The UK Gambling Commission is set to implement significant changes to how online operators manage deposit limits, aiming to provide clearer and more consistent protections for consumers. The revised rules, which will be phased in over the next two years, are part of a broader effort to increase consumer control over gambling and ensure that players can easily manage their spending. These changes come in response to feedback from a 2023 consultation and the findings of the Gambling Act review, which emphasized the need for more robust consumer protections in the gambling industry.

Phased Implementation of Deposit Limits

The new rules will be rolled out in two phases, with the first set of changes coming into effect by the end of October 2025. These early modifications are focused on making it easier for consumers to set and adjust their financial limits, particularly when it comes to the first deposit. From 31 October 2025, online gambling operators will be required to prompt new customers to set a financial limit before making their first deposit. The goal is to ensure that players are empowered to manage their spending right from the outset. Furthermore, these financial limit settings will need to be easily adjustable, allowing customers to review and alter their limits as needed.

Another significant change involves regular reminders. Operators will be required to remind consumers every six months to review their account and transaction information. This is intended to help players stay on top of their gambling habits and ensure that they are continuously aware of their financial situation.

One of the most important changes outlined in the new rules is the clarification of what constitutes a “deposit limit.” From 30 June 2026, all UK online gambling operators will be required to offer a deposit limit based solely on the amount a customer deposits into their account within a set period. This new definition will help eliminate confusion, as only this specific type of limit will be allowed to be referred to as a “deposit limit.” Other forms of limits, such as loss limits or limits on withdrawals, can still be offered by operators but must be clearly distinguished from deposit limits.

The Gambling Commission has emphasized that this move is designed to bring greater consistency to the industry, ensuring that customers fully understand the limits they are setting. The introduction of new limit types, such as loss limits based on total deposits made during a specific period, provides additional tools for consumers to control their gambling behavior.

Improving Accessibility and Responsiveness for Consumers

The new rules also include provisions for making financial limit-setting tools more accessible. Operators will be required to provide clear and visible links to these tools on their homepage and deposit pages, minimizing the number of clicks needed to reach these options. This is intended to make it as easy as possible for consumers to set and manage their financial limits.

Moreover, the rules dictate that gambling operators must respond immediately to any customer requests to decrease their financial limits. This immediate action requirement is part of the Commission’s ongoing commitment to ensuring that consumers have the necessary tools and support to make informed decisions about their gambling.

Helen Rhodes, the Commission’s Director of Major Policy Projects, explained in the Commission’s press release that these changes are part of a broader effort to empower consumers by giving them greater control over their gambling. By ensuring that financial limits are clearly defined and easily accessible, the Gambling Commission aims to reduce confusion and provide consumers with the confidence to make informed decisions. She noted, “Our work will help empower consumers to have greater awareness and control over their gambling.”

Rhodes also emphasized that while these changes offer more control for consumers, they will also support gambling businesses in offering different types of limits to cater to a wide range of customer preferences. This flexibility ensures that operators can continue to provide a diverse array of tools to help players manage their gambling responsibly.

The new rules come after extensive consultation with the gambling industry and consumers. The consultation process, which included feedback from stakeholders in the gambling sector, highlighted the need for more consistency and clarity in how deposit limits are defined and implemented. The Commission’s response to this consultation has led to significant revisions in the original proposals, including the introduction of new limit types and changes to how limits should be communicated to consumers.

Some operators raised concerns about the mandatory implementation of gross deposit limits, particularly in relation to how these limits could impact customer experience and operational flexibility. However, the Commission has made it clear that these changes are necessary to ensure that all consumers have the same level of understanding and control over their gambling activities, regardless of the operator they choose.