How Sweepstakes Casinos Work
Learn about the unique dual-currency system that allows sweepstakes casinos to operate legally in most US states while offering the excitement of casino-style games.
What is a sweepstakes casino?
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A sweepstakes casino is an online gaming platform that operates using a dual-currency system to comply with US gambling laws. Unlike traditional online casinos that require direct money wagers, sweepstakes casinos use virtual currencies (Gold Coins and Sweeps Coins) that allow them to operate legally in most US states where traditional online gambling is restricted.
How does the dual-currency system work?
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Sweepstakes casinos use two types of virtual currency:
Gold Coins: These are purchased directly and used for entertainment purposes only. They have no real-world value and cannot be redeemed for cash.
Sweeps Coins: These are given as a free bonus with Gold Coin purchases or through free methods like mail-in requests. Sweeps Coins can be used to play games and any winnings can be redeemed for real cash prizes or gift cards.
Gold Coins: These are purchased directly and used for entertainment purposes only. They have no real-world value and cannot be redeemed for cash.
Sweeps Coins: These are given as a free bonus with Gold Coin purchases or through free methods like mail-in requests. Sweeps Coins can be used to play games and any winnings can be redeemed for real cash prizes or gift cards.
Are sweepstakes casinos legal?
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Yes, sweepstakes casinos are legal in most US states because they operate under sweepstakes law rather than gambling law. By offering free ways to obtain Sweeps Coins (such as through mail-in requests) and not requiring purchases to play, they comply with federal sweepstakes regulations. However, they are typically not available in Washington, Idaho, Nevada, and sometimes Michigan due to specific state regulations.
How do I get free Sweeps Coins?
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There are several ways to get free Sweeps Coins:
1. Sign-up bonuses – Most sweepstakes casinos offer free Sweeps Coins when you register
2. Daily login bonuses – Log in daily to claim free coins
3. Social media contests – Follow casinos on social media for giveaways
4. Mail-in requests – Send a self-addressed stamped envelope to the casino’s address
5. As bonuses with Gold Coin purchases – When buying Gold Coins, you typically receive Sweeps Coins as a free bonus
1. Sign-up bonuses – Most sweepstakes casinos offer free Sweeps Coins when you register
2. Daily login bonuses – Log in daily to claim free coins
3. Social media contests – Follow casinos on social media for giveaways
4. Mail-in requests – Send a self-addressed stamped envelope to the casino’s address
5. As bonuses with Gold Coin purchases – When buying Gold Coins, you typically receive Sweeps Coins as a free bonus
How do I redeem my winnings?
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When you’ve accumulated enough Sweeps Coins through gameplay (typically a minimum of 50-100 SC), you can request a redemption. The process usually works like this:
1. Go to the cashier/redemption section of the sweepstakes casino
2. Select your preferred redemption method (bank transfer, gift card, etc.)
3. Enter the amount of Sweeps Coins you wish to redeem
4. Complete any verification requirements
5. Wait for processing (typically 3-5 business days)
Remember that only Sweeps Coins can be redeemed for real prizes; Gold Coins have no redemption value.
1. Go to the cashier/redemption section of the sweepstakes casino
2. Select your preferred redemption method (bank transfer, gift card, etc.)
3. Enter the amount of Sweeps Coins you wish to redeem
4. Complete any verification requirements
5. Wait for processing (typically 3-5 business days)
Remember that only Sweeps Coins can be redeemed for real prizes; Gold Coins have no redemption value.
What games can I play at sweepstakes casinos?
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Sweepstakes casinos offer many of the same games you’d find at traditional online casinos:
• Slots – Including progressive jackpots and themed games
• Table games – Like blackjack, roulette, and baccarat
• Poker – Both video poker and live poker rooms at some sites
• Game shows – Interactive game show formats
• Scratch cards – Digital instant-win games
The quality and variety depend on the specific sweepstakes casino, with larger platforms offering 300+ games from established game developers.
• Slots – Including progressive jackpots and themed games
• Table games – Like blackjack, roulette, and baccarat
• Poker – Both video poker and live poker rooms at some sites
• Game shows – Interactive game show formats
• Scratch cards – Digital instant-win games
The quality and variety depend on the specific sweepstakes casino, with larger platforms offering 300+ games from established game developers.
