Check the category in the operator’s terms
UKGC guidance describes categories for how customer funds are handled if a gambling business becomes insolvent. Depending on the arrangements, funds may be described as not protected, medium protection or high protection. The detailed wording matters: keeping customer funds in a separate account is not automatically the same as legally protecting them from the operator’s insolvency.
The Commission says remote operators that hold customer funds must disclose the applicable category in their terms and at the point of deposit. The customer-facing guide also notes that a business may hold funds in an overseas bank account. Do not assume that a familiar payment method, a licence logo or a UK bank transfer means every balance is protected in the same way.
| What to look for | Why it matters |
|---|---|
| Exact protection wording | Labels can differ in the legal treatment of funds |
| Which balances are covered | Deposits, winnings and qualifying bonus funds may be treated as customer funds |
| Open bets | Stakes in unsettled bets are treated differently |
| Insolvency explanation | The terms should explain what happens if the business fails |
This page does not rate an operator or give insolvency advice. Save the terms that apply to your account and ask the operator to clarify unclear wording. See the payment guide and complaints route.