Even though only a small number of active gamblers struggle with problem gambling, this doesn’t mean the topic should be ignored.
One of the ways to put an end to gambling addiction and problems is self-exclusion.
Our expert guide will focus on self-exclusion in the Yellowhammer State.
Alabama is not known as a gambling mecca. Betting and gambling in this state are illegal, but a few exceptions exist.
Players can visit one of the three tribal casinos in Alabama operated by the Poarch Band of Creek Indians.
Additionally, Alabama allows players to use Sweepstakes Casinos, which are perfect for remote casino-style entertainment.
Our guide will help you understand your options when you want to ban yourself from activities in Sweepstakes and land-based casinos.
We’ll also share the responsible gambling features you can try before activating self-exclusion.
Stay on this page to discover the options you have to stay in control.
What Is Self-Exclusion At A Casino?
Whether we’re discussing self-exclusion at tribal or Sweepstakes casinos, it all comes down to stopping gambling addiction in the end.
This step is the final step you can take to prevent a real threat to your finances and health.
The self-exclusion option is simply a ban that helps you stop gambling in Alabama.
When the tribal casinos put you on their self-exclusion lists, you won’t be able to use their gambling facilities.
Regarding Sweepstakes Casinos, you won’t be able to log in and play games.
Although playing these games doesn’t require money, you might still be able to purchase virtual credits to play more.
Such spending can lead to a financial burden and significant time spent on this activity.
These sites will also do their best not to send you any promotions during this period.
Thanks to self-exclusion, you can prevent yourself from entering casinos and Sweepstakes Platforms for a certain period or indefinitely.
Responsible Gambling Steps To Take Before Self-Exclusion
The tribal casinos in Alabama we mentioned earlier don’t provide many tools to prevent problem gambling.
The management will probably advise you to take breaks when they notice that you’re spending too much time in their facilities, and that’s it.
On the other hand, Sweepstakes Casinos in Alabama provide a wide array of responsible gambling features and tools.
You should try everything at your disposal before activating the final option – self-exclusion.
Here’s what you can expect on most Social Gaming Platforms.
Coin Spending Limits
You can set limits to the amounts of coins you can purchase. These limits can be applied to daily, weekly, or monthly purchases.
Reality Checks
Some operators have questionnaires or give links to such questionnaires that help you assess the gravity of your problem.
Time Limits
Players are allowed to set time limits to regulate this activity. This way, you can’t get carried away.
Many Alabama Sweepstakes Casinos let you set alerts that appear every one, two, or three hours to help you track time.
Time-Out Periods
Time-out periods, which are usually 7, 14, or 30 days, allow you to lock access to your account for a specific period.
So, in a way, time-outs are similar to self-exclusion. The main difference is that they don’t last very long.
Who Controls The Alabama Self-Exclusion List
There’s no single state body that controls a unified self-exclusion list in Alabama.
The closest thing to such a body is the Poarch Creek Indian Gaming Commission, which licenses tribal casinos in its jurisdiction.
According to this body, all casinos must create self-exclusion lists.
So, each casino keeps a “player tracking database” with a universal ban for patron bans and voluntary self-exclusions.
In addition, Sweepstakes Casinos in Alabama also have individual self-exclusion lists.
Due to the lack of a unified list, you should request self-exclusion separately from every Social Gaming Platform.
How To Ban Yourself From Gambling In Alabama
Banning yourself from gambling in Alabama is a simple process.
As noted, no universal procedure or state body regulates these things. However, tribal casinos and Sweepstakes Casinos have their own procedures.
To get yourself excluded from physical casinos, you must talk to one of the casino’s representatives. They will put your name in the database, and you’re good to go.
To ban yourself from Social Casinos, you must follow the steps below.
Visit the Casino’s Official Website
First, you must visit the casino’s official website. Depending on the platform, you may have to contact customer support or use profile settings to initiate the process.
Use the Profile Settings/Contact Customer Support
In the next step, you either use the profile settings and look for a self-exclusion option or contact customer support. In both cases, you must submit the requested documents.
Keep in mind that some sites might require written requests.
Processing and Confirmation
Once you send the request, the casino will check the content and the submitted documents.
The casino usually takes a few days to confirm your self-exclusion request.
Online Casinos Vs. Physical Casinos
Alabama allows Sweepstakes Casinos but doesn’t have real-money casino sites. It also has three licensed tribal casinos.
When it comes to Sweepstakes Casinos, you must follow the procedure provided by the specific casinos you use.
For physical casinos, you must visit the place in person and request to be banned from visiting it.
There’s no universal self-exclusion request that covers all gambling operators in the state.
How To Remove Yourself From The Self-Exclusion List In Alabama
Even if your name appears on one of the self-exclusion lists in Alabama, you can still enjoy casino games at some point.
Here’s how that works.
Check Whether You Can Play Again
Self-exclusion in Alabama generally lasts for at least six months. In some cases, Sweepstakes Casinos let players activate self-exclusion indefinitely.
If there’s a specific period, you should be able to use the site freely once the time passes.
Typically, if it’s for an indefinite period, you should submit a request which will be resolved within three months.
Submit a Request to the Casino
Regardless of the reason for your request, you must submit this request via email.
Removal Request Form and Submission
There’s no specific request form. Every casino has a unique approach, which you should read about on the respective page or contact customer support.
Processing and Confirmation
It usually takes no more than a few days for the casino to process and confirm your request.
It will then remove your name from its self-exclusion list or database, allowing you access to the platform.
Online Casinos Vs. Physical Casinos
Physical tribal casinos in Alabama keep records and databases of players who have requested self-exclusion. The same goes for Sweepstakes Casinos.
Each operator has the right to create their procedure regarding self-exclusion removal.
From what we’ve seen, this is a straightforward process that involves the submission of a request via email or in person.
Who To Contact In Alabama If You Have A Gambling Problem
Whenever you identify a gambling problem, the best thing you can do is to contact professionals. Since gambling is not legal in Alabama, the residents of the Yellowhammer State can rely on nationwide resources.
- National Problem Gambling Helpline
The National Council on Problem Gambling runs the National Problem Gambling Helpline. This network works 24/7 via phone, text messages, and chat services.
Phone: 1-800-522-4700
Email: [email protected]
- Alabama Council On Compulsive Gambling
The non-discriminatory Alabama Council On Compulsive Gambling provides 24-hour support via a national hotline. It services the entire state of Alabama. It trains licensed counselors and connects them to the people who need help.
Phone: (334) 277-5100
Email: [email protected]
- Gamblers Anonymous
This organization offers peer support groups and meetings across the United States, including Alabama. It helps people struggling with gambling addiction. You can find all the Gamblers Anonymous locations in Alabama using the site’s useful filter.
Phone: (909) 931-9056
Email: [email protected]