Responsible Gaming Resources by State: Your Guide to Help and Support
Responsible gaming involves setting limits and seeking help to prevent gambling from causing financial or emotional harm. As legal sports betting and online casinos expand across the U.S., resources are becoming more robust, though they vary significantly by state.
The most critical resource is the National Problem Gambling Helpline, which connects you to local, confidential support in all 50 states.
However, accessing tools like Self-Exclusion or free counseling programs requires knowing your state’s specific agency and laws.
The National Lifeline and How to Get Immediate Help
The National Council on Problem Gambling (NCPG) coordinates a national network of resources, making help available 24/7, 365 days a year.
The National Helpline
- Number to Call: 1-800-GAMBLER
- What It Is: This number is the single most important resource. It automatically routes calls, texts, and chats to a trained professional in your state or region.
- Services Provided: Confidential crisis counseling, information, and direct referrals to local treatment programs, support groups (like Gamblers Anonymous), and state-specific self-exclusion programs.
- For Loved Ones: Family members and loved ones of those struggling can also use this number to receive support and guidance.
Accessing Basic Tools
Legal sports betting apps (DraftKings, FanDuel, BetMGM) are mandated to provide simple self-help tools directly within their platforms:
- Deposit Limits: Cap the amount of money you can deposit daily, weekly, or monthly.
- Loss Limits: Set a maximum amount you can lose before the app prevents further wagering.
- Time Limits: Set a maximum session time.
- Cool-Off Period: Temporarily suspend your access to the app for a few days or weeks.
State-Specific Resources and Self-Exclusion Programs
States with legal sports betting (38+ states) and/or online casinos (7 states) fund specialized programs, often through a state gaming commission or council.
Key Resource: The Self-Exclusion Program
Self-Exclusion is a voluntary, formal process where an individual signs up to be banned from all legal gambling activities in a state for a chosen period (e.g., one year, five years, or a lifetime).
- How it Works: Once enrolled, the operator (casino or online app) must legally deny you service, prevent you from creating new accounts, and remove you from all marketing lists.
- Enrollment: Many states, including New Jersey, allow users to enroll online through the state’s gaming enforcement website. Others, like Maryland, may require an in-person meeting.
- Impact: Enrollment may forfeit any money left in an online account, but it is a highly effective tool for controlling compulsive behavior.
Overview of Key States
The availability of free counseling and the self-exclusion process varies by state:
| State | Helpline | Self-Exclusion Details | Key Local Resource |
| New Jersey | 1-800-GAMBLER | Online enrollment available; options for 1-year, 5-year, or lifetime exclusion from Atlantic City casinos and online apps. | Council on Compulsive Gambling of NJ |
| Pennsylvania | 1-800-GAMBLER | Available for retail casinos and online platforms. The state funds various free treatment programs. | Council on Compulsive Gambling of PA |
| Michigan | 1-800-270-7117 | The Michigan Gaming Control Board manages a statewide online registry for exclusion from all gambling venues. | Michigan Gaming Control Board |
| New York | 1-877-8-HOPENY | Available for all gaming opportunities (casinos, racetracks, online apps). Often referred through the NY Council on Problem Gambling. | NYS Office of Addiction Services (OASAS) |
| Ohio | 1-800-589-9966 | Voluntary exclusion is available for all casino and racino facilities, as well as online sportsbooks. | Ohio Problem Gambling Helpline |
What to Do If You Need Help
If you recognize warning signs like chasing losses, hiding your betting, or gambling with money needed for bills, the most important step is seeking support.
Call 1-800-GAMBLER: Use the national helpline to be connected to local, state-specific resources immediately.
Take a Self-Assessment: Many state councils offer free, confidential online quizzes to help you gauge whether your gambling habits are moving into a problematic area.
Explore Local Options: Ask the helpline for referrals to:
- Certified Counselors: Professionals specializing in gambling addiction treatment.
- Support Groups: Local chapters of Gamblers Anonymous (GA) or Gam-Anon (for family members).
- Financial Management: Services that can help you regain control of your finances.
Remember, seeking help is a sign of strength, and resources are available across all 50 states.
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