Need help now?
Call or text 1-800-GAMBLER (1-800-426-2537), the national problem gambling helpline, any time. You can also chat at ncpgambling.org.
Age and location
Paid DFS and pick'em contests are for adults only. The minimum age is 18 in most states, 19 in Alabama and Nebraska, and 21 in states including Arizona, Iowa, Louisiana, Massachusetts and Virginia. Some operators set their own higher limits. Apps confirm your age and location before you can enter. See where DFS is legal for your state.
Set limits before you play
- Decide on a bankroll you can afford to lose, and keep it separate from money you need.
- Use the deposit, entry and time limits every major operator offers in account settings.
- Don't chase losses by entering more or bigger contests.
- Take breaks; most operators let you self-exclude for a set period.
Our bankroll calculator can help you set daily limits.
Warning signs
- Spending more time or money than you planned.
- Borrowing money or using bill money to play.
- Hiding how much you play from people close to you.
- Feeling anxious or irritable when you're not playing.
Self-exclusion
Every licensed operator offers self-exclusion in its responsible gaming settings. Many states also run statewide self-exclusion programs through their gaming regulator.
Last updated October 1, 2026.