Responsible Gambling
18+ | Gamble Responsibly. Practical guidance on staying in control, recognising the warning signs and getting free, confidential help.
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Gambling responsibly
Every bet carries a margin for the operator, so over time most people lose more than they win. Treat money spent on gambling like the price of a cinema ticket: money you are prepared to lose in exchange for entertainment.
Set your limits before you start
- Deposit limits — daily, weekly or monthly caps on how much you can add to your account.
- Loss limits — the most you are prepared to lose in a period.
- Time limits and reality checks — reminders that show how long you have been playing.
- Time-outs and self-exclusion — short or long breaks during which you cannot gamble.
Licensed operators are required to provide these tools in many jurisdictions. Set them when you open an account, while you are thinking clearly.
Understand the risk
Odds describe probability, not certainty. A price of 2.00 implies a 50% chance — before the bookmaker’s margin — which means the bet loses half the time. Use our implied probability calculator to see what any price really means.
Never chase losses
Increasing your stakes to win back what you have lost is one of the fastest routes to serious harm. If you have reached your limit, stop. The next bet is not more likely to win because the last one lost.
Take regular breaks
Step away after a big win or a big loss, and never gamble when you are stressed, upset, tired or have been drinking.
Recognising problem gambling
It may be time to get support if you:
- spend more money or time gambling than you intended;
- borrow money, sell things or miss bills because of gambling;
- hide your gambling from people close to you;
- feel anxious, guilty or irritable about gambling;
- gamble to escape problems or to win back losses.
Age restrictions
You must be 18 or older — or the higher legal age where you live — to gamble. Operators must verify your age and identity. If you share a device with children, use parental-control software.
Free, confidential help
If you are in immediate danger or thinking about harming yourself, contact your local emergency services.
Frequently asked questions
What is the legal gambling age?
At least 18 in most countries, and higher in some places — for example 21 in many US states. Always check the law where you live.
What is self-exclusion?
A tool that blocks you from gambling with an operator — or with every licensed operator in a scheme — for a period you choose.
Where can I get help?
Free, confidential services are listed on this page. Many offer phone, chat and email support.