Support for a gambling problem
We're in the process of adding the gambling block feature, which will be available in the next few weeks as we continue to roll out updates.
A gambling problem can affect anyone who gambles, regardless of their economic status, social background, culture, or education level. Certain factors like genetics, environment, medical history, and age can increase the risk of developing a gambling issue.
What are the potential signs of a gambling problem?
- Spending lots of time gambling
- Lying about or concealing gambling
- Struggling to control spending
- Withdrawing from family life
- Being absent from work, school, college or university
- Showing a lack of interest in other activities
- Spending excessive amounts of time on a computer or device
How much money do you have to lose before gambling becomes a problem?
Gambling can be a problem regardless of how much money is lost or won. Financial difficulty is only one potential consequence of a gambling problem. Gambling problems can negatively impact an individual's relationships, job, mental or physical health, or any other aspect of their life.
Can you have a gambling problem if you only gamble occasionally?
Yes, the frequency of gambling doesn't define a gambling problem. Even if you don’t gamble every day or regularly, gambling can still have negative financial and emotional impacts.
What should you do if you think you or someone you know has a gambling problem?
If you have concerns about your or someone else's gambling habits, there are sources of support available like the National Gambling Helpline. It’s important to be supportive and non-judgmental.
Where can you find more information about responsible gambling?
For more information about responsible gambling as well as other advice and support, visit the UK Gambling Commission's website, TalkBanStop, Gamble Aware or contact the National Gambling Helpline.
How can we help you if you’re dealing with a gambling activity?
We offer a gambling block feature to help you manage your gambling activity. This feature specifically blocks payments to gambling sites. Visit What is a Gambling Block? for more information.
How do I turn on the gambling block within my PayPal account?
To turn on the gambling block on the PayPal app:
- Go to Wallet.
- Choose Payment controls under Preferences.
- Turn on the Gambling block.
To turn on the gambling block on the PayPal website
- Go to Account.
- Choose Payments.
- Choose Payment controls under Payment preferences.
- Turn on the Gambling block.
This feature will block gambling payments and can help you take control of your spending at gambling sites.
Can I turn off the gambling block?
Yes, you can turn off the block whenever you want. Once you turn off this block, you’ll have to wait 3 days before you can make gambling payments again.
How do I turn off the gambling block?
To turn off the gambling block on the PayPal app:
- Go to Wallet.
- Choose Payment controls under Preferences.
- Turn off the Gambling block.
Here is how to turn off the gambling block on the PayPal website:
- Go to Account.
- Choose Payments.
- Choose Payment controls under Payment preferences.
- Turn off the Gambling block.
Once you turn off the gambling block, you’ll have to wait 3 days before you can make payments to gambling sites again.
What are other sources of support for managing my finances?
If you need support managing your finances, there are many free sources of help and support available from organizations such as:
- Moneyhelper (Government-backed financial guidance provider)
- Citizens Advice Bureau (Living costs, bills & benefits advice)
- StepChange Debt Charity (Debt solutions & advice)
- Debt Advice Foundation (Free confidential support)
- National Debtline (Debt solutions & support)
- AgeUK (Legal, benefits, scams, & money advice)
- Business Debtline (Free business crisis advice)
- Low Incomes Tax Reform Group (Free tax advice)
- Taxaid (Tax problem help)
Visit our Help Centre for additional information on Who are vulnerable customers.