It's late on a Sunday, you're down, and you're telling yourself this was the last weekend. Self-exclusion is built for that moment. You put your own name on a list that legally stops sportsbooks from letting you bet. It's one of the strongest tools there is, because it takes the decision out of your hands on the nights you can't trust yourself.
It can feel like a big step, and it is. It's also one of the first steps for anyone who's serious about quitting.
How self-exclusion works
- You pick how long it lasts. Depending on your state, that's usually anywhere from one year to a lifetime ban.
- For that whole time, licensed sportsbooks have to block you from betting and from their promotions.
- Most programs can't be undone early. That's exactly why they work.
Option 1: Your state's self-exclusion program
Every state with legal sports betting runs its own self-exclusion program, usually through the state gaming commission or lottery. Many let you sign up online. Some need an in-person or video appointment, and some need a notarized form.
To find yours, check our state-by-state guides. Each one links to that state's official program. You can also search for "[your state] gaming commission self-exclusion" or "[your state] lottery voluntary exclusion."
A few examples. New Jersey lets you self-exclude online from internet gaming and sports betting for a minimum of one or five years. Michigan offers one-year, five-year or lifetime options. Ohio runs Time Out Ohio, with online sign-up. Pennsylvania has an online form where you choose the length. Virginia's program is run by the Virginia Lottery.
Option 2: The national self-exclusion program
The National Voluntary Self-Exclusion Program (NVSEP) lets you sign up once and be excluded in every participating state. It launched in 2024 with Colorado, Iowa, Michigan and Tennessee, and more states have joined since, including Ohio and Wyoming. Make sure your state takes part before you count on it.
Option 3: Self-exclude inside each sportsbook app
You can also self-exclude directly in each app, usually under account settings or responsible gaming, or by asking customer support in chat. Some sportsbooks apply it in every state where they operate. Do this as a backup, even after you've joined your state's program.
How to make self-exclusion stick
- Pick the longest period you can. Torn between one year and five? Go with five.
- Exclude in every state where you might bet, including places you travel to a lot. State lists generally don't share with each other.
- Self-exclude inside each app you've used, too.
- Block the apps. Self-exclusion stops licensed sportsbooks, and a blocker covers the rest. See how to block sports betting apps.
When it feels too final
Hesitating is normal. Part of you might still want a way back in. That part is the reason to do it. Self-exclusion protects you on your worst night, when you won't be thinking clearly. If you're stuck, talk it through with someone, or call or text 1-800-MY-RESET (1-800-697-3738).
FAQ
How long does self-exclusion last?
It depends on your state. Options usually range from one year to a lifetime ban.
Can I cancel self-exclusion early?
Most programs can't be undone early. That's exactly what makes them work on the nights you can't trust yourself.
Does self-exclusion block every way to bet?
It covers licensed sportsbooks in the programs you join. It may not cover offshore sites, prediction markets or pick'em apps, so pair it with a gambling blocker.
Get your recovery plan
Self-exclusion is a big step. Get an honest read on what's driving your betting and what else to do this week.
Start my planSources: BettingUSA self-exclusion guide; New Jersey Division of Gaming Enforcement; NVSEP overview; Bright Side of News; Eat Watch Bet. Rules change, so confirm details on your state's official site.
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