Gambling can start as a form of entertainment but can spiral into financial hardship for some individuals. If you’re struggling with gambling and feel that your casino visits are contributing to growing debt, you’re not alone, and there are steps you can take to regain control. This article will walk you through how to voluntarily ban yourself from casinos in British Columbia and explore options for dealing with gambling-related debt.
Understanding the Issue: When Gambling Becomes a Problem
Gambling becomes a problem when it begins to interfere with your financial stability, relationships, or mental well-being. Many people continue to chase losses, believing they can win back what they’ve already lost, but this often leads to deeper financial trouble. The good news? Help is available, and the first step may be removing yourself from the temptation altogether.
How Do I Ban Myself from a BC Casino?
In British Columbia, the BC Lottery Corporation (BCLC) offers a self-exclusion program called Game Break. This voluntary program allows you to ban yourself from entering casinos and online gambling platforms operated by BCLC.
Here’s How to Sign Up for Game Break:
- Online Registration: Visit gamebreak.bclc.com to start the self-exclusion process.
- In-Person Registration: You can also enroll by visiting any BCLC casino or gaming centre in BC and speaking to a staff member.
- By Phone: Contact BCLC’s customer support at 1-866-815-0222 for help with enrollment.
You’ll be asked to choose the duration of your self-exclusion; options typically range from 6 months to 3 years. Once enrolled, you will be barred from entering casinos and can request your name be removed from PlayNow.com, BCLC’s online gambling site.
Important Note:
The Game Break program is completely voluntary. It is not legally enforceable, but BCLC takes it seriously and will use facial recognition and security staff to help enforce the ban. It’s a helpful step in removing temptation while you work on deeper financial and personal challenges.
Why Self-Banning Isn’t Enough
While removing access to gambling facilities can help, it doesn’t erase the debt that may have already accumulated. If gambling has left you unable to pay your bills, keep up with credit cards, or if creditors are beginning to call, it’s time to explore debt relief options.
Gambling Debt: What Can You Do?
At C.E. Craig & Associates Inc., we work with individuals across British Columbia who are struggling with gambling-related debt. You may be wondering: Can gambling debt be included in a bankruptcy or consumer proposal?
The Answer: Yes, But With Caveats
Under the Bankruptcy and Insolvency Act (BIA), gambling debts can be included in a bankruptcy or consumer proposal, but they are considered high-risk debts and may raise red flags with creditors or the court. If it appears that gambling was reckless or fraudulent (e.g., you racked up large credit card bills days before filing), the court or your Licensed Insolvency Trustee (LIT) may challenge your discharge or impose conditions.
This is why full disclosure is essential. A Licensed Insolvency Trustee will guide you through the process, review your financial history, and help you prepare a transparent file that addresses creditor concerns head-on.
Options for Gambling Debt Relief in BC
1. Consumer Proposal
A consumer proposal is a legally binding settlement that allows you to repay only a portion of your unsecured debts (including credit cards, lines of credit, payday loans) over a period of up to five years. It’s an alternative to bankruptcy and allows you to keep your assets. Click here and learn the advantages and disadvantages of a Consumer Proposal.
2. Personal Bankruptcy
If your debts are too large to manage, bankruptcy may be the right path. While it’s a serious decision, it can offer a clean slate and stop all collection action. Gambling debts can be included, but as noted above, they must be handled carefully. Click here to learn more about Personal Bankruptcy.
3. Debt Counselling
If you’re not yet at the point of insolvency, credit counselling could help you structure your payments and develop a realistic budget. However, these plans are informal and don’t carry the legal protections of proposals or bankruptcy.
Getting Help: Next Steps to Take
If you’re ready to take control of your gambling and financial situation, here’s what to do next:
- Start with Self-Exclusion: Sign up for the BCLC’s Game Break program to remove gambling access.
- Track Your Debt: Make a list of your debts and monthly payments. Include gambling debts and any money owed to friends or family.
- Contact a Licensed Insolvency Trustee: An LIT is the only professional in Canada legally authorized to file consumer proposals and bankruptcies. Consultations are confidential and free.
At C.E. Craig & Associates Inc., we help people across Victoria, Langford, Nanaimo, and throughout British Columbia. We’ll help you understand your options, talk to your creditors, and craft a plan that works for you.
