The first set of new deposit limit rules in the United Kingdom are being rolled out from the end of October.
Earlier this week, the Gambling Commission announced guidance for bookmakers on the online deposit rules that were announced back in February.
The rules will be implemented in different stages with the initial phase to begin at the end of this month.
Mandatory deposit limits are more popular than ever, already in place in countries like the Netherlands and Germany.
From June 30, 2026, all online bookmakers in the UK are required to provide users with the opportunity to set a deposit limit.
The Gambling Commission clarified that these limits must be based on the amount customers pay into their account over a set duration.
Bookmakers can also offer loss limits or limits on withdrawals alongside the required deposit limits – which according to the regulator could be loss limits based on gross deposits (total deposits made during a period) instead of deposits minus withdrawal.
The first set of rules will come into play from October 31, which will see bookmakers ensure new customers are met with a prompt to set a financial limit before they make their first deposit.
It should be easy to review and alter according to the Gambling Commission and bookmakers must remind players every six months to review their accounts and transaction information,
As well as that, operators must provide deposit limit-setting facilities via a link on the homepage and deposit pages. The regulator said these have to be clearly visible and accessible, requiring a low number of clicks to reach.
Bookmakers are also required to respond immediately to customer requests to decrease their financial limit. The changes are intended to help players better manage their gambling habits.
Consumer protection is a hot topic in the industry right now following the news a gambler who lost £1.5 million betting on football has sued Betfair for his money back.