Casinostop

Guide · US

Voluntary self-exclusion in the US

There's no single national list in America, so blocking yourself takes a few more steps than in the UK. Here's how to do it properly, in one sitting.

Why it works differently here

Gambling in the US is regulated at state level. That means self-exclusion is handled by your state's gaming commission, casino control board or lottery — and a listing in one state usually has no effect in the next one. There is no equivalent of a single nationwide register, so the job is to cover the routes you actually use.

The three levels to cover

  1. State regulator. Search for "[your state] gaming commission voluntary self-exclusion". Most states have an online form or an in-person appointment, and many cover both casinos and licensed online sportsbooks and casino apps.
  2. Operator level. Each sportsbook and casino app has its own responsible gaming settings with self-exclusion, deposit limits and cool-off periods. Set them on every account you hold, including ones you rarely use.
  3. Property level. Individual tribal and commercial casinos run their own exclusion lists. If a specific property is your habit, ask their responsible gaming desk directly.

Choosing a length

Options typically include one year, five years or lifetime, and in many states an exclusion cannot be lifted early — some lifetime listings are permanent. Take that seriously, and then choose longer rather than shorter. The version of you filling in this form is the one you should be listening to.

Close the money and device gaps

  • Ask your bank or card issuer to block gambling merchant codes where available.
  • Remove saved cards and delete payment apps' links to gambling accounts.
  • Install a gambling blocker on every phone, tablet and browser you use.
  • Unsubscribe from sportsbook promos and mute betting content in your feeds.

Step-by-step in block gambling on your phone, bank and computer.

Free help, today

The National Problem Gambling Helpline is free, confidential and available 24/7: call or text 1-800-GAMBLER. Gamblers Anonymous and Gam-Anon meetings exist in most states, and many states fund free counselling for gambling specifically.

After the block: the part that keeps you free

Exclusion buys you distance; habits keep it. Read how to stop gambling, what gambling addiction really is, and use the 30-day program to turn the first weeks into small daily wins instead of pure willpower.

Frequently asked questions

Is there a nationwide self-exclusion list in the US?
No. Unlike GamStop in the UK, US self-exclusion is run state by state through each state's gaming or lottery regulator, plus programs at individual casinos and sportsbook apps. You may need to register in more than one place.
How long does US self-exclusion last?
It varies by state. Common options are one year, five years and lifetime, and many states do not allow early removal. Some lifetime listings can never be reversed.
What happens if I gamble while self-excluded?
Depending on the state you can be removed from the property, treated as trespassing, and forfeit winnings. The rules are strict on purpose — the goal is to make the decision hard to undo.

Want help day by day?

Casinostop is a 30-day programme with one small quest every day – without shame and without demands. One-time price 199 SEK including VAT.

Start the 30-day programme

Need to talk to someone? In the UK call GamCare on 0808 8020 133. In the US call 1-800-GAMBLER (1-800-426-2537).