Getting help in Virginia
If you’re ready for a life after betting, here’s a simple path in VA. Official details are below.
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Step 1: Block access
- BetBlocker (free) or Gamban
- Ask someone you trust to hold the admin PIN
- Mute or remove sportsbook apps and notifications
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Step 2: Self-exclude
- Voluntary Exclusion Program (VEP) · Virginia Lottery (Voluntary Exclusion Program)
- Open the official page / enrollment path
- How to enroll: 2- or 5-year terms: online DocuSign form on the Lottery page (only if you intend to finish). Lifetime: in person at Lottery HQ or an open casino, call VEP office 804-692-7185 for an appointment.
- Terms: 2 years, 5 years, or lifetime. Cannot remove early. Fixed terms end automatically; contact Lottery before expiry to extend.
- Coverage: Casinos, online sports betting, account-based lottery, charitable gaming, and horse wagering under the Racing Commission. Retail lottery tickets not covered.
Verified from valottery.com voluntary exclusion program page
Before you enroll: withdraw balances you can, save records you might need, cancel recurring deposits. Many terms can’t be shortened. If this state has no statewide list, use blockers, helplines, GA, and operator tools anyway.
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Step 3: Protect your money
- Withdraw remaining balances where possible
- Cancel autopay and remove saved payment methods
- Download win/loss or tax records you may need later
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Step 4: Get support
- Virginia Council on Problem Gambling: 888-532-3500. National: 1-800-MY-RESET / 800-522-4700.
- National: call or text 1-800-GAMBLER / 1-800-522-4700 / 1-800-MY-RESET
- Gamblers Anonymous meetings
- Gam-Anon for family & friends
- SMART Recovery
- My Progress tracker (private, on your device)
Official self-exclusion details
How to enroll: 2- or 5-year terms: online DocuSign form on the Lottery page (only if you intend to finish). Lifetime: in person at Lottery HQ or an open casino, call VEP office 804-692-7185 for an appointment.
Common questions in Virginia
How do I self-exclude from gambling in Virginia?
Voluntary Exclusion Program (VEP) (Virginia Lottery (Voluntary Exclusion Program)). 2- or 5-year terms: online DocuSign form on the Lottery page (only if you intend to finish). Lifetime: in person at Lottery HQ or an open casino, call VEP office 804-692-7185 for an appointment.
How long does self-exclusion last in Virginia?
2 years, 5 years, or lifetime. Cannot remove early. Fixed terms end automatically; contact Lottery before expiry to extend.
What does it cover?
Casinos, online sports betting, account-based lottery, charitable gaming, and horse wagering under the Racing Commission. Retail lottery tickets not covered.
Can I block betting apps on my phone too?
Yes. Free blockers like BetBlocker, plus your phone's own settings, can block betting apps and sites. Our setup guides walk you through it step by step.
Related guides
- Set up BetBlocker (free) or Gamban
- Block gambling on iPhone or Android
- Block gambling payments at your bank
- Self-exclude from DraftKings, FanDuel, BetMGM, or Caesars Sportsbook
- Count your days on My Progress, or read books that help