The UK Gambling Commission (UKGC) has announced new measures designed to help players better control how much they spend on gambling. The changes, announced on 7 October 2025, aim to make deposit limits more transparent and consistent across all licensed online casinos and betting platforms.
Under the new rules, gambling operators must continue to provide tools that let players set personal budgets when registering or depositing for the first time. However, starting 30 June 2026, every operator will be required to offer customers the chance to set a deposit limit that only applies to the amount of money added to their account within a chosen time period. To avoid confusion, only this type of limit can be labelled a “deposit limit.” Other forms of control, such as loss limits or those that include withdrawals, must also be clearly identified as different types of financial limits.
Giving Players More Control
The new approach builds on the UKGC’s ongoing work to strengthen consumer protection and make responsible gambling tools easier to use. From 31 October 2025, gambling companies will have to prompt all new customers to set a financial limit before making their first deposit.
In addition, players will be reminded every six months to review their account activity and spending history to help them stay aware of their gambling behavior. Operators will also need to ensure that limit-setting options are simple to access through visible links on homepages and deposit pages, reducing the number of clicks it takes to reach these tools. Any request from a player to lower their financial limit must be implemented immediately, further reinforcing control and safety.
Together, these measures are designed to make it easier for players to stay within their means while enjoying online gambling responsibly.
Beyond Clarity and Simplicity
Helen Rhodes, the UKGC’s Director of Major Policy Projects, said the reforms were about giving players greater awareness and control over their gambling. She explained that the updated rules would bring “consistency and clarity for consumers choosing to set deposit limits” while still allowing businesses to offer alternative options for those who prefer other types of limits.
The UKGC’s latest reforms come as part of a broader effort to update gambling regulations in line with the UK government’s Gambling Act Review, which focuses on creating a safer, fairer, and more transparent gambling environment. By standardizing how limits are defined and communicated, the Commission hopes to make budgeting tools a regular part of every player’s online experience. This is key in ensuring that gambling activities remain fun, informed, and under control.
