How to self-exclude from sports betting in Iowa

What to do today, before the state list kicks in

Enroll in person at a state-licensed casino or racetrack, the commission office or a treatment agency, where the form can be handled on the spot; by mail it has to be notarized. Because it takes about two weeks to spread, exclude inside each app the same day.

Then read how to block each app — excluding inside the app is usually faster than any state list, and it’s the first layer of the firewall.

What the Iowa list covers, and what it doesn’t

The gaps people miss

• The Iowa Lottery is NOT covered. It runs a separate notarized program that only blocks prizes over $600 claimed at lottery offices and stops promo mail.
• Tribal casinos are likely not covered by the IRGC list. Exclude separately.
• Prediction markets (Kalshi and similar) are not IRGC licensees and are not covered.
• There is no online enrollment. The form must be notarized, and it takes about 2 weeks to take effect, so self-exclude inside each app right away.
• The decision is irrevocable. You cannot leave early, even from the 5-year term.
• Out-of-state play: multi-state operators may apply the ban elsewhere through company policy, but the state program only binds Iowa licensees.
• Winnings from wagers placed while excluded are forfeited, and entering a casino gaming floor can bring a criminal trespass charge.

How to enroll in Iowa

1. Download the IRGC Voluntary Self-Exclusion enrollment form (Rev. 01/2024) from irgc.iowa.gov/self-exclusion-program.
2. Choose a term: 5 years or lifetime. Both are final and irrevocable.
3. Attach a recent head-and-shoulders photo and a copy of your government-issued photo ID.
4. Sign the form in front of a notary public.
5. Mail it to Iowa Racing & Gaming Commission, 6200 Park Ave., Ste 100, Des Moines, IA 50321. Or enroll in person at the IRGC Des Moines office, any Iowa Gambling Treatment Program agency, or any state-licensed casino or racetrack.
6. Separately, sign the Iowa Lottery's own self-exclusion contract if you also want lottery covered. It is a separate program.
7. Self-exclude inside every sportsbook/DFS app you use as well, and close those accounts, while you wait about 2 weeks for the state list to reach all licensees.

What you need

Mail form: notarized signature, a recent head-and-shoulders photo, a copy of a government-issued ID (driver's license, state ID or similar), plus the ID number and type written on the form.

How long it takes to take effect

About two weeks for the exclusion to reach every licensee's system, per the IRGC Program Overview. The term starts on the date next to your signature on the form.

What happens to your balance and open bets

Accounts with licensees are deactivated and you come off marketing lists (IRGC overview). You forfeit any money or thing of value you win or are owed from wagers placed after exclusion (Iowa Code 99F.4(22); enrollment form). how pre-existing deposit balances and open bets are paid out is up to each operator.

Can you get off the list early?

No. The enrollment form says both the 5-year and lifetime terms are 'final and irrevocable.' IRGC's revocation page says only people who self-excluded before July 1, 2017 can request revocation (online form or mail; processing takes up to 10 business days). whether a 5-year term ends on its own or needs a request. The official FAQ answer did not load; a secondary guide says a revocation form is needed after 5 years.

Free blocking software in Iowa

We haven’t found a state-funded free blocker for Iowa. Gamban costs about $42 a year; the iPhone Screen Time lock is free.