Why Are Online Casino Payments Delayed?
Getting winnings out of an online casino can take time. While deposits are usually instant, withdrawing typically takes longer. Several factors can delay payments, but the most common is account verification. I’ll explore why you may experience withdrawal delays and how to reduce waiting times.
Common reasons for delayed payouts and fixes
Canadian casino sites are rigorous in ensuring all your information is correct before processing your withdrawals. Although this can cause delays, there are other factors that can impact processing. Here are the most common reasons for withdrawal delays and ways to prevent or resolve them:
Verification documentation
As noted above, this is the most common cause of delays. Some players don’t understand the importance of the KYC process, while others may not even realize it's required. This does take time so delays are to be expected.
✅ Solution: I always recommend submitting all the documents as soon as you register at a new Canadian online casino. If you are unsure where to upload it or what’s required, the customer support team will advise you.
Duplicate accounts
Players sometimes attempt to open a new account with a casino they have already registered with. It may not be flagged immediately and the player may have claimed another welcome bonus, strictly prohibited in casino terms and conditions. All withdrawals will be cancelled and the account closed.
✅ Solution: Make sure to check whether or not you already have an account with the casino before depositing any funds.
Wrong account details
Among the many potential account verification issues, missing or incorrect payment or personal information can cause hiccups and delay your payouts until resolved.
✅ Solution: Always double-check the information you provided. For updates, you can either do it manually or contact customer support, as they can update your details.
Technical glitches
Sometimes, there may simply have been an error during the process. This is a very rare occurrence, but it may happen.
✅ Solution: Contact support to enquire about the problem and get it resolved.
Maxed-out withdrawal limits
If you have gone over the daily, weekly, or monthly casino withdrawal limits, you will find your cashout delayed till your limits enter the new period.
✅ Solution: Always verify the different withdrawal limits and plan your withdrawals accordingly.
Different payment methods
I will use an example for this one to simplify. Imagine you deposited $20 with Interac, but didn’t win, and then deposited another $20 with Visa. After playing, you have a $200 balance you want to withdraw.
If you try to withdraw the whole $200 back to Visa, the withdrawal will either be delayed or sent back to your balance. You must withdraw $20 from the original payment method, Interac, before withdrawing the rest to your Visa.
✅ Solution: Pick a payment method that’s available for both deposits and withdrawals and stick to it. If you’re unsure whether or not the payment option is available for withdrawals, check with customer support.
Bonus abuse
When you receive a bonus from a casino, there are terms associated. If the casino suspects a breach of terms, they will investigate and put a hold on your cashout. Some forms of bonus abuse include playing with a max wager higher than allowed, reaching a bonus round on bonus funds, trying to cheat the system, and more.
✅ Solution: Always check the terms and follow them to the letter to avoid playing for hours and having your winnings cancelled.
VPN usage
Although many of us use VPNs frequently, online casinos are not fans and some will flag it. If you have accessed the casino from a country that’s not allowed, it's a breach of terms and your withdrawal will be put on hold until resolved.
✅ Solution: Turn off your VPN before accessing a casino’s website and check the casino’s T&C, specifically under restricted countries to ensure Canada is not listed.
Pending wagering
If you have yet to complete your wagering requirement for a casino bonus offer and there are still bonus funds on your account, you must complete it before any withdrawal requests get sent.
✅ Solution: Double-check your bonus status before withdrawing to avoid complications.
Underage gambling
While it is usually challenging for underage gamblers to register an account, some players find the ways and means. If the casino suspects underage gambling, it will delay the payment and request further evidence to prove otherwise.
✅ Solution: This is a straightforward one - don’t gamble if you’re underage. If you are of legal age, make sure to provide all the necessary documents to confirm this.
The casino’s responsibility to ensure timely payouts
First, the gambling site must have a well-laid-out set of T&Cs and a section devoted to payouts, with a clear explanation of the payout process.
Second, the casino must comply with its terms so that you receive your payout as soon as possible and ensure they have sufficient funds to pay their players.
Third, you must have access to an efficient customer support team that will adequately support you with delayed payments.
Legal recourses and escalation
If a casino refuses to payout despite your compliance with all the terms and processes, it is within your rights to escalate the matter. Just make sure to document everything for proof. Go through customer support first. If that doesn’t resolve the issue, contact the regulatory body. If all else fails, your last resort is a court case. Communication and persistence are key; don’t wait for the casino to contact you and continue to query for a speedy resolution.
Fact-checked by Julia Attard
Senior Content Team Lead