Self-exclusion lets you block yourself from gambling for a set period, and every region of Canada offers a way to do it. Ontario added a single portal for all regulated online gambling in May 2026, while Quebec, Atlantic Canada and Alberta run their own programs.
How it works in each region
In Ontario, BetGuard launched in May 2026 at betguard.ca. It lets players opt out of all regulated online gambling in the province through one portal, for periods of up to 5 years.
In Quebec, online self-exclusion lasts from 3 months to 5 years and blocks the lotoquebec.com account. It is free and cannot be lifted early. You can enrol through Manage My Gambling or by calling 1-866-611-5686.
In Atlantic Canada, Break in Play offers breaks from one day up to 36 months. Alberta runs a central self-exclusion platform that covers both land-based venues and regulated online gambling.
What self-exclusion does and does not do
Self-exclusion is a tool to support a decision not to gamble, not a complete solution. It blocks access to the sites and venues covered by the program for the chosen term, which removes the easy option in a difficult moment.
It works best alongside other help: talking to someone, setting up blocks on your devices and banking, and telling a person you trust. Choose a term long enough to make a real difference.
Free helplines
ConnexOntario is open 24/7 at 1-866-531-2600, and you can also text 247247. The Quebec help line is 1-800-461-0140. Other provincial and territorial lines:
- Alberta: 1-866-461-1259
- British Columbia: 1-888-795-6111
- Manitoba: 1-800-463-1554
- New Brunswick: 1-800-461-1234
- Newfoundland and Labrador: 1-888-899-4357
- Nova Scotia: 1-888-429-8167
- Prince Edward Island: 1-855-255-4255
- Saskatchewan: 1-800-306-6789
- Yukon: 1-866-456-3838
- Northwest Territories: 1-800-661-0844
- Nunavut: 1-800-265-3333
Gambling is for adults (19+ in most provinces, 18+ in Alberta, Manitoba and Quebec) and costs money; if it has stopped being fun, these lines are free and confidential.
