Gambling Commission in the United Kingdom (UKGC) started an investigation on deposit limits in online gambling. They are trying to gather feedback on this through public consultation that began on March 10, 2025 and will end on the 30th of April. It is intended to clarify how deposit limits should be communicated and implemented throughout the industry. UKGC is requesting broader changes that are outlined in the Gambling Review White Paper.
Currently, many players already use financial control tools through available apps and platform features to manage their spending habits. These services offer users the advantage of convenience since they are usable via mobile phones, and are as interactive and enjoyable as physical forms of gambling.
The new regulations will demand that all online services providers enforce deposit limits for all customers. Before they make their first payment, customers will have to choose the deposit limit, according to proposed regulations. The consultation is intended to address inconsistencies in how operators define and apply these limits. Also, customers that are already using services will have to review their limits semi yearly and to make adjustments if there is need for them.
Throughout 2024, the UKGC received numerous complaints about “net deposit limits” with some operators. Traditional deposit limits serve as basic constraints specifying the maximum amount a player can add to their account during a given period. Setting a limit of £50 per week means the total funds added cannot exceed £50 within a seven-day window.
But some operators have implemented deposit restrictions that account for money taken out. When a player removes £50 after setting a £100 boundary, they might be allowed to add up to £150 during the same period. This practice has raised concerns regarding potential confusion and unfairness.
The consultation statement explains that financial restrictions defined as “net” deposit limits would not align with their originally proposed definition. Rather than implementing the initial proposals and addressing potential compliance issues later, they’ve decided to seek additional input to ensure the matter is properly clarified.
The consultation includes several questions that appraise the effectiveness of the existing Remote Gambling and Software Technical Standards. These inquiries aim to evaluate how well RTS structure is functioning and where improvements might be needed. The initiative solicits input from various parties, including customers and gambling industry spokespeople, regarding optimal methods to establish and explain deposit restrictions. This consultation aims to prevent misunderstandings and guarantee that players have complete information when controlling their betting expenditures.
Problem gambling continues to be a major concern in the United Kingdom, with reports indicating that an increasing number of people are struggling financially as a result of excessive gambling. The UKGC hopes that clearer deposit limits will help consumers maintain better control over their gambling habits while balancing responsible gaming initiatives with consumer freedom.
The implementation of any new policies resulting from this consultation will be strongly influenced by gambling operators. Many industry leaders have already implemented voluntary deposit limits and responsible gambling tools, but the UKGC’s move could result in standardized requirements throughout the sector.
After April 30, gambling regulators will sift through industry and public comments before finalizing any new rules. The deposit limit changes are only one part of the government’s gambling reform package. If adopted, these rules would join other recent measures aimed at reducing problem gambling while preserving the viability of the UK betting industry.
The Commission created the full consultation document available on its website and invited all interested parties to submit feedback. Final regulations are shaped by public input, and if all goes according to plan, industry compliance is expected by the end of October.