Responsible Gambling in Canada

Gambling should be entertainment, not a way to make money or escape problems. Here are the tools that help you stay in control and where to find free, confidential support in your province.

Stay in control

Tools Every Casino Should Offer

Set these up before you play, not after a losing session. Licensed casinos let you change them in your account settings.

Deposit limits

A daily, weekly or monthly cap on how much you can deposit. Lowering a limit usually works at once; raising it takes a waiting period.

Time reminders

Reality checks that pop up during a session and show how long you have been playing and how much you have spent.

Cooling-off periods

A short break, from 24 hours to a few weeks, during which you cannot log in or deposit.

Self-exclusion

A longer block of six months or more. Provincial programs can cover all gambling sites run or licensed in your province.

Warning signs to watch for

Chasing losses

Playing longer or betting more to win back money you have lost.
Spending more than you planned

Going over your budget, borrowing money or using money meant for bills.
Hiding how much you play

Keeping gambling secret from family or friends, or feeling guilty about it.
Gambling to escape

Using gambling to deal with stress, boredom, loneliness or low mood.

Free & confidential

Where to Get Help in Your Province

Free
Confidential

Ontario: ConnexOntario

1-866-531-2600, 24/7
British Columbia: Gambling Support BC

1-888-795-6111, 24/7
Alberta: Addiction Helpline

1-866-332-2322, 24/7
Saskatchewan: Problem Gambling Helpline

1-800-306-6789, 24/7
Quebec: Jeu : aide et référence

1-800-461-0140, 24/7
Other provinces & territories

Find local support through the Responsible Gambling Council

In a crisis, call or text 9-8-8 (Suicide Crisis Helpline) or call 9-1-1. TrilliumPlay is an information site and does not provide counselling.

Safer gambling

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I set a deposit limit?

Open the responsible gambling or account settings section of the casino and choose a daily, weekly or monthly limit. Read our step-by-step guide to setting deposit limits.

What is self-exclusion?

Self-exclusion is a voluntary block on your account for a set period, usually six months or longer. During that time the casino must refuse your deposits and must not send you marketing.

Is help really free?

Yes. Provincial helplines are free and confidential, and many offer chat and family support as well as phone lines.

What is the legal gambling age?

19 in most provinces and territories, 18 in Alberta, Manitoba and Quebec. See gambling age by province.