Getting help in Massachusetts
If you’re ready for a life after betting, here’s a simple path in MA. Official details are below.
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Step 1: Block access
- BetBlocker (free) or Gamban
- Ask someone you trust to hold the admin PIN
- Mute or remove sportsbook apps and notifications
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Step 2: Self-exclude
- Voluntary Self-Exclusion (VSE) / PlayWell · Massachusetts Gaming Commission (with Lottery for iLottery)
- Open the official page / enrollment path
- How to enroll: Phone Safer Gaming Education Line 1-800-426-1234; PlayWell chat; in-person at PlayWell Info Centers (Plainridge, MGM Springfield, Encore Boston Harbor) or MGC Boston; or remote video enrollment. Contact 617-533-9737 or [email protected]. Bring government photo ID with signature.
- Terms: 1 year, 3 years, 5 years, or lifetime (lifetime only after completing a shorter term first). Removal is not automatic. You must complete a reinstatement session after the term.
- Coverage: Optional tracks: casino gaming area; sports wagering (retail + platforms); iLottery. Retail lottery tickets are not blocked by VSE.
Verified from massgaming.com VSE page
Before you enroll: withdraw balances you can, save records you might need, cancel recurring deposits. Many terms can’t be shortened. If this state has no statewide list, use blockers, helplines, GA, and operator tools anyway.
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Step 3: Protect your money
- Withdraw remaining balances where possible
- Cancel autopay and remove saved payment methods
- Download win/loss or tax records you may need later
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Step 4: Get support
- 1-800-426-1234 (Safer Gaming Education). National: 1-800-MY-RESET.
- National: call or text 1-800-GAMBLER / 1-800-522-4700 / 1-800-MY-RESET
- Gamblers Anonymous meetings
- Gam-Anon for family & friends
- SMART Recovery
- My Progress tracker (private, on your device)
Official self-exclusion details
How to enroll: Phone Safer Gaming Education Line 1-800-426-1234; PlayWell chat; in-person at PlayWell Info Centers (Plainridge, MGM Springfield, Encore Boston Harbor) or MGC Boston; or remote video enrollment. Contact 617-533-9737 or [email protected]. Bring government photo ID with signature.
Common questions in Massachusetts
How do I self-exclude from gambling in Massachusetts?
Voluntary Self-Exclusion (VSE) / PlayWell (Massachusetts Gaming Commission (with Lottery for iLottery)). Phone Safer Gaming Education Line 1-800-426-1234; PlayWell chat; in-person at PlayWell Info Centers (Plainridge, MGM Springfield, Encore Boston Harbor) or MGC Boston; or remote video enrollment. Contact 617-533-9737 or [email protected]. Bring government photo ID with signature.
How long does self-exclusion last in Massachusetts?
1 year, 3 years, 5 years, or lifetime (lifetime only after completing a shorter term first). Removal is not automatic. You must complete a reinstatement session after the term.
What does it cover?
Optional tracks: casino gaming area; sports wagering (retail + platforms); iLottery. Retail lottery tickets are not blocked by VSE.
Can I block betting apps on my phone too?
Yes. Free blockers like BetBlocker, plus your phone's own settings, can block betting apps and sites. Our setup guides walk you through it step by step.
Related guides
- Set up BetBlocker (free) or Gamban
- Block gambling on iPhone or Android
- Block gambling payments at your bank
- Self-exclude from DraftKings, FanDuel, BetMGM, or Caesars Sportsbook
- Count your days on My Progress, or read books that help