by Darren Moore
Starting March 1, 2025, UK gambling operators will introduce stricter financial vulnerability checks under a new directive from the UK Gambling Commission (UKGC).
The move is designed to identify at-risk gamblers, but many argue that the thresholds are too low, affecting casual players who may not consider themselves financially vulnerable.
What’s Changing?
- Lower Thresholds for Checks – The financial vulnerability check limit drops from £500 to just £150 in net deposits over a rolling 30-day period.
- Public Record Screenings – Bookmakers must assess CCJs, IVAs, bankruptcy records, and debt relief orders to flag financially vulnerable customers.
- No Direct Credit Checks – Unlike affordability checks, these are soft screenings using public financial records.
These measures form part of the UKGC’s broader effort to reduce gambling-related harm and prevent people with financial struggles from suffering further losses.
Mixed Reactions from the Gambling Community
While some welcome the move as a necessary safeguard, others see it as unnecessarily intrusive.
Concerns Over Privacy and Player Freedom
Many argue that the £150 threshold is far too low, catching casual gamblers who aren’t at risk. This could push more bettors toward unregulated sites.
Chris, a regular bettor, tweeted:
“Having to justify spending £5 a day on betting is absurd. These checks will just drive people offshore.”Another user added:
“I get protecting problem gamblers, but this is overreach. It’s my money, my business.”
I will refuse to comply with any affordability checks and just hope that I can somehow serve them.
My back up plan is to revert to trading financials if I’m restricted. And I can deposit as much as I like with a spread betting company as GC has no jurisdiction. Absolute joke! https://t.co/zRdUkTKqKY— Peter (@DivineTrading) February 27, 2025
Gambling Industry Worries About Impact on Business
Operators fear these checks could deter recreational gamblers who don’t want their finances screened just for placing small bets. There’s also concern about the administrative burden on bookmakers to monitor and process these new requirements.
What Gamblers Need to Know
If you deposit more than £150 net in 30 days, expect a soft check on financial vulnerability. While this won’t impact your credit score, it does mean your gambling activity may be flagged if you’ve had financial difficulties in the past.
Final Thoughts
The UKGC’s financial vulnerability checks aim to reduce gambling harm, but critics argue they go too far for regular players. Whether these rules will achieve their goal or push more people to unregulated sites remains to be seen.
Darren Moore is an experienced sports writer with over a decade of expertise, having worked with Ladbrokes and Racing Post. He specializes in sports betting, providing expert insights and strategies to help bettors make informed decisions.
