WatchoverGuide · Massachusetts ·
Massachusetts gambling self-exclusion: how it works
The Massachusetts Gaming Commission's Voluntary Self-Exclusion program lets you exclude yourself from casino gambling, sports wagering and iLottery. You can start by phone or chat, in person or by remote video enrollment. Terms are one, three or five years, or lifetime, and a short reinstatement session is required to leave the list.
What you can choose
You can enroll in one or more of three types: gaming (casinos), sports wagering (retail and online platforms of any Massachusetts-licensed operator) and iLottery (deposits, tickets and games on the State Lottery's online platform). Enrollment does not stop retail lottery purchases. The Commission notes operators may extend a ban to all gambling they offer.
How to enroll
| Route | Details |
|---|---|
| Phone | 24-hour Safer Gaming Education Line, 1-800-426-1234 |
| Chat | PlayWell website, available 24 hours a day |
| In person | PlayWell Info Centers at Plainridge Park Casino, MGM Springfield and Encore Boston Harbor (no appointment), or the Commission in Boston: 617.533.9737 or vse@massgaming.gov |
| Remote | Video enrollment for anyone unable or uncomfortable to enroll in person; needs email and video capability, and the form is shared at the time |
Bring government-issued photo ID that includes your signature. You sign the agreement and have your photograph taken.
Terms and leaving the list
- Length: one, three or five years, or lifetime. Lifetime can be chosen only after completing a shorter term.
- Changing it: you can renew or extend at any time, but cannot reduce the time you selected.
- Ending: the term does not expire automatically. You are removed only after a reinstatement session with a trained professional, offered at the casino PlayWell Info Centers, by chat, or through the Commission. It is described as a point to offer resources and plan, not a test.
- Again: you may re-enroll as many times as you like.
Privacy
The Commission says it will not share your information with a family member, employer or clinician who requests it, and that it and its licensees will not contact you about your exclusion unless your application says otherwise.
Add a phone-level block
Self-exclusion and a phone block do different jobs. Self-exclusion works through licensed operators in that state. A blocker works on your device, including sites no program lists. Many people use both: block gambling sites and apps on iPhone, and compare blocker apps. Watchover blocks gambling sites on iPhone and tells someone you trust if protection is switched off.
Help
If gambling is hurting you or someone close to you. Free, confidential help is available at any hour. Call or text 1-800-MY-RESET, or chat online at 1800myreset.org. It is the National Problem Gambling Helpline run by the National Council on Problem Gambling, and it is open 24/7 (checked 9 November 2026). Some state agencies and operators still print 1-800-GAMBLER; NCPG stopped operating that number after a court ruling on 29 September 2025, so use 1-800-MY-RESET to reach the national helpline. Worldwide support is also at gamblingtherapy.org. If you are in crisis, call or text 988.
Sources, each accessed 9 November 2026: Massachusetts Gaming Commission, Voluntary Self-Exclusion. Programs change; check the official page before you enroll.
Back to the state-by-state overview.
Frequently asked
How do I self-exclude from sports betting in Massachusetts?
Call the Safer Gaming Education Line at 1-800-426-1234, chat on the PlayWell website, enroll at a PlayWell Info Center or the Commission in Boston, or use remote video enrollment.
How long is Massachusetts self-exclusion?
One year, three years, five years or lifetime. Lifetime is available only after you have completed a shorter term.
Does it end automatically?
No. You stay on the list until you complete a reinstatement session.
Can I shorten my term?
No. You can renew or extend it, but not reduce the time you selected.
Does it stop lottery tickets from stores?
No. Retail lottery purchases are not prohibited; the iLottery option covers the State Lottery's online platform.
This page is for information only and isn't a substitute for medical diagnosis or treatment.