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What are timeouts? Why can't I play in tournaments because of them?
What are timeouts? Why can't I play in tournaments because of them?

Learn what timeouts are and how your timeout percentage could stop you from joining Daily tournaments on Chess.com.

Updated over a month ago

What are timeouts?

A ‘timeout’ happens when you lose a Daily game on time. While losing on time in a blitz or rapid game is pretty common due to the short time limit, losing on time in a daily game should be a rare occurrence. In order to timeout in a Daily game you must go days, or sometimes over a week, without making a move.

How can I see my timeout percentage?

You can check your timeout percentage by visiting your profile. Just go to the 'Stats' section on the right sidebar, click on 'Daily,' and view the dropdown list.

Timeouts on Chess.com

Why do tournaments have a timeout limit?

The default setting for tournaments prevents members who have timed out in more than 10% of their Daily games over the last 90 days from joining. Tournament directors don’t like having players who are likely to abandon games in their tournaments, so you will see that many tournaments on Chess.com have this restriction.

How can I lower my timeout percentage?

If you have a timeout percentage that is too high and want to lower it, you only have to complete more Daily games without timing out. Over time, this will bring your average down. Alternatively, since the percentage is only measured over the past 90 days, if you wait long enough the percentage will go away on its own.

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