The UK Gambling Commission (UKGC) has announced a three-month extension for licensed operators to implement the second phase of updated deposit limit regulations. Originally scheduled for June 30, 2026, the new deadline is now set for September 30, 2026. This extension provides operators with extra time to meet the technical and compliance requirements outlined in the revised Remote Technical Standards (RTS).

Background of RTS Changes

As stated in UKGC’s press release, the RTS, first updated in October 2025, introduced tools for self-management designed to give players greater control over their gambling. These tools included new deposit limit types, standardised self-exclusion procedures, and automated reminders prompting customers to review their accounts every six months. The second phase was intended to enhance consumer protection further by implementing stricter rules and ensuring that gross deposit limits are clearly highlighted across platforms.

From September 30, 2026, licensed remote gambling operators will be required to offer gross deposit limits to all customers, including reinstating these limits if they were previously removed. Operators must label these limits exclusively as “deposit limits” and ensure they are displayed with at least equal prominence compared to other financial limits. Only gross deposit limits will be mandatory on fixed time frames, while other types of financial limits may continue to operate on either rolling or fixed schedules. Companies must also update customer communications, help pages, and compliance reporting procedures to reflect the correct use of the “deposit limit” terminology and guarantee that gross deposit options are clearly visible within the user journey.

Purpose and Industry Guidance

The RTS amendments originated from recommendations in the Gambling Act review white paper and were designed to give consumers more effective tools to manage gambling risks. Helen Rhodes, Director of Major Policy Projects at the UKGC, explained that these changes aim to provide clarity and consistency for players while still allowing operators to offer flexibility in the types of limits available. The second phase, now delayed, was intended to refine definitions and increase the prominence of deposit limits, supporting safer gambling practices and improving the overall user experience. The UKGC also noted that an earlier version of the RTS 12 annex, published alongside the supplementary consultation response on October 7, 2025, contained minor errors. Operators have been advised to disregard previous copies and refer to the corrected version in preparation for the upcoming enforcement date.

The delay allows operators additional time to align their technical systems with the updated requirements, ensuring a smoother transition and consistent compliance across remote gambling platforms. By emphasising the prominence of gross deposit limits and standardising the terminology, the UKGC aims to reduce gambling-related harm and promote transparency in financial management tools for players. This step forms part of the regulator’s broader effort to strengthen responsible gambling safeguards, ensuring that operators implement clear and enforceable rules that allow customers to set meaningful limits while using online gambling services.