Your wellbeing matters. Play responsibly and know when to seek help.
Need Help Now?
If you or someone you know has a gambling problem, help is available 24/7:
You can also text "HELP" to 233-5000 for immediate support.
Warning Signs of Problem Gambling
Even with sweepstakes casinos, it's important to recognize warning signs:
- Spending more time or money than you intended
- Chasing losses by playing longer to "win back" what you've spent
- Neglecting responsibilities, relationships, or work due to gaming
- Lying to family or friends about how much time or money you spend
- Feeling restless, irritable, or anxious when not playing
- Using gaming to escape problems or relieve negative emotions
- Borrowing money or selling things to fund purchases
- Multiple failed attempts to cut back or stop playing
If you recognize any of these signs in yourself or a loved one, please reach out for help using the resources on this page.
Tips for Responsible Play
Set Time Limits
Decide in advance how long you'll play. Set a timer on your phone and stop when it goes off, regardless of whether you're winning or losing.
Set a Budget
Only spend what you can afford to lose. Treat purchases as entertainment expenses, like movie tickets. Never use bill money or savings.
Take Regular Breaks
Step away from the screen regularly. Go outside, exercise, or spend time with family and friends.
Don't Chase Losses
If you're having a losing session, don't try to win it back. Accept that losses are part of gaming and walk away.
Play for Fun
Remember that sweepstakes gaming is entertainment. If it stops being fun, it's time to take a break.
Avoid Playing Under Influence
Don't play when you're tired, stressed, upset, or under the influence of alcohol or drugs. Good decisions require a clear mind.
Self-Exclusion Options
If you need a break from sweepstakes gaming, most platforms offer self-exclusion tools:
How to Self-Exclude from Sweepstakes Casinos
- Contact the casino directly: Most sweepstakes casinos have self-exclusion options in their account settings or through customer support.
- Request account closure: Ask to have your account permanently or temporarily closed.
- Use blocking software: Install apps like BetBlocker to prevent access to gaming sites.
- Contact your bank: Request that they block transactions to gaming platforms.
Additional Resources
Protecting Minors
Sweepstakes casinos are for adults only. All players must be at least 18 years old (21 in some states). To help prevent underage access:
- Never let minors use your gaming accounts
- Use parental controls on shared devices
- Keep account credentials private and secure
- Talk to young people in your life about responsible gaming
State-Specific Resources
Many states have their own gambling helplines and resources:
- California: 1-800-GAMBLER or problemgambling.ca.gov
- New York: 1-877-8-HOPENY or State Resources
- Pennsylvania: 1-800-GAMBLER or pacouncil.com
- New Jersey: 1-800-GAMBLER or 800gambler.org
- Michigan: 1-800-270-7117 or State Resources
Remember
Gaming should be fun. If it's not fun anymore, it's time to take a break.
SweepState is committed to promoting responsible gaming. We do not operate casinos or gambling platforms - we are an informational review site only.