At Maryland Betting Hub, we promote responsible gambling. By informing users on the best betting practices and how to manage funds, bettors can learn about the various tools available at leading sites that can help limit losses and reduce overspending.
Read on as we reveal our approach, which is to ensure that all users have a fun and exciting experience while staying safe when betting.
Understanding Responsible Gambling in Maryland
If you are new to online betting and are not familiar with responsible gambling practices, have no fear. We provide all the information needed to help users stay in control of their betting habits.
What Does Responsible Gambling Mean?
Responsible gambling refers to placing wagers within affordable limits. We promote online betting only as an enjoyable and entertaining experience, rather than a source of financial gain.
The overall purpose of responsible gambling policies is to provide help for any gambling addiction, whether that means identifying signs or offering links to available resources.
Why Responsible Gambling is Crucial for Maryland Bettors
For those in Maryland, responsible gambling is an important way to prevent any gambling-related harm. Through the regulations that have been set by the Maryland Lottery and Gaming Control Agency, the state commits to providing player protection. This applies to all users of any licensed sportsbook within the state.
Maryland Gambling Laws & Player Protection
Maryland has strict laws in place about online gambling. The Maryland Lottery and Gaming Control Agency is responsible for the licensing and regulation of all betting sites. No matter where one chooses to gamble online, Maryland laws offer protection and resources for responsible gambling.
Legal Gambling Age (21+) in Maryland
In Maryland, the legal age for gambling is 21. All users creating an account with a local sportsbook will have to verify their age. Licensed sites do not allow any minors to create accounts online. An age verification process is required for anyone who is opening a real-money account with a Maryland online sportsbook.
Key Rules for Legal Sports Betting in Maryland
Legal sports betting in Maryland is strictly regulated and reserved for residents over 21. The MLGCA ensures that all sites operate legally and meet industry standards. By accessing legal sites in Maryland, offshore betting is reduced.
Betting at sites that are not licensed or regulated poses a significant risk and should always be avoided.
Recognizing Signs of Problem Gambling
Many signs could indicate the presence of a gambling problem. By learning what to look for, one can detect problems early and get the help needed. Here, we cover some of the key signs of gambling problems that should never be overlooked. Ignoring any of these signs can lead to further problems with gambling addiction.
Common Warning Signs of Problem Gambling
- Betting more than you intend to or can afford.
- Chasing losses with larger bets.
- Gambling is affecting your relationships, work, or school.
- Lying about or hiding your gambling activities.
- Borrowing money to gamble or pay gambling debts.
- Feeling unable to stop or cut back on your own.
- Using gambling as an escape from problems or emotions.
- Neglecting personal responsibilities in favor of gambling.
When to Seek Help for Gambling Concerns in Maryland
Getting help for a gambling problem should not be seen as a sign of weakness. It takes a lot to admit when there is a problem. With the numerous resources available in the state, bettors can interact with counsellors to address problem gambling and start learning positive betting behaviors.
Responsible Gambling Tools & Resources for Maryland Players
While each online sportsbook will have tools available to help bettors, there are state-wide organizations that are also available. Maryland residents can access programs that can help with money management and address any issues that are causing the gambling problem.
Maryland’s Voluntary Exclusion Program (VEP): Taking Control
The Volunteer Exclusion Program is available to all residents of Maryland. With this, users can ban access to betting accounts throughout the state. When opting for exclusion, it will affect every operating sportsbook and online casino. To take part in the program, residents can complete an application and submit it to the Maryland Lottery and Gaming Control Agency Headquarters, which is located in Baltimore. The application must be submitted in person or can be completed at a land casino within the state.
Using Sportsbook Features to Set Limits in Maryland
Each licensed sportsbook in Maryland will also have options for managing accounts to prevent gambling problems. There will be various tools that can be enabled, including limits on deposits, spending, play time, and losses.
These limits can be set by contacting the customer support team in the selected sportsbook. In addition to setting limits on an account, there is also an option to make use of a cooling-off period.
This is a temporary suspension from the site, allowing users to regroup and take a break from gambling without any permanent account restrictions.
Self-Assessment: Understanding Your Gambling Habits
Self-assessment tests are also available, and these can be found at many sportsbooks. There is also a Problem Gambling Assessment that can be completed at the Maryland Alliance for Responsible Gambling.
This assessment test will help users identify problem gambling behaviors so they can quickly get help to prevent further issues.
Where to Get Help: Maryland Helplines & Support
The state of Maryland offers multiple resources that can be used by residents. Here, one can get help through counselling services and can learn how to regain control of gambling habits.
Maryland Problem Gambling Helpline (24/7)
The Maryland Problem Gambling Helpline is available at all times and can be accessed by calling 1-800-GAMBLER. This is a confidential helpline, so your personal information will never be disclosed.
Online Chat and Text Support
There are also options for online chat and even text support. With digital options, Maryland bettors will always have resources available and can ask for help when they recognize an issue. The support options offered include:
- ncpgambling.org/chat for live online support.
- Crisis Text Line: Text “HOME” to 741741.
