OLG Targets Players Under 25 With Deposit Limit Rule

The Ontario Lottery and Gaming Corporation (OLG) has launched a responsible gambling measure targeting younger online players. Under the policy, players under 25 will be required to set deposit limits as their engagement increases. The measure is grounded in research identifying this age group as more vulnerable to gambling-related harm. It comes amid growing industry pressure to strengthen self-regulation, particularly around responsible gambling and iGaming advertising.

How the New Deposit Limit Policy Works

Once a player under 25 deposits $500 or more in a single transaction, they will be prompted to set a deposit limit. The limit can be configured on a daily, weekly, or monthly basis. The cap determines how much a player can add to their account within that period.

Pre-commitment tools like deposit limits are evidence-informed and help players define and stick to their spending boundaries.

OLG says the measure ensures players stay within the limits they set for themselves. Duncan Hannay, OLG's President and CEO, said requiring a deposit limit is not about removing choice. "It's about strengthening that choice by helping players to pause and consider what they are comfortable spending," he said.

Ontario Government Supports OLG Player Protection Push

The measure has the support of the Ontario government. Stan Cho, Minister of Tourism, Culture, and Gaming, called responsible gaming a top priority. He described the initiative as reflecting "the strong collaboration between government, agencies, and industry partners to strengthen player protections." The minister added that striking the right balance between individual choice and player protection is essential.

OLG said the policy is a data-driven step that builds on the corporation's existing PlaySmart and BetGuard programs, which offer all players tools such as spending reminders, time-outs, self-exclusion, and deposit limits.

OLG Digital Revenue Hits $585 Million in 2025

The measure arrives as OLG's digital gambling revenues continue to climb. For the fiscal year ending March 31, 2025, OLG reported online casino and sports betting revenue of $585 million, representing a 15% year-on-year increase. Hannay noted that OLG relies on research and best practices to guide player engagement and respond to emerging trends. As a crown agency, OLG has contributed approximately $64 billion to Ontario since 1975. The funds support priorities including healthcare, problem gambling treatment and prevention, and amateur athletics across the province.