Helpline Updates

No Confusion Here—Washington State Problem Gambling Helpline Remains Unchanged

On September 29, the New Jersey Supreme Court denied the National Council on Problem Gambling’s request for an emergency stay, ending NCPG’s three-year management of 1-800-GAMBLER as the National Problem Gambling Helpline. Because the number is owned by the Council on Compulsive Gambling of New Jersey (CCGNJ), they will now determine its future use and any conditions around access. In its statement, NCPG noted it is “deeply disappointed by this decision and the impact it will have on access to problem gambling resources,” while reaffirming its commitment to supporting individuals and families nationwide.

This decision has raised several questions:

• Is 1-800-GAMBLER going away? No. The number still exists, but it is no longer managed by NCPG. Control has reverted to the Council on Compulsive Gambling of New Jersey (CCGNJ) which owns the number.
• Does NCPG have a number? Yes. NCPG has returned to its long-standing helpline, 1-800-522-4700, which has been active for nearly 30 years. Chat and text services (text 800GAM or visit ncpgambling.org/chat) also remain available.
• What is changing in Washington? Nothing. For more than 30 years, the Evergreen Council on Problem Gambling has operated the Washington State Problem Gambling Helpline at 1-800-547-6133, providing direct, confidential support 24/7. This number connects callers to treatment referrals, resources, and general information, and it fully satisfies Washington’s legal requirement of a “play responsibly” message paired with a toll-free helpline.
• Can a Washington resident still call 1-800-GAMBLER? It is advisable for a Washington resident to call 1-800-547-6133 to receive the most accurate information and to be provided with access to local treatment and resource options.

While some gaming industry members in the state have opted to use 1-800-GAMBLER in their marketing, Washington Administrative Code requires specifically a “play responsibly” message paired with a toll-free helpline number. 1-800-547-6133 continues to fully satisfy this requirement and connects callers directly to Washington State Problem Gambling Support Services, including referral to treatment, connections to resources, and general information.

ECPG is working closely with the Washington State Gambling Commission and the Washington State Health Care Authority to ensure messaging is clear and consistent. In addition to Helpline services, ECPG offers a counselor directory and a wide range of educational resources at evergreencpg.org.

Whether by calling 1-800-547-6133, visiting evergreencpg.org for resources and our counselor directory, or connecting through text and chat, free and confidential help is always available.

ECPG will continue to monitor developments closely and provide updates as more information becomes available.