Staying in control at a live blackjack table
Set your limits before you sit down, not at the table. Choose a deposit limit you can afford to lose, a time limit, and a break plan. Free, confidential help is available 24 hours a day on the National Gambling Helpline, 0808 8020 133. This page has no adverts and no operator links.
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Money and ID checks
What to expect from deposits and withdrawals.
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Licence and safety questions
Gamstop, age and complaints in short answers.
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Live blackjack questions
Short answers on how tables work.
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Live blackjack tables
How the rules change what a hand costs.
Limits, time-outs and reality checks
- Deposit limit. A cap on what you can pay in over a set period. Under RTS 12A to 12E, in force from 31 October 2025, operators must prompt you to set one and make the tools easy to find.
- Time-out. A short break from your account that you choose.
- Reality check. A reminder of how long you have been playing.
Each operator names these tools differently; read its safer gambling page and set them up first.
Self-exclusion with Gamstop
Gamstop is free. It blocks your accounts with licensed online operators in Great Britain for 6 months, 1 year or 5 years. A block takes effect within 24 hours. Once you register, you cannot cancel the period. Other options include BetBlocker, Gamban and bank blocks, listed by GambleAware.
Where to get help
- National Gambling Helpline
- 0808 8020 133, free, 24/7, run by GamCare. Source: [GamCare](https://www.gamcare.org.uk/get-support/talk-to-us-now/).
- GambleAware
- Information and support services at [gambleaware.org](https://www.gambleaware.org).
- Urgent
- Samaritans on 116 123; in an emergency call 999.
For what happens with ID checks and money, see money and ID checks. Short answers on Gamstop and age are in licence and safety questions, and the basics of the game are in live blackjack questions.
18+ only. Gambling can be harmful. Only bet what you can afford to lose and set limits.
Quick answers
- What is Gamstop?
Gamstop is the national online self-exclusion scheme. It is free and blocks your accounts at licensed online gambling operators in Great Britain for 6 months, 1 year or 5 years. Participation is required of licensees (SR 3.5.5).
- Where can I get help now?
Call the National Gambling Helpline on 0808 8020 133. It is free and confidential, run by GamCare, and open 24 hours a day. GambleAware also lists support services.
- What limits should I set?
Set a deposit limit before your first hand, using an amount you can afford to lose, and a time limit or reality check. Operators must offer financial limit tools under RTS 12A to 12E.
- Is live blackjack a way to solve money problems?
No. It is a risk with a house edge, not a source of income. If money is tight, do not play and talk to the helpline.