What is Affordability Check?
A regulatory requirement introduced as part of the 2023 UK Gambling White Paper, requiring casinos to assess whether a customer's gambling spending is financially sustainable. Frictionless checks trigger at £125 net loss in 30 days.
In Depth: Affordability Check
Affordability checks are being phased in from 2024–2026 as part of the UK Gambling Act reform. They come in two tiers:
Tier 1 — Frictionless checks (£125 net loss / 30 days): Casinos use open-source data (credit reference agencies, publicly available information) without asking the customer directly. These happen in the background.
Tier 2 — Enhanced checks (£500 net loss / 30 days): The casino may ask the customer to provide financial documentation such as payslips or bank statements.
The aim is to identify customers who may be gambling beyond their means without creating significant friction for the majority of players who gamble responsibly.
Related Terms
UKGC (UK Gambling Commission)
The statutory regulator for all commercial gambling in Great Britain, established under the Gambling Act 2005. The UKGC issues operating licences, enforces compliance, and protects players and vulnerable adults.
Deposit Limit
A player-set cap on how much money can be deposited into a casino account over a daily, weekly, or monthly period. Required by the UKGC — all licensed operators must offer deposit limits. Reductions take effect immediately; increases require a 24-hour waiting period.