Responsible gambling: limits, breaks and self-exclusion
Responsible gambling is not a legal notice to scroll past. It is a set of concrete tools — some of them legal obligations for licensed operators — that let you decide, before you play, how much money and time gambling will take. This page covers those tools, the warning signs to watch for and what to do when gambling stops being fun. Where rules differ by country, we give the Portuguese rules as the worked example, because that is where most of our readers are.
Decide before, not during
The key decisions come before the first bet: how much you can afford to lose this session, this week and this month, and how long you will play. Once play starts, the rhythm of rounds and the urge to win back losses make those decisions far harder. A slot delivers hundreds of decisions an hour; a live table is slower but more immersive. Either way, limits set with a cool head protect you from choices made in the heat of the moment.
Tools in your account
- Deposit limit — in Portugal, licensed operators must allow daily, weekly and monthly deposit limits. It is the single most effective tool: money that never goes in cannot be lost.
- Loss limit — a cap on net losses over a period.
- Session limit — ends or warns after a set time.
- Reality check — periodic reminders of time played and balance.
- Cooling-off period — a temporary account lock.
- Self-exclusion — a long-term block; in Portugal through SRIJ's central register.
Beyond deposit limits, exactly which tools exist depends on the operator. Look for them in the account settings on day one, before depositing.
Self-exclusion for readers in Portugal
Since 8 April 2026, SRIJ has provided a new self-exclusion form. The central register applies to all licensed operators at once, for a minimum of 3 months or indefinitely. Early revocation only takes effect one month after it is requested, and never before the 3-month legal minimum. More on our self-exclusion page.
18+, age verification and restricted countries
Online gambling is for adults only: 18+ in Portugal and most of Europe, 21+ in some jurisdictions. Licensed operators verify age and identity and close accounts belonging to anyone underage. Each operator also lists restricted countries where it does not accept players. If children use your devices, lock them with a password and use parental controls; underage gambling is illegal and harmful.
Warning signs
- Playing to win back losses.
- Raising stakes to feel the same excitement.
- Hiding time or money spent from people close to you.
- Borrowing, or using money meant for bills.
- Feeling restless or irritable when trying to stop.
If two or more sound familiar, take a break now and seek professional support — your family doctor is a good first contact and can refer you to specialist help.
Simple rules for every session
Gamble only with money you can afford to lose, never as a source of income. Set the length of the session before starting. Do not play tired, after drinking or to relieve stress. Decline bonuses if you do not want to be tied to wagering requirements. To understand the cost per hour of different games, see live casino and slots.