How does the program work?
You can move forward
You have to make the decision for yourself. Even if your loved ones want to help, only you can sign yourself up for the Self-Exclusion Program. Start out by signing up for a period of exclusion that makes sense for you.
If you believe your loved one has a gambling problem, it’s understandable that you’d want to help.
However, only the person seeking self-exclusion can sign up for the Self-Exclusion Program. Not even a spouse or family member can do it for them.
Getting signed up
The length of exclusion is up to you. Choose from:
- Six months
- One year
- Two years
- Three years
You will be asked to show your government-issued photo identification. This could be a driver’s license, passport or citizenship card. By completing a self-exclusion agreement, participants consent to be excluded from all Alberta casinos, racing entertainment centres and Play Alberta for a specified time period.
Once the agreement is complete, you are NOT able to withdraw from or cancel your agreement before its expiry date.
During your self-exclusion period
It is your responsibility to honour the commitment you made to yourself. If you try to enter a casino or racing entertainment centre before your exclusionary period is up, you will be removed from the property.
Participants registered in the Self-Exclusion Program will be ineligible from receiving a prize in a gaming facility. (Gaming, Liquor and Cannabis Regulation s.34.5)
Your self-exclusion applies to the Play Alberta website as well.
Supporting your path forward
Choosing to self-exclude can be difficult. Once you’ve decided that it’s the best thing for you, here’s what to expect:
- Self-exclusion begins immediately after you’ve signed the agreement. It lasts for the length of time agreed to and cannot be cancelled or changed in anyway.
- Once you have completed the agreement, your information will be shared confidentially with security offices at casinos and racing entertainment centres throughout the province.
Download a sample Self-Exclusion Program agreement
Download the Self-Exclusion Program brochure
Depending on how long you choose to self-exclude, participants may opt in to receive follow up contact from our team, at the approximate intervals:
- 10 days
- 30 days
- 60 days
- 90 days
- 175 days
These calls are intended to provide additional resource information, as well as check-in to see how you are doing on the program. Upon completing the program sign-up, you will be provided a package with a copy of your self-exclusion agreement and local community resources.
Professional support can help.
Experience has shown that those who seek professional support along with a Self-Exclusion Program, have a much higher likelihood of successfully regaining control of their gambling behaviours. At any time, you can phone the Alberta Health Services Mental Health Helpline toll-free, 24 hours a day, at 1-877-303-2642, for free and confidential support.
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