The main types of limits
| Tool | What it does |
|---|---|
| Deposit limit | Caps how much you can pay into the account per day, week or month |
| Loss limit | Caps your net loss over a period |
| Wager limit | Caps the total amount you can stake |
| Session time limit | Ends or warns you after a set playing time |
| Reality check | Shows a reminder of time played and money spent at set intervals |
| Time-out | Blocks the account for a short break, typically from a day to several weeks |
Lowering is quick, raising takes time
Regulated operators usually apply a lower limit straight away, while a higher limit only takes effect after a waiting period. The delay is deliberate: it gives you time to reconsider a decision made in the heat of a session.
Limits in Finland's new Gambling Act
Under the act that applies from 1 July 2027, licensed operators must make players set daily and monthly limits on transfers to the gaming account. Players can also set an immediate exclusion that lasts until the end of the following day.
Setting limits that work
- Decide your monthly budget before you play, not during a session.
- Set the same limit at every operator you use.
- Turn on reality checks so you see time and spend.
- If you keep hitting your limit, take a time-out or self-exclude instead of raising it.
Choosing your numbers
Start from your budget
Work out what is left after rent, bills and savings, and set a monthly deposit limit well inside that amount.
Add a time limit
Session reminders or time limits help you notice how long you have been playing.
Review, do not chase
Look at your limits once a month. If you want to raise one, wait a few days before deciding.
Questions and answers
Why can't I raise my limit immediately?
A waiting period before a higher limit applies is a standard safeguard. It prevents decisions made while chasing losses.
What is the difference between a time-out and self-exclusion?
A time-out is a short break, usually days or weeks. Self-exclusion is longer, cannot be ended early and, in national schemes, covers every licensed operator.
Do limits apply across different casinos?
No. A limit set at one operator only applies there, so set limits at each site you use.
Sources
Eduskunta — Committee report on the Finnish Gambling Act (HaVM 28/2025)