Set deposit, loss and time limits before playing. Use cooling-off or self-exclusion when limits are repeatedly changed or ignored. Alberta and Ontario have their own market tools and support systems; use the options applicable to your account and province.
- Budget
- Discretionary money only
- Time
- Choose an end time in advance
- Losses
- Never chase them
- Urgent step
- Stop access and ask for help
Three limits to set first
Set a deposit ceiling, maximum acceptable loss and session end time. Treat them as boundaries, not targets. A win does not create permission to remove them.
- Deposit limit for the chosen period
- Loss limit below the entertainment budget
- Time reminder and fixed stop time
Warning signs
Chasing losses, hiding activity, borrowing, gambling during distress, missing obligations or repeatedly increasing limits are strong reasons to stop. A cooling-off period creates distance; self-exclusion is appropriate when a longer barrier is needed.
Independent support
The Responsible Gambling Council provides Canadian education and resources. Provincial services and the account’s responsible-gambling section can provide local support and self-exclusion details. In an immediate emergency, call 911 or seek urgent medical help.
Official sources
We used current official market and operator information for the factual claims on this page.
Frequently asked questions
What is a cooling-off period?
It temporarily blocks or restricts access so you can step away from gambling.
What is self-exclusion?
It is a formal longer-term exclusion from gambling access under the applicable program rules.
Should I borrow to recover a loss?
No. Stop gambling and contact financial or gambling-support services.