GAMSTOP self-exclusion: how to register, how it ends

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ByLucas Portela
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Quick Answer

GAMSTOP is a free service that blocks gambling websites and apps run by companies licensed in Great Britain. You choose six months, one year, five years or five years with auto renewal. It cannot be ended early, and it never ends by itself: you must ask once your period is over.

GAMSTOP self-exclusion is a free service that blocks your access to online gambling companies licensed in Great Britain, for a period you choose. It is a strong step if gambling is getting out of control, and this guide covers how it works, how to register and how it ends.

How GAMSTOP self-exclusion works

Registration costs nothing, and it covers websites and apps run by operators licensed in Great Britain, according to the Gambling Commission. You choose six months, one year, five years or five years with auto renewal. GAMSTOP generally activates within 24 hours but cannot guarantee it, so do not gamble while you wait. You cannot deactivate it before your minimum period ends, so choose a period you can stick to. It does not cover unlicensed sites, and betting shops, casinos and bingo halls have their own schemes. GAMSTOP also does not handle your money, so contact each operator about any balance, because returning funds is their job.

How to register with GAMSTOP

  1. Use only the official GAMSTOP website and choose your period.
  2. Enter your name, date of birth, postcode and contact details, so GAMSTOP can match you to your accounts.
  3. Complete any verification step it asks for.
  4. Save the confirmation.

Fake sites and paid helpers are not part of the scheme, so never pay anyone to register for you. Registration is a personal decision, so the person concerned normally needs to complete it themselves, although you can sit with them and help.

How a GAMSTOP exclusion ends

GAMSTOP does not remove your exclusion when the period finishes, and it does not tell you that it has expired. You must contact GAMSTOP to deactivate it, a minimum cooling-off period of 24 hours applies, and the exclusion stays active during it. If you do nothing, it simply carries on. Auto renewal can only be switched off in the last six months of a five year period, and you can extend for a further six months, one year or five years. These rules come from GAMSTOP’s terms of use, last checked October 2026.

Before you end it, ask yourself honestly what has changed, talk to someone you trust and set safeguards first, such as deposit limits and a bank gambling block. Operators are told that you were previously self-excluded once it is removed. If you feel unsure, extending keeps the protection in place.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions

Can I cancel GAMSTOP if I change my mind?

No. You cannot deactivate it until the end of your minimum period, so think carefully about the length before you register. There is no early exit.

Will GAMSTOP tell me when my period ends?

No. It does not contact you, so put the end date in your calendar. After that date you must ask to have the exclusion removed, or it carries on.

Is GAMSTOP enough on its own?

It is a strong tool but not foolproof, so add a bank gambling block and blocking software on your devices. The National Gambling Helpline on 0808 8020 133 can support you too.