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The apps are always one tap away. This page is about putting distance back between you and them in New York, starting with the state's own self-exclusion rules and ending with people who can help.
New York at a glance
| Online sports betting | Yes, through licensed apps |
|---|---|
| Minimum age | 21 |
| Regulator | New York State Gaming Commission |
| Statewide self-exclusion | New York Voluntary Self-Exclusion |
| How to sign up | In person, or notarized form by mail |
| Gambling treatment programs | New York State gambling treatment programs |
Is sports betting legal in New York?
New York allows sports betting online through mobile apps and in person at its casinos. It started in 2019 in person, with mobile apps since January 2022. You have to be at least 21 to bet on sports in New York. Betting is overseen by the New York State Gaming Commission.
How to self-exclude from sports betting in New York
Self-exclusion means putting your own name on a list that stops licensed sportsbooks from taking your bets. It takes the decision out of your hands on the nights you can't trust yourself.
In New York, the main option is the New York Voluntary Self-Exclusion.
- It covers internet and account wagering and sports wagering in New York.
- You choose 1 year, 3 years, 5 years or lifetime.
- You submit a form with a recent photo: in person at a gaming facility or the commission's Schenectady office, or by mail with the form notarized.
- The New York Council on Problem Gambling offers free electronic notary services, so you don't have to find a notary yourself.
Also self-exclude inside each sportsbook app you've used, usually under account settings or responsible gaming. It takes effect right away and covers you while the state program processes.
Want help closing each account one by one? Start with the big three sportsbooks, then work through the rest.
Watching sports in New York without betting
Sportsbooks know which teams people in New York care about, so the promos follow the Buffalo Bills, New York Knicks, Brooklyn Nets and Syracuse Orange. Mute the commercials, delete any betting app that's still hiding on your phone, and give yourself something to do at halftime.
Mark US Open tennis (Queens) and Belmont Stakes on your calendar too. Big events bring big promos, so plan those days a week ahead.
More on this in watching sports after you quit.
Put more walls between you and a bet
Every step you put between you and a bet helps on a bad night.
- Put a blocker on your phone and computer, and have someone else hold the passcode. See how to block sports betting apps.
- Take saved payment methods off every betting site and lower your daily ATM and transfer limits.
- Behind on bills? NFCC.org can match you with a nonprofit credit counselor.
Free help in New York
Start with whichever one you can do this week.
- Treatment and support in New York: the National Council on Problem Gambling lists resources for New York, including state-funded and low-cost options where they exist.
- People who get it: a GA meeting costs nothing, and you can join online from anywhere in the state. Not sure GA fits? Compare it with SMART Recovery.
- Counselors: a counselor who specializes in gambling can make a real difference. Find Help lists counselors, online therapy and programs that serve New York.
- A person to talk to tonight: call or text 1-800-MY-RESET (1-800-697-3738). It's free, confidential and open around the clock.
- In crisis: call or text 988, or call 911 if you're in immediate danger.
Gambling treatment programs in New York
Most people start with weekly counseling. If betting keeps winning anyway, these programs offer more structure. They're listed because they treat gambling specifically, and nobody pays to be on this list.
- New York State gambling treatment programs (New York). Dozens of state-designated outpatient programs for gambling. Medicaid covers care at these programs.
Not sure what level of help fits? The app asks a few questions and points you to it.
If you love someone who bets in New York
If it's your partner, child or friend who's betting, start with yourself: separate your money, check your credit report, and find support at Gam-Anon. Then read how to help someone with a gambling problem before you talk.
FAQ
What's the legal sports betting age in New York?
You have to be at least 21 to bet on sports in New York.
How do I self-exclude from sports betting in New York?
Check the official page for New York's current enrollment steps.
Does self-excluding from one app cover every sportsbook in New York?
No. Excluding inside one app only blocks that app. The New York Voluntary Self-Exclusion is what covers licensed operators across New York, so use both, and add a blocker for offshore sites that ignore state programs.
Is there gambling rehab in New York?
Yes. New York State gambling treatment programs treats gambling specifically. Many people start with outpatient counseling first, and New York's problem gambling program can help you figure out which level fits. See your options on Find Help.
Sources: New York State Gaming Commission: voluntary self-exclusion; Fox Sports: where sports betting is legal (May 2026); National Council on Problem Gambling: help by state; NCPG: 1-800-MY-RESET. Checked October 2026. Rules and programs change, so confirm current details on the official page before you rely on them. Unbettable isn't affiliated with any sportsbook, casino or state agency.
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