DraftKings has introduced custom cool-off periods that let customers temporarily stop gambling through their account for a self-selected number of days. In most jurisdictions, the option runs from three to 364 days, allowing a two-week break, several months or another interval rather than requiring a customer to select only from preset choices.
The company announced the initiative in Boston on Sept. 14 as part of a broader responsible-engagement effort. DraftKings described the option as an addition to its budget-and-controls tools, intended to give customers more choices about how they manage their play. The rollout coincided with the start of the NFL season, when interest in sports betting typically rises.
A cool-off is designed for customers who believe they have spent more than planned or gambled more often than intended. Once it is activated, it blocks gambling through the selected DraftKings account for the chosen period, but it does not restrict access to other gambling platforms.
The available choices are not uniform everywhere. PlayNJ reported that New Jersey customers may see different cool-off options depending on the DraftKings product they use.
Customers seeking a restriction beyond a single DraftKings account can use New Jersey’s self-exclusion programme, which can apply to internet gaming and sports wagering, Atlantic City casinos and retail sports-wagering facilities, or both. The state’s general timeout guidance separately allows breaks from 72 hours to one year; during such a timeout, people cannot deposit or wager, though they may log in, withdraw funds and view their play history.
New Jersey’s Division of Gaming Enforcement advises players to set and follow time and money limits and to take regular breaks, warning that continuous gambling can erode a person’s sense of time and perspective. The agency provides the 1-800-GAMBLER helpline for people who may have a gambling problem. Governor Phil Murphy established the state’s Responsible Gaming Task Force in June 2024 to advise on measures supporting responsible gaming and addressing problem gambling.
