Responsible Gaming
Gaming Should Be Entertainment, Not Income
Online casino gaming is designed purely for entertainment purposes. It should never be viewed as a way to earn money or solve financial problems. All casino games are games of chance with a built-in house advantage. Always gamble only with money you can afford to lose, and never chase losses or bet more than you intended.
Age Verification
You must be at least 18 years of age (or the legal age of majority in your province) to participate in online casino gaming in Canada. It is illegal for minors to gamble. Licensed online casinos are required to verify your age before allowing you to play.
If you are under the legal age, please do not attempt to register or gamble.
Warning Signs of Problem Gambling
Be aware of these warning signs that may indicate a gambling problem:
- Chasing losses by gambling more to try to recover money lost
- Spending more time and money on gambling than intended
- Hiding gambling activities or lying about the extent of your gambling
- Neglecting work, school, family, or personal responsibilities due to gambling
- Borrowing money or going into debt to finance gambling
- Feeling anxious, irritable, or restless when not gambling
- Continuously increasing bet amounts to achieve the same excitement
- Unable to cut back or stop gambling despite wanting to
- Using gambling to escape problems, stress, or negative emotions
- Experiencing relationship problems or conflicts related to gambling
If you recognize any of these signs in your own behavior, please seek help immediately.
Self-Help Tools & Responsible Gaming Features
Most licensed online casinos in Canada offer tools to help you maintain control:
- Deposit Limits: Set a maximum amount you can deposit within a specified time period (daily, weekly, or monthly)
- Loss Limits: Set a maximum amount you're willing to lose over a given period
- Session Time Limits: Set automatic reminders or automatic logout after a predetermined time
- Reality Checks: Request pop-up notifications at regular intervals to remind you of your play time and spending
- Self-Exclusion: Voluntarily exclude yourself from a casino or multiple casinos for a set period (typically 6 months to several years)
- Account Cooling-Off Period: Take a break from your account for a temporary period before reactivating
Take advantage of these tools to help you maintain responsible gaming habits.
Support Organizations in Canada
If you or someone you know is struggling with problem gambling, help is available:
Canada
- Responsible Gambling Council
Website: www.responsiblegambling.org
Information and resources for problem gambling in Canada - Gamblers Anonymous
A fellowship of individuals recovering from a gambling problem with mutual support and peer guidance
International Resources
- National Council on Problem Gambling (USA)
Website: www.ncpgambling.org
Helpline: 1-800-GAMBLER (1-800-426-2537) - GamCare (UK)
Website: www.gamcare.org.uk
Free, confidential support and advice about problem gambling - Gambling Help Online (Australia)
Website: www.gamblinghelponline.org.au
Counselling and support services for problem gambling
All support services are confidential. Reaching out for help is a sign of strength, not weakness.
If You Need Help
If you suspect you may have a gambling problem, please contact the Responsible Gambling Council or seek professional help immediately. There is no shame in asking for support. Many people have overcome problem gambling and gone on to live fulfilling lives.
Remember: gambling should be entertainment. If it's causing you stress, financial hardship, or affecting your relationships, it's time to reach out for help.