Stop-loss and stop-win

Rules that end a session after a set loss or a set win.

Last updated October 16, 2026

What it means: A stop-loss ends a session after a set loss; a stop-win ends it after a set win. Neither changes the expected value of any hand, because each hand's EV does not depend on earlier results.
How it is calculated: Set the rule before you start, while calm. A stop-loss helps if your play gets worse after big losses; quitting a good game only because you are winning gives up money.
Worked example: With a stop-loss of 3 buy-ins a player who loses 300bb leaves the table. If their play after big losses costs 5bb per 100 hands, the rule saves that on every hand they no longer play tilted.
Why it matters: Stop rules guard against your C-game. Used for the wrong reasons, such as locking in a win, they only cost you good hands.