Voluntary Self-Exclusion
Gambling involves risking anything of value on the chance of a desired result. This includes things like betting on sports, playing slot machines, buying lottery tickets, or going to a casino. Some people gamble just for fun and can stop anytime. But for others, gambling can become a serious problem. This is where Voluntary Self-Exclusion can help.
What Is Problem Gambling?
Problem gambling happens when someone can’t stop gambling, even when it starts to hurt their life. This can mean losing money, fighting with family, or having trouble at work or school. It can also lead to stress, depression, or even thoughts of suicide.
Some signs of problem gambling include:
- Lying to family or friends about gambling.
- Chasing losses — gambling more to try to win back money.
- Gambling instead of spending time with family or doing other activities.
If you or someone you know shows these signs, it might be time to get help.
New York State offers several support services and programs to help individuals and families that are struggling with consequences due to problem gambling. One program is Voluntary Self-Exclusion.
What Is Voluntary Self-Exclusion?
New York State offers a Voluntary Self-Exclusion Program. This program lets a person choose to ban themselves from all NYS gambling options. These places include casinos, racetracks, sports betting lounges, and more. This is a free and private program. No one will force you to join — it’s your choice. But it can be a strong step toward managing or putting a stop to all problematic gambling.
Once someone signs up, they will not be allowed to enter gambling facilities/places. This is a program to protect individuals from further engaging in gambling, especially if they cannot fight their own impulses to gamble. If they try to, they could be removed and lose any winnings.
How does the Voluntary Self-Exclusion Process Work?
- Fill out a form: You can choose to exclude yourself from gambling opportunities for 1 year, 3 years, 5 years, or for life.
- Show your ID: You will need to prove who you are.
- Get your photo taken: This helps gambling locations know you are not allowed to enter.
- Your name is added to a list: This list is only seen by people who run gambling businesses. They use it to stop you from gambling.
Once you’re on the list, these places are not allowed to let you gamble. You will also not get any prizes or money if you enter and win after signing this document.
Where to Complete the Self-Exclusion Form?
You can complete the Voluntary Self-Exclusion form:
- In person at most casinos or gambling locations in New York.
- Online through the New York State Gaming Commission website.
- You can print the form and send it to the Gaming Commission.
Is There Support for Completing This Form?
If this process feels overwhelming, you are not alone. To help support you and anyone else who needs help completing this form, the New York Council on Problem Gambling offers a FREE Voluntary Self-Exclusion (VSE) Support Program to support you through his process. This programs offers:
- Connection to a VSE expert.
- Assistance with the application.
- Notary services.
- Information and support.
Feeling overwhelmed is normal and the experts in the VSE Support Program are here to make this process much smoother for you.
Immediate Support
If you think gambling is hurting your life, you’re not alone — and help is available. Taking the first step, like using the self-exclusion program, can be the beginning of a better path.
For 24/7 support, call the NYS OASAS HOPEline at 1-877-846-7369 or text 467369. Or choose your county using our interactive map on NYProblemGamblingHELP.org to see the contact information for the Problem Gambling Resource Center (PGRC) in your region.