Responsible Gaming

The North Carolina State Lottery Commission is committed to supporting safe, legal, and responsible sports wagering. Under Commission Rules and state law, consumers who choose to wager on sports have access to resources that support informed decision-making and help mitigate the risks associated with gambling. Each licensed interactive sports wagering operator has a responsible gaming plan and provides tools and information to empower players to bet safely and within their limits.

While features may vary by operator, the following tools and protections are consistently made available across the industry:

Deposit Limits.  Players can set daily, weekly, or monthly deposit limits to manage how much money they add to their wagering account. These limits help individuals stay within predetermined financial boundaries.

Wager Limits.  Wager limits allow players to control the amount they can bet within a specific timeframe. These self-imposed restrictions support disciplined play and help prevent impulsive wagering behavior.

Time Limits / Session Controls.  Operators enable players to limit the amount of time they spend on their wagering platforms. Once the allotted time is reached, users may be logged out or restricted from further wagering activity for the remainder of the day.

Cooling-Off Periods.  Players may voluntarily suspend their wagering activity for a short period (e.g., 24 hours to several weeks). This feature helps users take temporary breaks from wagering without permanently closing their accounts.

In-App Self-Exclusion. Players may choose to exclude themselves from placing bets for a defined period or indefinitely with a particular operator. Once enrolled with a licensed operator, individuals cannot access their wagering account or create a new account until the exclusion period ends. Note: Consumers can use the North Carolina State Lottery Commission’s Self-Exclusion Program to self-exclude with all North Carolina operators by completing a single form. Learn more here.

Reality Checks. Many platforms offer periodic pop-up notifications to remind players how long they have been active and how much they have wagered. These alerts promote awareness and help players reassess their wagering behavior.

Access to Support Resources.  Operators provide links and contact information for helplines, support organizations, and treatment resources such as the North Carolina Problem Gambling Program (NCPGP). These resources are often available through the app, website, or help center.

Licensed operators in North Carolina must demonstrate a commitment to responsible wagering. To reduce the potentially negative or unintended consequences of sports wagering, operators are required to (among other things):