclusion section in your account |
| 2 | Choose a period; if unsure, choose the longer one |
| 3 | If there is no such section, ask support in writing to lock the account for self-exclusion for the chosen period |
| 4 | Keep the confirmation |
During self-exclusion, an account is normally not reopened on first request, and marketing messages should stop. If they continue, that is grounds for a complaint (see Complaints).
National registers
Many countries run a national self-exclusion register that licensed operators in that country must respect. If yours has one, it is a strong additional layer. Bear in mind its limits: a site licensed elsewhere may not be bound by your national register, so use the site's own self-exclusion as well. Your national regulator's website will explain whether a register exists and how to join.
Your balance before you lock the account
Before self-excluding, withdraw any balance above the minimum withdrawal. If verification is not complete, a payout may require documents — a good reason to do it now. If the balance is below the minimum, ask support how it will be handled after the lock. More on Withdrawals and Verification.
Extra protection
- Bank: look at your card and online-banking settings, or ask your bank whether gambling payments can be blocked.
- Devices: blocking software can restrict access to gambling sites.
- Email: unsubscribe from all marketing.
- People: tell someone you trust about your decision.
When the period ends
When the period is over, do not rush back. Think about what has changed. If you do return, start with deposit and time limits on the first day. If you notice you were counting down to the end of the period, that is a sign to extend the break, not end it.
When you need support, not just a block
A block closes the door but not the urge. If thoughts about gambling will not let go, Gambling Therapy offers free online support in many languages, and Gamblers Anonymous runs meetings in many countries. More on limits and warning signs: Responsible gambling.