The UK Gambling Commission has formally announced a phased rollout of Financial Risk Assessments (FRAs) targeting customers with elevated gambling expenditure. The initiative launches with the largest market operators, focusing on players whose net deposits breach specific daily limits.
Assessment Thresholds and Pilot Data
During the first stage, credit checks activate when net deposits exceed £5,000 within a rolling 24-hour window. For younger players and high-risk demographics, the threshold is set at £2,500. The regulator estimates that only 0.5% of UK accounts currently meet this criteria. Industry consultation and implementation groups are scheduled to finalize the stage one timetable this summer. Findings from a pilot program running from August 2025 to early this year revealed that 97% of high-spenders could be evaluated via CRA data, surpassing the 80% projection from the 2023 white paper. A second phase introduced in February 2025 lowered the net deposit trigger to £150.Long-term Implementation and Rationale
Full implementation will lower the triggers to £1,000 per 24 hours or £3,000 per 90 days for players aged 25 and older. Those under 25 will face limits of £750 in 24 hours or £2,000 in 90 days. The regulator highlighted that high spenders are significantly more prone to financial hardship, with higher rates of debt management plans and credit defaults. A grace period ensures no enforcement action occurs during the initial rollout.The original proposal in the 2023 white paper suggested a £2,000 loss threshold over 90 days. The new system aims to keep checks frictionless without impacting credit scores.