How to block online slots and sweepstakes casinos
Sweepstakes casinos sell "coins" you can play like slots and then redeem for cash prizes. Because they operate outside state casino licensing in most places, your state's self-exclusion list usually doesn't reach them. Real-money online slots are a different case. In states that license online casinos, like Michigan, New Jersey and Pennsylvania, the state program does cover them. Here's how to shut out both.
The short version
- Licensed online casinos (MI, NJ, PA and others): use your state's online self-exclusion, lifetime if offered.
- Sweepstakes casinos: request permanent self-exclusion and account closure from each one, in writing.
- Block the sites with BetBlocker or Gamban on every device.
- Stop the coin buys: remove saved cards and lock app store purchases.
- Some states have banned sweepstakes casinos, including New Jersey, California and New York. Sites may still try to reach you.
Real-money online slots
If your state licenses online casinos, its self-exclusion program has an online track. Michigan's Responsible Gaming Database covers online casino gaming. New Jersey's covers internet gaming. Pennsylvania has a separate iGaming list. Enroll in that track, at lifetime where it's offered, and in any casino or sportsbook list you need too. Check your state page.
Sweepstakes casinos
Redeem or close out what you can
Take any redeemable balance out first, if you can do it in one step without playing.
Ask for permanent self-exclusion
Look in your account settings for a responsible play or self-exclusion option. If there isn't one, email support: "Please permanently self-exclude me and close my account. Do not send me marketing." Keep the reply.
Do it for every site
Exclude from each site separately, even ones that look related. Write down every one you've used and go down the list.
Unsubscribe and block their texts
Block the sites and the payments
- Install BetBlocker or Gamban on your phone, tablet and computer.
- Remove saved cards from each site and from PayPal or other wallets you used.
- Coin purchases may not look like gambling to your bank, so a card gambling block may not catch them. Read our bank blocking guide and ask your bank directly.
- Lock in-app purchases with a passcode someone else holds, on iPhone or Android. That covers social casino apps too.
Where sweepstakes casinos are banned
New Jersey
P.L. 2025, c.128, approved August 15, 2025, made sweepstakes casinos that use paid entries and redeemable prizes unlawful gambling in the state.
California
AB 831 bans online sweepstakes games that use dual currencies and simulate casino gambling. It took effect January 1, 2026.
New York
Senate Bill S5935-A, signed in December 2025, bans online sweepstakes casinos that use dual-currency systems.
Sources: NJ P.L. 2025, c.128, California AB 831, NY S5935-A
If slots were your thing
Slots are fast, always open and built to keep you playing. Expect urges at night and when you're alone with your phone. Plan for those hours in your relapse prevention plan, and call 1-800-GAMBLER if they get loud.
Blocks and bans buy time. I'm still the last line of defense, and you are for yours. Use the time to build support you can lean on.
Common questions
Does my state's self-exclusion cover sweepstakes casinos?
Usually not, because they aren't licensed as casinos by your state. Exclude from each site directly and block them.
Are sweepstakes casinos legal?
It depends on the state. New Jersey, California and New York have banned them, and other states have acted too. Either way, if you have a problem, block them.
What about free social casino apps?
If they keep you playing or spending, treat them the same way. Delete them and lock app store purchases.
Does self-exclusion cover online slots?
In states that license online casinos, yes, through the state's online or iGaming track. Enroll at lifetime where offered.