Responsible Gaming
Gambling Should Be Entertainment
At Betting Canada, we believe that gambling should only be viewed as a form of entertainment, not as a way to earn money or solve financial problems. We encourage all players to gamble responsibly and within their means. Remember: the house always has an edge, and you should only gamble with money you can afford to lose.
Age Verification
Gambling in Canada is only legal for individuals who are 18 years of age or older (19+ in some provinces including Ontario, Quebec, and Manitoba). We are committed to preventing underage gambling. All players must verify their age before accessing gambling services. If you are under the legal gambling age in your province, please do not participate in gambling activities.
Warning Signs of Problem Gambling
If you recognize any of the following signs in your own behavior, you may be developing a gambling problem:
- Chasing losses by gambling more to recover money you've lost
- Hiding or lying about your gambling activities from family and friends
- Gambling with money intended for bills, rent, or other essential expenses
- Spending more time and money on gambling than intended
- Feeling anxious, irritable, or restless when trying to cut back or stop gambling
- Needing to gamble with increasing amounts of money to achieve the same excitement
- Using gambling as a way to escape problems or negative emotions
- Borrowing money or going into debt to finance gambling
- Neglecting work, school, family, or other important responsibilities due to gambling
- Failed attempts to control, cut back, or stop gambling
If you recognize these signs in yourself, please seek help immediately.
Self-Help Tools & Player Protections
Most reputable online gambling operators offer tools to help you maintain control:
- Deposit Limits: Set a maximum amount you can deposit within a specific timeframe (daily, weekly, or monthly)
- Loss Limits: Set a maximum amount you're willing to lose in a given period
- Reality Checks: Receive reminders during gambling sessions about how long you've been playing and how much you've wagered
- Time-Out: Take a break from gambling for a predetermined period (hours, days, or weeks)
- Self-Exclusion: Voluntarily exclude yourself from gambling services for a longer period (typically 6 months to 5 years)
We recommend using these tools as part of your responsible gambling strategy. Always set limits before you start gambling and stick to them.
Support Organizations & Resources
If you or someone you know is struggling with problem gambling, help is available. The following organizations offer free, confidential support:
Canada
- Responsible Gambling Council - www.responsiblegambling.org
Provides resources, support, and referrals for problem gambling across Canada - Problem Gambling Institute of Ontario
Offers treatment and support services for Ontario residents - Gambling Help BC
Free, confidential counseling and support for British Columbia residents
International Resources
- GamCare (United Kingdom) - www.gamcare.org.uk
Support and information for problem gambling - GamStop (United Kingdom) - www.gamstop.co.uk
National self-exclusion scheme for online gambling - Gambling Help Online (Australia) - www.gamblinghelponline.org.au
Counseling and support services for Australian players - National Council on Problem Gambling (United States) - www.ncpgambling.org
Helpline: 1-800-GAMBLER (1-800-426-2537)
If You Need Help
If you believe you have a gambling problem, please seek help today. Problem gambling is a serious issue that can affect your financial health, relationships, and mental well-being. There is no shame in reaching out for support—help is available and recovery is possible.
Contact the Responsible Gambling Council at www.responsiblegambling.org or speak to a counselor at one of the support organizations listed above. Many services are free and confidential.
Remember: Gambling should be fun, not a burden. Play responsibly.