Gambling should always be entertainment, not a way to make money or solve financial problems. This page covers what to know before you play and where to get help if you need it.

You Must Be 21 or Older

All real-money gambling referenced on this site is restricted to individuals 21 years of age or older, physically located within New Jersey, in accordance with state law.

Play Within Your Means

Set a budget before you play and treat it as the cost of entertainment, not money you expect to get back. Never borrow money to gamble, and never chase losses with bigger bets.

Use the Tools Available to You

Every NJ-licensed operator offers deposit limits, time-outs, and self-exclusion options directly in account settings. See our responsible gambling tools guide and our guide to New Jersey’s self-exclusion program for details.

Know the Warning Signs

Betting more than you can afford, lying about time or money spent gambling, and feeling anxious when you try to cut back are all signs worth taking seriously. See our full guide on signs of problem gambling and where to get help.

Get Help

Free, confidential support is available 24/7 in New Jersey. Call or text 1-800-GAMBLER, or visit the New Jersey Council on Compulsive Gambling for additional resources. If gambling ever stops feeling like entertainment, reaching out is a sign of strength, not weakness.