At BetOffshoreNow, we believe sports betting should always be a form of entertainment — never a way to earn a living. This guide explains how to gamble responsibly, recognize risky behaviors early, and access confidential support whenever you need it.

If you’re new to sports betting, we strongly recommend reviewing beginner resources on point spreads, moneylines, parlays, and teasers before wagering real money. Understanding the basics reduces risk and improves decision-making.

Who We Are & Our Approach (Affiliate Disclosure)

BetOffshoreNow is an independent affiliate publisher. We research, analyze, and compare sportsbooks objectively. If you click a link and create an account, we may earn a commission — this never affects our rankings or recommendations.

We are not a sportsbook or casino. We do not accept bets, hold player funds, or provide customer support for operators.

Always verify your local laws, as sports betting regulations vary by state. Only wager where betting is legal for you.

Age & Access — Protecting Minors

In most U.S. jurisdictions, sports betting is restricted to individuals 21 years or older. Protecting minors is essential.

Best practices include:

  • Never save sportsbook passwords or payment details on shared devices
  • Use strong PINs, biometrics, or separate user profiles on devices
  • Enable parental controls or DNS/ISP filters on home networks
  • Keep betting activity and financial statements private from minors

Responsible Play Essentials

Before you begin, set clear boundaries:

  • Establish strict limits for deposits, losses, and session time
  • Use sportsbook tools such as deposit caps, reality checks, time-outs, and self-exclusion
  • Never chase losses — increasing stakes to recover money usually leads to greater losses
  • Avoid betting when stressed, tired, emotional, or under the influence of alcohol or drugs
  • Keep gambling funds separate from money needed for rent, food, or bills

Tracking bets in a simple log can help. If logging makes you uncomfortable, it may be a sign to step back.

Responsible Gambling Tools Explained

Deposit, Loss & Session Limits

Most licensed sportsbooks allow players to set daily, weekly, or monthly limits. Choose amounts you can afford on a bad day, not just on a winning streak.

Time-Outs / Cooling-Off Periods

Temporary breaks (from 24 hours up to 30 days) lock your account and help restore perspective after difficult sessions.

Self-Exclusion

Self-exclusion blocks access for extended periods (6 months, 1 year, 5 years, or longer). Some programs cover multiple sportsbooks. These decisions are typically not reversible early, so choose a duration that feels safe.

Warning Signs of Problem Gambling

  • You plan to stop but continue longer than intended
  • You increase stakes to recover losses
  • You hide gambling activity from others
  • Betting interferes with work, school, sleep, or relationships
  • You experience guilt, anxiety, irritability, or sadness related to gambling

The “Prove It” Test

Write down a monthly gambling budget and track every bet for two weeks.
If you skip entries, overspend, or feel defensive about logging, it’s time to pause and seek help.

Quick Self-Check

Answer yes or no:

  • Have you skipped important plans to gamble?
  • Do you bet to escape boredom, stress, or sadness?
  • Have you chased losses?
  • Have you borrowed money or used credit to gamble?
  • Have you used money meant for essentials?
  • Do you hide your betting activity?
  • Do you feel irritable when cutting back?
  • Has gambling harmed relationships or reputation?
  • Do urges feel hard to control?
  • Have you thought about harming yourself due to gambling or debt?

Two or more “yes” answers suggest it’s time to stop and speak with a professional.

Where to Get Help

If you or someone else is in immediate danger, contact local emergency services.

United States:

  • 1-800-GAMBLER — Call, text, or chat 24/7 (free & confidential)
  • National Council on Problem Gambling — ncpgambling.org for treatment referrals
  • Many states also offer self-exclusion programs and local support services

You can also reach out to a trusted friend, counselor, doctor, or family member.

Supporting Someone at Risk

Watch for secrecy, growing debt, mood changes, or sudden spending. Approach with empathy using “I” statements, not blame. Encourage professional help and set firm boundaries about lending money. Helplines also support friends and family members.

Legal Notice & Editorial Policy

This content is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal, medical, or financial advice.
While we strive for accuracy, sportsbook features and laws can change. Always verify details directly with operators and regulators.

Feedback or corrections? Please contact us through our support page.

Frequently Asked Questions

  • How does self-exclusion work?
  • Are limits or bans shared between sportsbooks?
  • Can self-exclusion be reversed?
  • How do I file a complaint?
  • Where can beginners learn betting basics safely?

Reminder (U.S. — 21+)

Struggling with gambling? Call or text 1-800-GAMBLER for free, confidential help anytime.