Responsible Gambling Texas 2026

Not sure if your gambling habits are becoming harmful? Look for these red flags:

• Chasing losses: Trying to win back money you’ve lost by betting more.
• Lying about gambling: Hiding the extent of your play from family or friends.
• Spending more than you can afford: Using bill money, rent, or savings to gamble.
• Neglecting responsibilities: Missing work, school, or family obligations.
• Feeling irritable when trying to cut back: Restlessness or anxiety when not gambling.
• Borrowing money or selling possessions: To fund gambling.
• Using gambling as an escape: To cope with stress, depression, or loneliness.

If you recognize any of these signs, consider using the self‑exclusion tools below or calling the helpline.

Most recommended casinos offer built‑in responsible gambling tools. You can:

• Set deposit limits: Daily, weekly, or monthly limits on how much you can deposit.
• Set loss limits: Automatically stop play after a certain loss amount.
• Set wagering limits: Restrict the total amount you can bet per session.
• Time reminders: Pop‑up alerts showing how long you’ve been playing.
• Self‑exclusion: Permanently or temporarily block access to your account.

To activate these tools, go to your account settings at any of our recommended casinos (Bitstarz, Lucky Creek, Jackbit, Wild Casino). If you need assistance, contact customer support.

For sweepstakes casinos, you can also request self‑exclusion via email to support@luckycreek.com (example).

1. Set a budget before you play – only gamble with money you can afford to lose.
2. Use deposit limits – activate them in your casino account settings.
3. Never chase losses – accept losses as part of the game.
4. Take regular breaks – step away from the screen every hour.
5. Don’t gamble when upset or under the influence – emotional or impaired decisions lead to losses.
6. Treat gambling as entertainment, not a way to make money – the house always has an edge.
7. Keep a gambling diary – track time and money spent.
8. Use reality checks – set an alarm to remind you how long you’ve been playing.
9. Balance gambling with other activities – don’t let it become your only hobby.
10. Know when to stop – if you’re no longer having fun, log out.

For more detailed advice, read our complete responsible gambling guide →

• Texas Council on Problem Gambling (TCPG): Provides education, advocacy, and referral services. Call 1-800-572-4009.
• Texas Health and Human Services: Offers substance use and gambling disorder treatment resources. Visit their website for a list of approved providers.
• Gamblers Anonymous (GA) Texas meetings: In‑person and virtual meetings across Houston, Dallas, Austin, San Antonio, and other cities. Find a meeting at gamblersanonymous.org.
• Gam-Anon Texas: Support for family members and friends of problem gamblers.

These organizations are independent and highly respected. Reach out without fear of judgment.

• Approach with compassion – avoid anger or accusations.
• Express concern – use “I” statements (e.g., “I’m worried about you because…”).
• Encourage professional help – offer to call 1-800-GAMBLER together.
• Suggest self‑exclusion – help them block access to casinos.
• Consider financial safeguards – monitor joint accounts or limit access to credit cards.
• Join Gam-Anon – find support for yourself.

Remember: you cannot force someone to change, but you can offer resources and support.

If gambling has caused financial hardship, consider these steps:

• Create a budget – prioritize essential expenses (rent, utilities, food).
• Contact a non‑profit credit counselor – organizations like the National Foundation for Credit Counseling (NFCC) can help.
• Avoid “get rich quick” schemes – gambling to solve debt only makes it worse.
• Use a debt management plan – consolidate payments if needed.
• Block access to funds – use self‑exclusion and limit payment methods.

For more financial guidance, see our financial recovery guide →