Responsible gambling in Ireland starts with one rule: gambling should be entertainment, never a way to make money. You must be 18 or over to bet or play. For general information and support, visit gamblingcare.ie or call 1800 936 725, free and available 24/7.
Tips for staying in control
- Set a deposit limit before you start and stick to it.
- Only gamble with money you can afford to lose, never with money for rent, bills or food.
- Decide how long you will play before you start, and take regular breaks.
- Never chase losses. A losing run does not make a win more likely.
- Do not gamble when you are upset, tired or have been drinking.
- Keep track of what you spend and check your account history now and then.
Warning signs
Gambling may be becoming a problem if you spend more time or money than you planned, find it hard to stop, hide it from family or friends, borrow to gamble, or feel anxious or irritable when you are not gambling. Gambling harm can affect anyone. If any of this sounds familiar, talk to someone you trust or contact one of the services below.
Tools that licensed operators offer
Licensed operators provide tools to help you stay in control. Look for deposit limits, loss limits, session reminders, time-outs for a short break and self-exclusion for a longer one. Set them up when you open an account, before you place a bet, and read how to open a betting account in Ireland for the steps. You can also use the free tools on your phone to block gambling sites and apps.
Support in Ireland
These services provide free help (checked 28 September 2026):
- Gambling Awareness Trust: gamblingcare.ie, freephone 1800 936 725 (24/7)
- Gamblers Anonymous Ireland: gamblersanonymous.ie
- Extern Problem Gambling: problemgambling.ie
- HSE Addiction Services: hse.ie
- Money Advice and Budgeting Service (MABS): mabs.ie, 0818 07 2000
- Samaritans: 116 123 (24/7)
If someone close to you gambles
Gambling can affect families and friends as well as the person who gambles. Support services above also help family members. Talk calmly and without blame, protect your own finances and ask for help for yourself too.
How this site approaches gambling
We only list licensed operators, we explain risks alongside offers and we show 18+ and support information on every page. Offers are not a reason to bet. Read our betting guides and free bets and wagering explained to understand the terms before you accept any bonus.
Last updated 11 October 2026.