Arizonans who voluntarily remove themselves from state-regulated gambling activities can now receive financial counseling at no cost. The Arizona Department of Gaming’s Division of Problem Gambling has expanded eligibility for the service to people enrolled in the state’s gambling voluntary self-exclusion program.
GamFin, a state-contracted provider, will deliver the counseling through confidential sessions designed for people dealing with financial consequences linked to problem gambling.
“Financial harm is one of the most significant problem gambling impacts felt today,” said Elise Mikkelsen, Division Director. “Broadening access to financial counseling strengthens Arizona’s continuum of care by ensuring more individuals have the tools, support, and guidance they need to rebuild as they continue in recovery.”
Counseling Begins With Immediate Financial Needs
Participants will meet with a financial counselor who has specific experience supporting people affected by problem gambling. The process starts with a virtual appointment during which the counselor and client assess pressing financial concerns and set longer-term objectives.
Further sessions can address individual circumstances involving household budgeting, debt, damaged credit and efforts to establish lasting financial stability. The counseling is intended to provide practical assistance while participants continue their decision to stay away from gambling.
The timing of the service reflects the circumstances of people entering voluntary self-exclusion. Some may seek help soon after making that choice, when financial problems connected to gambling remain an immediate concern.
“Choosing to self-exclude is a real act of commitment, but ending gambling doesn’t erase the financial harm it may have caused. Rebuilding your financial life is part of recovery — not something that can be set aside for later,” said Alex De Marco, Founder, GamFin. “Providing people with practical, judgment-free financial guidance is at the heart of what we do, and we’re proud to team up with the Arizona Division of Problem Gambling to expand access to that support for more Arizonans.”
Eligibility Expands Beyond Treatment Program
Financial counseling previously served people participating in Arizona’s Treatment Assistance Program, which provides affordable outpatient treatment for problem gambling. The latest change makes the service available to those in the voluntary self-exclusion program as well.
The expansion comes after the Arizona Department of Gaming introduced its “Take Back the Game” public awareness campaign. The campaign uses television, radio and digital platforms to promote gambling self-exclusion in the state.
Self-Exclusion Enrollment Reached a Record
During Fiscal Year 2026, 651 Arizonans entered self-exclusion covering casino gaming, event wagering, daily fantasy sports contests, or all of those state-regulated activities. The department described the figure as a record-breaking year.
People who self-exclude can select a one-year, five-year or 10-year ban. Information about financial counseling and the self-exclusion process is available at gaming.az.gov/exclude, where participants can access the client signup process. Additional information about the Division of Problem Gambling and its services is available at problemgambling.az.gov.
Source:
“Arizona Division of Problem Gambling Expands Access to Financial Counseling for Problem Gambling”, gaming.az.gov. Aug 5, 2026
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