Credit Cards vs. Alternative Payment Methods in Sports Betting

You can't go anywhere without cash-ins in online gambling sites. Deposit opens access to all functions, including real money games. However, the prohibition imposed by the UK Gambling Commission (UKGC) on using credit cards for transactions on gambling platforms significantly impacts the betting industry. Players start placing bets on offshore bookies that accept CC payments. Therefore, let's explore the alternative payments that UK bookmakers currently accept.

Do all Betting Sites accept Credit Cards?

The gambling expert, Jack Reeve, made it clear: “Brits can’t use credit cards if the site has included the GamStop self-exclusion feature. However, each operator we recommend has an internal self-exclusion program in case of any problem…”. It follows from the above, that UK players can use credit cards on betting sites based outside the UK, and prevent any harm with specific self-exclusion.

The UKGC prohibits betting sites that accept credit cards due to responsible norms, as credit provides almost unlimited opportunities and brings problems. Of course, if you do not use it carefully. But as we mentioned, you can choose a bookie with a different license, and use responsible gambling tools. Another way out is to swap the payment method. You will also benefit from this, being able to control finances.

Alternative Payment Options at Bookmakers

We will consider five main ones. You can connect to any of these systems from home, so don't hesitate to try it.

Debit Cards

Almost everyone has one in their wallet. If not, you can get a card in 10 minutes at the nearest branch. The hardest part is choosing a bank. Visa and Mastercard systems are widespread worldwide, and banks allow you to get them. With them, third parties cannot obtain your data, as the protection is so reliable.

To cash in via debit card, go to the Cashier section of the betting website and enter the card’s number with a deposit amount. The money will appear on your game account instantly.

E-wallets

Want more security and anonymity? Then, link your cards to an e-wallet. In this case, you enter a unique wallet code instead of a number. That’s also a way to bypass credit card blocking. Perfect Money, PayPal, AdvCash, Payoneer, and EasyPay are the best systems. They also provide instant and commission-free transfers, which is no less pleasant.

Bank Transfers

Many people abandoned this payment method, now giving way to newer ones. But you can still use it, gaining reliability and stability. Among the disadvantages, we highlight the speed, which depends on the bank – some process payments up to 2 days, especially withdrawals.

You may need additional data for the transaction – name, account number, and confirmation code. But the main result is the money on the game account. So, if you can't use a card or wallet, feel free to use this one.

Cryptocurrencies

In recent years, cryptocurrencies have gained wide popularity, especially among GamStop players. Some operators even focus only on crypto holders, not providing other payment systems. Bitcoin, Litecoin, Ethereum, Dash, and Dogecoin are the most commonly used.

To make a deposit, you must register on a crypto exchange, buy currency, and transfer it to a wallet. Now, you can enter the unique crypto wallet’s address and complete the transaction. The most significant advantage of this payment method is complete anonymity and speed.

Prepaid Cards

It is a popular option in some countries, so consider it. Usually, you’ll find such cards in stores, but online as well. The idea is to pay money in advance, which will be stored on this card. When ready to use it, enter the card details and get cash for slots and tables.

Prepaid cards have their advantages:

• Anonymous use. You only need money to get it, no data.
• You also don't need a bank account or card.
• Money control. You won't lose too much, while a credit card gives this risk. This one has a certain amount, and you can use exactly that much.
• If you suddenly need cash, withdraw it from an ATM.

So yes, it's worth a try if the previous methods aren't for you.

Credit Cards vs Alternative Payments: Why Credit Cards Have a Higher Popularity?

A card attracts with its speed, reliability, and constant money availability. You can open it in minutes, simply meeting some conditions, such as having a job and providing personal data.

However, a credit card pushes you to lose track of money and go too far. This does not add to responsible gambling rules, so we suggest other options. If you do choose a card, keep in mind the limits. Determine the money amount you don't mind spending before the game. This will ensure safer and more enjoyable bets.