- National Suicide Prevention Lifeline: 988
In-Person Support Meetings & Counseling
Some bettors will benefit from in-person support. There are groups around the state that meet regularly to address gambling problems.
These support groups and meetings can help bettors cope with their addiction and learn how to overcome it.
- Gamblers Anonymous – There are GA meetings throughout the state. The Gamblers Anonymous website provides a search option to locate meetings that are local.
- State Funded Treatment – The Maryland Alliance for Responsible Gambling can also refer bettors to state-funded counselling services to address addiction.
Key Maryland Responsible Gambling Organizations
While there are resources throughout the state, there are two key organizations that address responsible gambling in Maryland.
Both provide free services to residents and can offer useful tools to help bettors manage funds wisely and avoid problematic gambling behaviors.
The Maryland Lottery and Gaming Control Agency (MLGCA)
In addition to regulating and licensing online sportsbooks, the Maryland Lottery and Gaming Control Agency also manages the Voluntary Exclusion Program for the state.
As the primary regulator, the MLGCA is dedicated to promoting responsible gambling.
Maryland Alliance for Responsible Gambling (MARG)
The Alliance for Responsible Gambling promotes public awareness and offers tools for the prevention of gambling problems. It also helps direct bettors to support services that may be needed.
Practical Tips for Safe and Responsible Betting in Maryland
When placing bets in Maryland, some tips can be used to ensure a safe experience. These tips help bettors gamble responsibly, which can help prevent any gambling problems down the road. Prevention is the best way to address responsible gambling, so be sure to take advantage of the available tools, resources, and these free tips.
Set Clear Financial and Time Budgets Before You Bet
Before placing any wagers, make sure to have a budget in place. This should only include money that one can afford to lose.
It is also recommended to set time limits through the customer support team at the chosen sportsbook. We suggest looking at the betting budget as an entertainment expense.
Treat Sports Betting as Entertainment, Not an Income Source
Many people dream of hitting it big when betting. However, that seldom happens. By treating your sports betting experience as a form of entertainment, you can manage funds more effectively.
Betting should never be a source of income. If bets are being made using money that should be used for bills or other essentials, this is a red flag and can indicate a gambling problem.
Avoid Chasing Losses: Accept Them as Part of the Game
Chasing losses is something that many bettors consider. After losing, it can be tempting to place additional bets to try to make up for those losses. Unfortunately, this usually leads to additional losses.
Always avoid increasing bet sizes in an attempt to win back money. Set a specific loss limit for every visit to the sportsbook and adhere to that limit.
Maintain Balance: Don’t Let Betting Interfere with Life
Responsible gambling involves knowing how to balance sports betting with the rest of life. Do not let betting habits interfere with your job or family life.
Be sure to maintain a variety of other hobbies to ensure a healthy and responsible experience while wagering online.
Educate Yourself: Understand What You’re Betting On
Always take time to research and be aware of the bets that are being placed. Each type of bet will have a loss-chance, so it is important to gather as much information as possible. This includes reviewing stats on the team, players, and even the weather conditions for a specific game.
Using knowledge of teams like the Ravens and Orioles can provide an edge when choosing the best bets.
Never Bet When Impaired or Emotional
Betting should only be done when one is in the right state of mind. Never place wagers when under the influence, as this can lead to hasty decisions. One way to avoid this is by taking advantage of a cooling-off period offered by the sportsbooks. This allows time to regroup and ensure that all emotions are in check while wagering.
A Final Word from marylandbettinghub.com on Safe Play
At Maryland Betting Hub, we are committed to providing all the information needed for gambling responsibly. By being aware of available resources and making use of them, Maryland bettors can avoid problems associated with gambling online. Seeking help is always recommended, and it is important to detect the signs of a gambling problem early. Maryland offers trusted resources for those who need assistance.
Maryland Responsible Gambling: Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Who can legally bet on sports in Maryland?
Betting in Maryland requires bettors to be 21 and located within the borders of the state.
What should I do if someone I know in MD needs help with gambling?
If you know someone who needs help with gambling, discuss options with them first. You can also seek assistance from the state resources listed on this page.
Where can I find official Maryland responsible gambling information?
Responsible gambling information for the state can be found at the Maryland Lottery and Gaming Control Board website.
How does the Maryland Voluntary Exclusion Program (VEP) work?
The voluntary exclusion program allows bettors to restrict access to all online and land-based casinos and sportsbooks in the state. The options include a 2-year ban or a lifetime restriction.
What tools do legal MD sportsbooks offer to help me gamble responsibly?
Each licensed sportsbook in the state will have tools to help promote responsible gambling. These will include the ability to set limits on deposits, losses, and play time.
Are there state-funded treatment options for gambling problems in Maryland?
Help for problem gambling can be received through state-funded treatment programs. To find available programs at no cost, call the 1-800-GAMBLER hotline.
How do I know if a Maryland sportsbook is safe and legal?
Check for licensing. Every site that is legal in the state will hold a valid license from the Maryland Lottery and Gaming Control Board.
Is there help available for family members affected by problem gambling in MD?
Yes. The National Problem Gambling Hotline can also offer assistance to family members who are affected by another’s gambling problem.