Play Safe.

The Gaming Commission urges New Yorkers of legal age to Play Safe across all forms of legal gambling, whether it be sports wagering, casino gaming, the lottery, horse racing, or bingo.

Tips for Safe Play

Set time and money limits - and stick to them. 

Don’t gamble to escape feelings of anxiety, stress or depression. 

Know where to get help for gambling harms (see resources below). 

Don’t gamble with money needed to pay bills. 

Don’t make gambling your only source of entertainment. 

Know the odds of the games you choose to play; expect to lose more times than you win. 

Tell friends and family not to gift Lottery tickets to anyone under 18 years old.* 

*Research has shown that the earlier a person begins to gamble, the more likely they are to experience gambling harms later in life. 

 

Questions to Ask Oneself: 

How much am I spending per week gambling? What percent of my paycheck/weekly income is that?  
Am I spending more than I intended?
How much time do I spend gambling each week? Do I spend equal, greater or less time interacting with family and friends? 
Am I honest about my gambling or do I have to hide it because I don’t want others to see how involved I really am? 
Is gambling fun or has it turned into something else? 

How to Get Help

Gambling Too Much? Take a Pause.

Consider your gambling habits and how they might be affecting your life and your relationships. Visit the NYS Office of Addiction Services and Supports (OASAS) to understand gambling harms and start meaningful conversations about addiction and prevention. 

Voluntary Self-Exclusion Self-Exclude from All Gaming Opportunities

Individuals who recognize they may have a gambling problem may self-exclude from all gaming opportunities available in New York State.

Responsible Play Partnership

The New York State Gaming Commission, the New York State Office of Addiction Services and Supports (OASAS), and the New York Council on Problem Gambling formed the Responsible Play Partnership (RPP) to coordinate and raise awareness of problem gambling treatment services across New York State. 

What We Do 

  • Bring all stakeholders together to address gambling harms, including bridging the gap between gaming facility operators and gambling harms treatment providers. 
  • Work to ensure that all gaming entities in the state comply with all rules and regulations and provide access to help for individuals who need it. 
  • Highlight the treatment and service options available across New York State.