GamStop is a free tool for UK players that blocks access to online casinos and betting sites licensed in the UK. It’s designed to help players take a break from gambling by stopping them from logging into these sites for a set amount of time. However, once you’ve signed up, the exclusion cannot be canceled early. This often leads players to search for ways to remove or cancel Gamstop before their self-exclusion period ends.
In this guide, we’ve gathered all the information you need about managing your GamStop self-exclusiobn status. Whether you’re exploring how to remove GamStop entirely, waiting for your exclusion to finish, or looking for alternatives to enjoy online gambling, we’ll explain the options clearly and responsibly.
Can You Cancel GamStop Before Your Self-Exclusion Ends?
No, you can’t cancel GamStop before your self-exclusion ends. When you sign up, you pick a time frame—6 months, 1 year, or 5 years—and GamStop locks it in. This ensures that you stick to your decision to take a break from gambling, giving you time to regain control. From our perspective, this strict approach is what makes this self-exclusion tool so effective for those who need help managing their gambling habits.
That said, we understand that some players may later feel ready to return sooner. Unfortunately, cancelling GamStop early isn’t an option, and you’ll need to wait until your exclusion period runs out to regain access to UK gambling sites. If you’re looking for alternatives, there are ways to gamble responsibly without violating the terms of the gambling restriction, but while your self-exclusion is still active, it’s important to understand that GamStop itself cannot be removed or bypassed until the time you selected has passed.
GamStop Cancel: Key Details
| 🔑 Key Point | 📋 Details |
| 🔢 Ways to Cancel | 1 (Contact GamStop directly by phone) |
| ✅ How to Cancel | Call 0800 138 6518 |
| ⏳ When to Cancel | After your exclusion period ends |
| ⏱️ Time Needed | 24-hour cooling-off period after request |
| 🆔 What You Need | Full name, date of birth, and ID details |
| 💰 Cost | Free |
| 🎯 Result | Access to UK-licensed gambling sites restored |
How to Stop GamStop: Step-by-Step Guide
If you’re sure that your self-exclusion period is over, here’s how to end GamStop exclusion. This is the only reliable way to remove GamStop block and get back to UK-licensed gambling sites. The process involves checking your exclusion status, contacting GamStop, and waiting for a short cooling-off period.
Step 1: Check If Your Self-Exclusion Period Is Over
The first step in your self-exclusion removal request is to make sure your exclusion period (6 months, 1 year, or 5 years) has ended.
- Go to the official GamStop website: www.gamstop.co.uk and log into your account to check your status.
- If you’re unsure, check the confirmation email you received when you signed up. It will have the start and end dates of your exclusion.
- You won’t be able to move forward if your exclusion period hasn’t finished, so confirm this before taking the next step.
Note: We’ve noticed that some people confuse GamStop with GameStop, the video game retailer. They are completely different, so make sure you’re on the right website!
Step 2: Contact GamStop to Make the Cancellation Request
After confirming your exclusion period is over, the next step is to request Gamstop removal. The exclusion doesn’t end automatically, so you’ll need to make this request yourself.
At the moment, calling directly is the only way to remove your GamStop exclusion. Here’s how you can do it:
- Phone: Call 0800 138 6518.
Their lines are open from 10am to 8pm, every day of the week.
When you contact GamStop, explain that your exclusion period has ended and you want to remove the exclusion from your account. They’ll verify your details and process your request.
Step 3: Cooling-Off Period
After contacting GamStop, you’ll need to wait for a 24-hour cooling-off period. During this time, your restriction will stay in place.
We think this step is useful because it gives you time to consider your decision before GamStop processes the request. Once the 24 hours are up, they’ll move forward with removing your restriction.
Step 4: Cancellation
After the cooling-off period, GamStop will cancel your restriction. You’ll get a confirmation that your self-exclusion has been removed, and you’ll be able to access UK-licensed gambling sites again.
We recommend checking your gambling accounts afterward to make sure everything is working. If you run into issues, GamStop’s support team is there to help.
Important Reminder: Request Gamstop Removal!
From what we’ve seen, many players forget to contact GamStop after their exclusion period ends. If you don’t request removal, your restriction will automatically renew for up to 7 years. To avoid this, make sure to reach out to GamStop as soon as your exclusion period is over.
Things to Consider Before Removing GamStop
Removing GamStop is a big decision that requires careful thought. It gives you access to UK-licensed gambling sites again, but it also means taking full responsibility for your gambling habits. Use this checklist to see if undoing GamStop is the right step for you.
✅ Pre-Cancellation Checklist
1. Gambling Habits
2. Financial Stability
3. Mental and Emotional Readiness
4. Support System
5. Your Reasons for Removing GamStop
If you can check all the boxes, it’s likely you’re ready for GamStop removal. If there are areas where you feel unsure, it might be a good idea to wait or keep the gambling block in place a little longer. Removing GamStop is a big step, so make sure your decision is thoughtful and that gambling remains safe and enjoyable for you.
