Account closure and self-exclusion process on Ontario-regulated platforms allows players to close their account temporarily or permanently, with self-exclusion programmes registered through the provincial system providing the strongest protection. AGCO regulations require platforms to offer multiple account closure options. This article explains the available closure methods and their effects.
Temporary Account Deactivation
Temporary account deactivation allows the player to take a break from playing without permanently closing the account. The player selects a break duration from 24 hours to 6 weeks through the account settings. During the deactivation period, the player cannot log in, deposit or play. The account automatically reactivates after the break period ends. The deactivation takes effect immediately after confirmation.
Some Ontario platforms also offer a reality check feature that displays a pop-up at set intervals showing session duration, time played and net win or loss for the current session.
Permanent Account Closure
Permanent account closure removes the player ability to log in, deposit or play, and the account cannot be reactivated. The player submits a closure request through the account settings or by contacting support. Any remaining balance below the minimum withdrawal threshold may be forfeited upon closure, while balances above the threshold are processed as a final withdrawal before the account is closed. The closure takes effect within 24 to 48 hours.
Provincial Self-Exclusion Programme
The Ontario self-exclusion programme allows players to register through the platform or directly with AGCO to exclude themselves from all licensed Ontario gambling sites for a minimum period of 6 months, 1 year, 2 years or 5 years. Self-exclusion is legally binding and the player cannot reverse the decision before the minimum period expires. All Ontario-regulated platforms must honour the self-exclusion and remove the player access across all sites immediately.
Account Closure Consequences
Closed accounts forfeit any unused bonus funds, free spins and loyalty points. The player cannot create a new account on the same platform after permanent closure or self-exclusion. Self-excluded players are removed from marketing mailing lists and cannot receive promotional offers. The self-exclusion period runs from the registration date and cannot be shortened or cancelled before the minimum period expires.
Account closure guides that explain the temporary and permanent options and the provincial self-exclusion programme on Ontario-regulated platforms, such as the account management overview on BetPrimeiro Casino Canada, help players understand the differences between closure types and choose the appropriate option based on their need for a break or permanent cessation of play.
| Closure type | Duration | Can be reversed | Best for |
| Temporary deactivation | 24 hours to 6 weeks | Automatic reactivation | Short breaks |
| Permanent closure | Indefinite | No | Permanent cessation |
| Provincial self-exclusion | 6 months to 5 years | No, legally binding | Problem gambling |
- Use temporary deactivation for planned breaks from playing without permanent account loss.
- Choose permanent closure for a complete end to account access with no possibility of reversal.
- Register for provincial self-exclusion through AGCO for legally binding exclusion from all Ontario sites.
Account closure and self-exclusion process on Ontario-regulated platforms offers temporary deactivation, permanent closure and provincial self-exclusion options. Choosing the appropriate option based on the desired break duration and reversibility ensures the account access restriction matches the player needs while protecting their CAD balance through proper withdrawal processing before closure.