How To Ban Yourself from iGaming Casinos in Ontario (Self-Exclusion)

Updated: Thurs. Aug 07, 2025 3 Minute Read

You have two options when it comes to taking a break from online casinos in Ontario. If you find yourself at risk from gambling harm and you'd like to self-exclude you can do so through the responsible gambling tools offered by the casino. Below we discuss the options available for short term breaks and permanent self-exclusion.

how to self exclude from gambling in ontario — Learn how to self-exclude yourself from gambling in Ontario

Self Exclusion From Ontario Casinos - From Days to Years

Being able to take short breaks from your online gaming is a great way to prevent problem gambling. Most sites will have self-assessment quizzes and questionnaires that you can take if you're unsure whether a habit is developing. These can help you determine whether you need a temporary pause or a more serious approach.

Short Term Breaks (up to 3 months)

If you're looking to take a short break in play you can use the "short-term break" option which is pretty flexible. Users can choose whether to set the duration for one day, one week, one month, two months or a three month break. Once you've initiated the short-term break you will not be able to deposit any funds until the break is complete.

To set this up, you need to log into your casino account and see how the responsible gambling tools function. Some sites allow you to manage everything from your account, but others require activation via customer support.

Once you've determined which course of action is appropriate for you, all you have to do is follow the instructions provided. There are no hidden obstacles and all AGCO licensed casinos have responsible gambling tools in place to ensure player safety and protect from gambling harm.

Self Exclusion at iGaming Sites (up to 5 years)

Since February 2023 there has been a self-exclusion program provided for players at all AGCO licensed iGaming sites^[1]. These must be clearly displayed and easily accessed. Players have the option to self-exclude for six months, one year or five years.

Each casino has their own process for self-excluding. For permanent exclusion this is usually requested via customer support and is activated within 24 hours.

OLG has My PlayBreak^[2] which is their own tool that allows players to take a break from the site. When you use this tool you also take a break from Charitable Gaming Centres and you won't be able to visit any Ontario casino or play on OLG. MyPlayBreak also let's you opt out of promotions and advertisements meaning that all communications will be paused. This option is available from 1 day to 3 months.

Help Prevent Gambling Harm By Using RG Tools Like Self Exclusion

Whatever option you choose, you should be aware that you won't be able to access your account until your exclusion period has ended.

It's also worth noting any remaining balance on your account may not be refunded if you enrol in any self-exclusion program. As such, make sure you withdraw any remaining funds before activating your break.

This will be all clearly stated as you complete the process and before finalizing your timeout. You'll also be instructed on the process of how to return to your game play safely and responsibly.

There will be resources available and information on support organizations where you'll find help should you need it while taking a break. Ontario casinos are very support orientated and view responsible gambling as a serious priority.

Can I Remove Myself From All iGaming Sites in Ontario at Once?

At present (2025) there isn't a province wide self-exclusion program in place. If you self-exclude from land-based casinos, you can still sign up at any of the online gambling sites and vice versa.

While all the licensed online casinos and sportsbooks have responsible gambling tools in place including PlaySmart (OLG's responsible gambling program), there isn't a province-wide way to permanently remove yourself from all gambling sites yet.

iGO is working to develop a centralized self-exclusion program that will allow players to register for self-exclusion from all regulated websites in Ontario. The AGCO takes responsible gambling and their iGaming regulations very seriously. They don't hold back from handing out fines to operators who have breached their terms. Operators face AGCO fines if they fail to support self-exclusion.

The UK has GAMSTOP, a free service, that will block you from setting up any gambling accounts and it can be activated for 6 months up to 5 years. There's also SENSE which is a self-exclusion scheme for the British casino industry. Ontario doesn't have anything in place yet, but iGO is working on developing a centralized self-exclusion program that will allow players to register for self-exclusion from all regulated igaming sites in Ontario^[3].

Until this has been created, you can use blocking tools and apps such as Bet Blocker^[4] which is a free app that will block access to gambling sites and is one of the most trusted.

Get Help When You Need It

Should you ever feel like your online casino gameplay is no longer entertaining and is having an impact on your life, take appropriate action and seek help immediately. There are links to all the helpful organizations such as ConnexOntario on every licensed iGaming site in Ontario.