Sometimes the best way to stay in control of your gambling is to step away for a while. Time-outs and cooling-off periods are responsible gambling tools that let you take a break from an online casino without permanently closing your account. They're designed for moments when you feel like you need to reset, whether that's for 24 hours, a week, or even a few months. This guide explains how these tools work, when to use them, and how they differ from full self-exclusion.
What Is a Time-Out?
A time-out (also called a "take a break" or "cooling-off period") is a temporary suspension of your casino account. You choose the duration—typically ranging from 24 hours to 6 months—and during that time, you can't log in, deposit, or play any games. At the end of the period, your account automatically reactivates unless you extend the break or choose self-exclusion. Time-outs are available at all UK-licensed casinos as part of their responsible gambling obligations. You'll find the option in your account settings under "Responsible Gambling" or "Safer Gambling Tools."
How Time-Outs Work
Here's what happens when you activate a time-out: -
You choose a duration: Select how long you want to be blocked—common options include 24 hours, 1 week, 1 month, or up to 6 months. -
Your account is immediately suspended: You can't log in, deposit funds, or place bets. -
You won't receive marketing: The casino stops sending you promotional emails and notifications during the time-out. -
The period is non-reversible: Once activated, you cannot cancel or shorten the time-out. You have to wait until it expires. -
Your account reactivates automatically: At the end of the period, you regain full access unless you take further action.
Example Scenario
You notice you've been gambling more than usual and feel like you're losing control. You activate a 1-month time-out on Monday. For the next 30 days, you can't access your account. You won't receive any emails or offers from the casino. On day 31, your account becomes active again, and you can decide whether to continue playing or extend the break.
Common Time-Out Durations
Most casinos offer these options:
24-Hour Time-Out
A short break to cool off after a frustrating session or losing streak. Good for resetting your mindset.
1-Week Time-Out
Useful if you've been gambling too frequently and need a few days to refocus.
1-Month Time-Out
A longer break to reassess your relationship with gambling or focus on other priorities.
3–6 Month Time-Out
A substantial break for players who feel their gambling is becoming problematic but aren't ready for permanent self-exclusion. The right duration depends on your situation. If you're unsure, start with a shorter time-out and extend it if needed.
How to Activate a Time-Out
The process is simple: - Log into your casino account - Go to "Account Settings" or "Responsible Gambling" - Find the "Time-Out" or "Take a Break" option - Select your preferred duration - Confirm your choice - Your account is suspended immediately Some casinos may ask you to provide a reason for the time-out or send a confirmation email. The suspension takes effect instantly—you won't be able to log in as soon as you confirm.
Can You Cancel a Time-Out Early?
No. Time-outs are designed to be non-reversible. Once you activate one, you cannot cancel or shorten it, even if you change your mind. This is intentional—it prevents impulsive decisions and ensures you get the full benefit of the break. If you try to contact customer support to cancel a time-out early, they are required to refuse. The only exception is if you choose to escalate to full self-exclusion, which is a more permanent solution.
What Happens to Your Account Balance?
Your account balance remains safe during a time-out. You can't access it, but it's still there. When the time-out period ends, your balance will be exactly as you left it. If you want to withdraw your balance before activating a time-out, do so first. Some casinos may allow you to request a withdrawal during the time-out setup process, but it's easier to handle this beforehand.
Time-Outs vs. Self-Exclusion
Time-outs and self-exclusion are both responsible gambling tools, but they serve different purposes:
Time-Outs
- Temporary break (up to 6 months) - Account reactivates automatically at the end - Reversible only by escalating to self-exclusion - Best for short-term breaks or resetting habits
Self-Exclusion
- Long-term or permanent account closure (minimum 6 months, often longer) - Account does not reactivate automatically - Requires a formal application to reopen (if allowed at all) - Best for serious gambling problems or long-term recovery If you're unsure which tool to use, start with a time-out. You can always escalate to self-exclusion if you realize you need a longer break.
When to Use a Time-Out
Time-outs are useful in several situations: -
After a losing streak: If you've lost more than you planned and feel the urge to chase losses. -
When gambling feels out of control: If you're gambling more frequently or for longer than intended. -
To break a habit loop: If you find yourself logging in out of boredom or routine rather than for entertainment. -
Before increasing limits: If you're tempted to raise your deposit or loss limits, take a time-out instead and reassess after the break. -
To focus on other priorities: If work, relationships, or finances are suffering because of gambling. -
As a precaution: If you know you'll be in a high-risk situation (e.g., receiving a bonus or paycheck), a time-out can prevent impulsive gambling.
How Time-Outs Help
Time-outs provide several benefits: -
Forces a pause: You can't override it with willpower or impulsive decisions. -
Breaks the cycle: Stepping away interrupts habitual gambling patterns. -
Creates perspective: Time away helps you see your gambling more objectively. -
Reduces emotional gambling: You can't gamble while frustrated, upset, or desperate to win back losses. -
Prevents further losses: You can't lose money if you can't access your account. The key benefit is that time-outs remove the decision-making burden. You don't have to rely on self-control—the casino enforces the break for you.
What to Do During a Time-Out
A time-out is more effective if you use the time productively: -
Reflect on your gambling habits: Ask yourself why you needed the break and whether your gambling is healthy. -
Review your finances: Check how much you've spent and whether it's affecting your budget. -
Explore other activities: Find hobbies or interests that replace the time you spent gambling. -
Seek support: If you're struggling, reach out to organizations like GamCare or BeGambleAware. -
Consider longer-term changes: Decide whether you need to set stricter limits, take a longer break, or pursue self-exclusion. Avoid thinking of the time-out as "just waiting it out." Use it as an opportunity to reset and make healthier decisions.
What Happens After the Time-Out Ends
When your time-out expires, your account reactivates automatically. At this point, you have several options: -
Resume playing with new limits: If you feel ready, set stricter deposit or loss limits before playing again. -
Extend the time-out: If you need more time, activate another time-out immediately. -
Pursue self-exclusion: If you've realized gambling is a problem, consider long-term or permanent exclusion. -
Stay away voluntarily: Just because your account is active doesn't mean you have to use it. Many casinos will send you a notification or email when your time-out ends. Take a moment to honestly assess whether you're ready to return.
Multi-Casino Considerations
A time-out only applies to the specific casino where you activated it. If you have accounts at multiple casinos, you'll need to activate time-outs at each one separately. For broader protection, consider using GAMSTOP, the UK's national self-exclusion scheme. GAMSTOP blocks you from all UK-licensed casinos for a minimum of 6 months, ensuring you can't simply move to another site.