Why Do Online Casinos Need Proof of Income?
If you’ve ever joined an online casino licensed in the UK, you may have been asked to send documents showing your income. This might seem unusual at first, especially if you’re new to online gambling. But this step is a legal requirement in the UK and plays a part in helping protect both players and the wider public.
In this blog, you’ll learn what proof of income means, why a casino may ask for it, and how your documents are handled. You don’t need any previous experience with betting or casino games—this guide is written for beginners.
We’ll break everything down clearly, using simple language to explain how things work and why they matter. Whether you’re just curious, or are preparing to send documents yourself, you’ll find straightforward, factual information below.
Online Casino Asking For Proof of Income: Why?
Online casinos in the UK must follow strict rules set by the Gambling Commission. These rules are in place to make sure gambling is safe, legal and fair. One of these rules requires casinos to understand where your money is coming from. This process is called a “source of funds check” or “proof of income check”.
You might be asked for this if your account activity changes—for example, if you deposit a higher amount than before, or if your total spending reaches a certain level. Each gambling site sets its own limits, so you may find the checks happen at different points, depending on where you play.
This isn’t about judging how you spend your money. It’s about confirming that your spending matches your financial situation. For example, if someone deposits £3,000 in a short time, the casino may ask how this money was earned. This can help spot when someone may be gambling beyond their means, and it can also help reduce the risk of any illegal activity, such as using gambling to move stolen money through the system.
Online gambling is classed as a “high-risk” sector when it comes to money laundering, which is why these checks are legally required. By reviewing documents that show where your money comes from, licensed operators can meet their responsibilities under anti-money laundering laws and support safer gambling practices.
What Documents Can Be Sent To Provide Proof of Funds?
If a casino asks you to confirm your income or the source of your deposit, there are several types of documents they may accept. These documents help the casino see that the money used to gamble was legally earned and matches your stated financial situation.
You might be asked for:
- Recent payslips: These show what you earn from your job. Most casinos will ask to see the last 1 to 3 months.
- Bank statements: These should show regular income or savings. You can cover parts that aren’t relevant, but your name, address, and account number need to be visible.
- Tax documents (P60 or P45): These are used in the UK to summarise your income and tax from employment. A P60 shows total income for a full tax year, while a P45 is given when you leave a job.
- Self-employment records: If you work for yourself, you may need to send a recent tax return (SA302) or a signed letter from your accountant that explains your income.
- Other documents: If your money came from selling a house, inheritance, or an investment, you may be asked to provide a solicitor’s letter, official contract, or another legal document.
It’s important that the documents are recent, usually dated within the past 3 to 6 months. Each casino sets its own criteria, so checking their support section can help clarify what they accept.
Is It Safe To Send a Bank Statement To An Online Casino?
It’s completely understandable to feel cautious about sharing personal banking information. However, UK-licensed casinos must follow the UK’s data protection laws, including the General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR).
This means your documents are stored securely, and only trained members of staff can access them. Files are uploaded through encrypted platforms, which are designed to protect your data while it’s being sent.
Most casinos only need the parts of your statement that show your name, address, and income. You’re allowed to block out other unrelated details, such as payments to other companies or personal expenses, as long as the required information remains visible.
You can also check the casino’s privacy policy. This should clearly explain how your information is used, how long it is kept, and how it is protected.
How Long Does a Source of Funds Check Take?
The time it takes to review documents varies depending on how busy the casino is and whether the information you’ve sent is clear. In some cases, the check may be done within a few hours. In others, it might take a few days—especially if documents are missing or need to be checked manually by a verification team.
Automated systems may be used for some checks, but more complex cases will usually be handled by staff. Delays are more likely to happen during weekends or bank holidays.
If you’re waiting longer than expected, most casinos offer a live chat or email support option. They should be able to tell you what stage your check is at and whether anything else is needed.
During this time, you might not be able to withdraw funds or increase your deposit limits. Once the check is complete, your account should return to normal.
Play Casino Games Online at Mr Luck
Mr Luck is fully licensed by the UK Gambling Commission and offers casino games and a sportsbook for those interested in betting on sports, or playing online. Slots, classic table games and many sports bets are all available.
If you’d like to try something new or explore our selection, joining or logging in at Mr Luck gives you full access to the site.
As always, please set spending limits that suit your budget and only play with funds you feel comfortable using. At Mr Luck, we are committed to providing a safe environment for everyone who chooses to play. Please gamble responsibly.
*All values (Bet Levels, Maximum Wins etc.) mentioned in relation to these games are subject to change at any time. Game features mentioned may not be available in some jurisdictions.
**The information provided in this blog is intended for educational purposes and should not be construed as betting advice or a guarantee of success. Always gamble responsibly.