Gambling should be entertainment you pay for. At high stakes, the price is higher, and VIP programmes are designed to make the next level, the next cashback threshold and the next reload feel like reasons to continue.
Limits to set before you join a VIP club
Deposit limit. Set a daily, weekly or monthly deposit limit in your account settings on the first day. Limit increases usually take effect only after a waiting period; decreases apply at once.
Loss and session limits. Most casinos offer them in the account settings or through support. Use them in the weeks when you are close to a new level.
Time-out and self-exclusion. Every casino on our list offers them, through account settings or support. Ask whether self-exclusion covers sister brands: Vave and Slotsgem are one company, as are iWild and Lussurio.
Your manager. Tell your VIP manager your limits. A good one will respect them; if they push past them, that tells you something.
Warning signs
- You raise your stakes to reach the next VIP level before the week ends.
- You deposit again to qualify for cashback.
- You chase losses with bigger bets.
- You play with money meant for bills or savings.
- You hide your play from people close to you.
If any of these sound familiar, stop and talk to someone.
Free help
- United Kingdom: the National Gambling Helpline, run by GamCare, on 0808 8020 133, 24 hours a day.
- Ireland: Gamblers Anonymous Ireland and the HSE's addiction services.
- Australia: Gambling Help Online, free and confidential, 24 hours a day.
- New Zealand: the Gambling Helpline on 0800 654 655, 24 hours a day.
Gamblers Anonymous holds meetings in all four countries. Your bank can also block gambling transactions on cards on request.
Age
Online casinos require players to be 18 or older.