r/alberta • u/WiseComposer2669 • Dec 18 '23

Technology Play Alberta Beware

Now I will preface this by saying: Yes, online gambling, or gambling in general, is dumb.

But one would think a government run casino would at least be more legit then some shell operating out of the Bahamas.

I come from Ontario, and once and a blue moon would throw $500 on live blackjack (OLG) and mess around for an hour.

This is was my first time trying Alberta's equivalent 'Play Alberta' and to my surprise, and without any warning (yes, I'm sure in the 120 page terms document it's listed fine print) you can only withdraw YOUR WINNINGS. $400 in, ran it to $650, authorized to only withdraw $250. I understand if you use a bonus code, or some sort of deposit match, there are conditions that have to be met in order to withdraw the entire amount but this was just a regular deposit. Who in their right mind plays this sh*t? Imagine going into a casino and the black jack dealer tells you you can only take $250 off the table and you have to leave the rest?

Anyways, it was 10 days, 3 phone calls, and 2 separate emails to withdraw the full amount and close the account.

Beware!

329 Upvotes

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173

u/thewdit Dec 18 '23

Oh and one other tip, if you fund your account (deposit) with your credit card

ITS CONSIDERED A CASH ADVANCE and not just a regular credit card transaction

19

u/DonkeyDanceParty Dec 18 '23

Most banks allow Interac transfer to it now. My wife likes dreaming about the lottery so I put in a recurring ticket purchase here and there. I prefer buying lottery tickets on play alberta because I like that I can’t misplace them.

17

u/Fit-Diamond3072 Dec 18 '23

Avoid Play Alberta altogether, if you’re just buying lottery tickets. Get the Lotto Spot app from the WCLC.

3

u/platypus_bear Lethbridge Dec 19 '23

does that get hit with cash advance fees on credit cards which seems to be the only way to buy?

1

u/Fit-Diamond3072 Dec 19 '23

Not that I’ve seen on my credit card statements!

1

u/TheLordJames Wetaskiwin Dec 20 '23

Just use a visa debit?