Time-out: meaning in casino apps
A time-out is a short break you choose from your gambling account, during which you can't log in to play or deposit until the period ends. Operators that publish their options commonly offer anything from 24 hours to six weeks. It's designed for a pause, not a long-term stop, which is what self-exclusion is for.
By the BestApps editorial team. Last checked .
Key takeaways
- A time-out locks you out of one operator's account for a period you choose.
- Published options at UK operators commonly run from 24 hours to six weeks.
- For six months or more, use self-exclusion or GAMSTOP instead.
- Phone tools such as app timers can back up a time-out on your device.
- What it is
- A short, chosen break from one account
- Typical range
- 24 hours to 6 weeks (where published)
- Other names
- Take a break, cool-off, play break
- Scope
- Usually one operator; check sister brands
- Longer option
- Self-exclusion or GAMSTOP
What a time-out means
The idea is simple: you pick a period, confirm it, and the operator stops you gambling on that account until it's over. It suits moments when you want space without closing your account, such as after a heavy weekend or before payday.
Our casino app glossary lists it alongside cool-off, which many operators use as another name for the same kind of break.
Time-out names and lengths at UK operators
Operators don't all use the same wording. These examples come from what the operators or their app listings publish.
| Operator | Name used | Length published |
|---|---|---|
| BetMGM | Time-out | 24 hours to 6 weeks |
| Jackpotjoy | Account cool-off | 24 hours to 6 weeks |
| PlayOJO | Take A Break | Check the app's settings |
| 10bet | Breaks (in account settings) | Check the app's settings |
Partner tool pages such as PlayOJO's safer gambling tools and 10bet's safer gambling tools describe what each app offers.
How to take a time-out in a casino app
- Log in and open your account settings, then find the safer gambling or responsible gambling area.
- Look for the time-out, take a break or cool-off option.
- Choose a length that covers the period you're worried about, with a little extra.
- Before confirming, check the operator's help pages for what happens to your balance and whether the break can be shortened.
- Confirm, then consider withdrawing any balance and deleting the app until the break ends.
Our guide on taking a time-out in a casino app covers the process in more depth, and how do I take a break from a casino app answers the common questions.
Time-out vs self-exclusion and other blocks
| Tool | Typical length | Covers |
|---|---|---|
| Reality check | A reminder, not a block | Your current session |
| Time-out | 24 hours to 6 weeks where published | One operator's account |
| Operator self-exclusion | Longer, set by the operator | One operator's account |
| GAMSTOP | 6 months, 1 year or 5 years | All online operators licensed in Great Britain |
| Bank gambling block | Until you turn it off, sometimes with a delay | Card payments to gambling firms |
The Gambling Commission's page on self-exclusion (opens in a new tab) explains the longer options. Our entries on self-exclusion and GAMSTOP go into each one.
Backing up a time-out on your phone
A time-out only applies to the account you set it on. Your phone can add a second layer. On Android, Digital Wellbeing (opens in a new tab) lets you set an app timer; when the time runs out the app closes and its icon dims until the timer resets at midnight. Focus mode can pause chosen apps and their notifications altogether.
On iPhone, Screen Time offers comparable limits. Our guides to blocking gambling apps on Android and on iPhone explain the settings.
Turning off marketing during a break also helps. Our guide to notifications and gambling urges explains how push alerts and emails can pull you back.
When a time-out isn't enough
Short breaks work best as part of a plan. If you're taking them often, or feel anxious waiting for one to end, it may help to talk things through. The National Gambling Helpline on 0808 8020 133 is free and open 24/7, and you can also chat with GamCare online (opens in a new tab).
Our page on signs of problem gambling can help you decide whether a longer step makes sense.
18+. Every casino game has a built-in house edge, so over time you should expect to lose what you stake. Set a budget before you play and stop when it’s gone: safer gambling tools and support. Free, confidential help: National Gambling Helpline 0808 8020 133.
Frequently asked questions
What is a time-out on a gambling app?
It's a short break you set on your account, during which you can't gamble with that operator. You choose the length; where operators publish their options, 24 hours to six weeks is common. When the period ends, your account becomes usable again. Our page on taking a time-out explains how to make a break as effective as possible.
How long can a casino app time-out last?
It depends on the operator. BetMGM and Jackpotjoy, for example, publish breaks from 24 hours to six weeks. For a longer break, self-exclusion with the operator is the usual tool, and GAMSTOP offers six months, one year or five years across all GB-licensed online operators. Our self-exclusion entry explains the longer options.
Is a time-out the same as a cool-off period?
In practice, usually yes. Operators use different names for a short break, including time-out, cool-off, take a break and play break. Check the description in the app to see exactly how long it lasts and what it blocks. Our cool-off entry covers the term as it appears in other apps and in bank gambling blocks.
Can I cancel a time-out early?
That depends on the operator's own rules, so check its help pages before you confirm. A break is only useful if it holds when you feel the urge to play, so choose a length you're comfortable sticking to. If you think you'll want to reverse it, a longer block such as GAMSTOP, which can't be cancelled early, may suit you better.
Does a time-out stop me using other casino apps?
No. A time-out normally applies only to the operator where you set it, although some groups apply tools across sister brands, so check the terms. To block all GB-licensed online gambling at once, register with GAMSTOP. To stop the apps opening on your phone, see how to block gambling apps on your phone.
Should I withdraw my balance before a time-out?
It's often a good idea. Money sitting in an account can be a pull back to the app when the break ends. Check the operator's help pages for how withdrawals work during a break. Our guide on how to withdraw from a casino app explains the usual steps and timings, which vary by payment method.