How to Set a Deposit Limit: A Step-by-Step Guide
The most effective way to ensure your gaming remains a fun pastime is to manage your budget before you start playing. Setting a Deposit Limit is a proactive tool that helps you stay in control of your finances.
At PokiesOnline.co, we advocate for all New Zealand players to set these limits as soon as they create an account. Here is everything you need to know about how they work and how to set them.
What is a Deposit Limit?
A deposit limit allows you to restrict the amount of money you can transfer into your casino account over a specific period. Once you hit that limit, the site will prevent you from adding more funds until the time period resets.
You can typically set limits for:
- Daily: Reset every 24 hours.
- Weekly: Reset every 7 days.
- Monthly: Reset every 30 days.
How to Set Your Limit (Step-by-Step)
While every platform looks slightly different, the process for NZ-friendly sites generally follows these steps:
- Log In: Access your account on your chosen platform.
- Navigate to ‘Responsible Gaming’: This is usually found in your Account Settings, Profile, or as a dedicated link in the website footer.
- Select ‘Deposit Limits’: Choose the “Limits” or “Player Protection” tab.
- Choose Your Frequency: Select whether you want a daily, weekly, or monthly cap.
- Enter Your Amount: Input a figure that fits your entertainment budget (e.g., $20 per week).
- Confirm: Save your settings.
Important: The “Cool-Off” Rule
Under standard safe-play regulations, any decrease to your limit (making it stricter) happens immediately. However, if you choose to increase or remove your limit, there is a mandatory 24-hour cooling-off period. You will need to confirm the change again after 24 hours have passed. This prevents impulsive decisions during a gaming session.
Why Use a Deposit Limit?
- Budgeting: It treats gaming like any other entertainment expense, such as a movie ticket or dinner out.
- Prevents “Chasing Losses”: It stops the urge to deposit more money to try and win back what has been spent.
- Peace of Mind: You can enjoy the online pokies you love without the stress of overspending.
Other Tools to Consider
If a deposit limit isn’t enough, most sites reviewed on PokiesOnline.co also offer:
- Loss Limits: Caps the amount of “real money” you can lose.
- Session Timers: Notifies you when you have been playing for a set amount of time.
- Self-Exclusion: A formal request to be blocked from the site for months or years.
Need Further Support?
If you find yourself tempted to bypass your limits or are feeling stressed about your spending, free and confidential help is available for Kiwis:
- Gambling Helpline: 0800 654 655
- Text Support: 8006
- Website: Safer Gambling New Zealand