Pros and Cons of Cancelling GamStop
Cancelling GamStop is a good idea if you’re ready to gamble responsibly. But if you’re unsure about staying in control when gambling again, keeping the restriction active is the safer choice. Think about both the pros and cons before deciding what’s best for you:
| Pros | Cons |
| You can access UK-licensed gambling sites again, which are safe and regulated. | Cancelling GamStop might lead to gambling more than planned if you’re not ready. |
| You’ll have a wider choice of games compared to non-GamStop sites. | You lose GamStop’s protection from gambling too much. |
| Trusted payment methods like debit cards and bank transfers are available. | Cancelling the self-exclusion could be a rushed decision if not carefully thought out. |
| You can get exclusive promotions and bonuses from UK gambling sites. | There’s a risk of overspending without a clear budget or limits. |
| You won’t need to use offshore or unlicensed gambling platforms anymore. | The process takes time, including a 24-hour cooling-off period. |
How to Get Rid of GamStop – Alternatives in 2024
If you’re looking for ways to get rid of GamStop before your self-exclusion ends, you do have a few options. We know this tool is designed to help players take a break, but if you’re ready to return to gambling, here’s what you can try:
1. Wait Until Your Self-Exclusion Period Ends
Yes, we’ve said this before, but waiting until your exclusion period is over really is the best and simplest way to remove yourself from GamStop. Depending on what you chose when signing up—6 months, 1 year, or 5 years—you’ll need to let that time run out.
Once it’s done, follow the steps in this guide on how to get off GamStop. Call GamStop, make your removal request, and after a quick cooling-off period, you’ll have access to UK-licensed gambling sites again. It might not be the fastest option, but it’s the most straightforward and avoids any complications.
2. Seek Legal Assistance
If you feel your self-exclusion was applied incorrectly or you think there’s a legal reason to remove it early, you could consider seeking help from a solicitor. They can advise you on whether it’s possible to challenge your GamStop registration. This can take time, can be costly, and might not guarantee success, but it’s an option if you’re determined to explore every route.
3. Play on Non-GamStop Casinos
If waiting isn’t for you, another option is to play on non-GamStop casinos. These gambling platforms aren’t licensed by the UK Gambling Commission, so they don’t fall under GamStop’s restrictions. They allow you to keep playing while your self-exclusion is still active, with plenty of games and bonuses available. The main plus is the freedom to gamble despite your self-exclusion status, but the downside is that these casinos aren’t regulated in the UK, so you need to be cautious about safety and reliability.
Remember: Self-Exclusion Won’t Be Cancelled Early!
No matter what alternatives you try—or how tempting some shortcuts might seem—GamStop self-exclusion can’t be cancelled before your chosen period is up. Some players look for workarounds, like making new accounts with fake details, using VPNs to access blocked sites, or even asking GamStop to remove them early. Let’s be honest: these methods won’t work and could cause more trouble than they’re worth.
The only way to get rid of GamStop is by waiting until your exclusion period ends and going through the official steps. This means contacting GamStop, waiting out the 24-hour cooling-off period, and having your exclusion properly removed. It’s the safest and most reliable way to get off GamStop and return to UK-licensed gambling sites.
By sticking to the correct process, you’re not only protecting yourself but also giving yourself the chance to make sure gambling is something you’re ready to do responsibly.
Responsible Gambling After Removing GamStop
Once you’ve successfully figured out how to deactivate GamStop and started gambling again, it’s important to stay in control and gamble responsibly. Here are some tips that we’ve seen work well:
- Set Deposit and Loss Limits Right Away
Before you start gambling again, set deposit and loss limits on your accounts. For example, if your entertainment budget is £100 a month, set that as your cap. Most UK gambling sites make it easy to add these limits, and it’s much better to set them upfront than to risk overspending. - Bet Small to Stay in Control
We’ve noticed that starting with small bets makes it easier to manage your money. A good rule of thumb is to keep bets to 2% or less of your total gambling budget. It’s a safe way to ease back into gambling without unnecessary stress. - Take Gambling-Free Days
Plan days where you don’t gamble at all. Whether it’s spending weekends with family or focusing on work midweek, taking breaks keeps gambling fun and balanced. - Keep an Eye on Your Gambling Time
It’s easy to lose track of time when gambling online. Setting timers or session alerts can help. From what we’ve seen, keeping sessions under two hours works well for most people. - Stick to Essentials First
Before depositing money for gambling, make sure your bills, savings, and essentials are covered. Withdrawing money for these first helps you stay within your limits and keeps gambling as entertainment, not a priority.
By following these steps after you unregister from GamStop, you’ll have a better chance of keeping gambling safe, fun, and under control.
FAQ
Can I remove myself from GamStop?
Yes, but only after your self-exclusion period ends. You’ll need to call GamStop to make the request. Once you do, there’s a 24-hour wait before your exclusion is fully removed.
How long does it take to remove GamStop?
After your exclusion period ends, you need to call GamStop. The process includes verifying your details and a 24-hour cooling-off period. So, it takes about a day once you’ve made the request.
How long does GamStop last?
It lasts as long as the period you chose—6 months, 1 year, or 5 years. You can’t shorten or cancel it early, so you’ll need to wait until the time is up.
Can I cancel GamStop if I was signed up by someone else?
No, GamStop is voluntary, and only the person who signed up can cancel it. If someone else signed you up, it can’t be reversed.
How do I make a self-exclusion removal request online?
You can’t make the request online. The only way to cancel GamStop is by calling 0800 138 6518. GamStop will confirm your identity before lifting the exclusion.