In recent years, sweepstakes casinos have emerged as a new way to experience the excitement of online casinos. By combining the appeal of free games with the potential to win real money prizes, these casinos have rapidly grown in popularity throughout the United States and beyond.

In this article, we'll introduce you to the phenomenon taking the casino world by storm. We'll explain how sweepstakes casinos work, list the best sweepstakes casinos on the market, and cover the steps you'll need to take to get started today.

  • Full-featured multiplayer fish game
  • Refer-a-Friend program
  • Amazing casino games

360,000 GC + 1000 FC

Promo Сode:
NONE NEEDED

WOW Vegas

Rated 4.3 stars out of 5
4.3
  • Over 750 Casino Games
  • Daily Log-In Bonuses
  • Stellar Website Design

8,500 Wow Coins & 4.5 Sweep Coins

Promo Сode:
NONE NEEDED

McLuck

Rated 4.4 stars out of 5
4.4
  • Exclusive Jackpots
  • Loyalty Club
  • Hundreds of Games

2.5 FREE Sweepstakes Coins

Promo Сode:
NONE NEEDED

What Are Sweepstakes Casinos?

A sweepstakes casino is an online gaming platform where players can access casino-style games like slots, table games, and poker. It's generally legal in areas where regular online gambling is banned or tightly controlled.

Unlike conventional online casinos that operate with real money, sweepstakes casinos utilize a unique model based on sweepstakes laws and regulations to provide entertainment and opportunities to win real money prizes.

What is the Difference Between Sweepstakes Casinos and Social Casinos?

Although "Sweepstakes Casino" and "Social Casino" carry separate meanings, they are commonly used synonymously. Despite technical disparities, numerous casinos identify themselves as both social and sweepstakes casinos.

Here's a simplified breakdown:

Sweepstakes Casinos:

  • Provide opportunities to win real money prizes or rewards.
  • Utilize a dual-currency system: Gold Coins for entertainment and Sweeps Coins for prize eligibility.
  • Operate within sweepstakes laws to ensure legal compliance.

Social Casinos:

  • Designed for entertainment without real money involvement.
  • Players receive virtual currencies or "coins" for gameplay purposes only, with no real-money conversion.
  • Typically unregulated due to their non-gambling nature.

Can You Win Real Money on Sweepstakes Casinos?

Winning real money on sweepstakes casinos is possible in the sense that players have the chance to redeem Sweeps Coins for cash prizes. However, the potential to win real money on sweepstakes casinos largely depends on the casino's setup. 

Here's what you need to know:

  • Sweeps Coins (SC): Sweepstakes casinos typically offer a virtual currency called Sweeps Coins (SC). Unlike standard virtual currencies, Sweeps Coins have actual monetary value and can be used to enter sweepstakes contests for chances to win real cash prizes.
  • Redeemable Prizes: Players can accumulate Sweeps Coins through gameplay, promotions, bonuses, or by purchasing Gold Coins packages. These Sweeps Coins can then be redeemed for real money prizes or other rewards.
  • Legal Compliance: Sweepstakes casinos adhere to legal requirements in the jurisdictions where they operate, ensuring that their sweepstakes contests comply with applicable laws and regulations. 

List of The Best U.S. Sweepstakes Casinos

There are many high-quality sweepstakes casino sites available in the United States today. The best options, according to us, are listed in the table below.

Sweepstakes Casino🎰Welcome Offer🎀Eligible States & Locations🌎Best Features & Qualities✅
McLuck Casino7500 Gold Coins + 2.5 Free Sweepstakes Coins44 of 50 U.S. States (except AL, GA, ID, KY, NV, & WA)

-Massive Jackpots

-Social Live Casino Section

Fortune Coins Casino360,000 Gold Coins + 1,000 Fortune Coins48 of 50 U.S. States (all but ID & WA) and All of Canada (except Ontario & Quebec)

-Elite Customer Rewards Program

-Multiplayer Fish Games Offered

WOW Vegas Casino8500 Wow Coins + 4.5 Sweepstakes Coins46 of 50 U.S. States (all but ID, MI, NV, & WA)

-Extensive Slots Selection

-Substantial Welcome Bonus

Pulsz Casino5,000 Gold Coins + 2.3 Sweepstakes Coins47 of 50 U.S. States (all but ID, NV, & WA)

-Unmatched Selection of Slots

-Fantastic Customer Service

LuckyLand Slots7,777 Gold Coins + 10 Free Sweeps Coins48 of 50 U.S. States (all but ID & WA) and All of Canada (except Ontario & Quebec)

-Generous Welcome Package

-Wide Variety of Instant Win Games

High 5 Casino600 Diamonds, 250 Game Coins + 5 Sweeps Coins47 of 50 U.S. States (all except ID, NV, & WA)

-Impressive slots selection

-Top-tier software providers

Chumba Casino2 Million Gold Coins + 2 Free Sweeps Coins48 of 50 U.S. States (all but ID & WA) and All of Canada (except Quebec)

-Offers Slingo Games

-User-Friendly Website

BetRivers.net250 Free Virtual CreditsAll 50 U.S. States & Ontario, Canada

-Great Selection of Table Games

-Sports Zone Access 

Our Top-Rated Sweepstakes Casinos - A Closer Look

In our opinion, online sweepstakes casinos are expected to create engaging and fun gaming environments with various promotions, while maintaining security and fairness. Based on these standards, here are the best sweepstakes casinos available to players in the United States:

Fortune Coins Casino

Fortune Coins is one of the best sweepstakes casino sites in terms of the bonus opportunities and special rewards offered to players. Users will be able to earn Gold Coins and Fortune Coins (i.e., Sweeps Coins) by claiming daily login bonuses, referring friends to the platform, sending a mail-in request through the postal service, and joining the Fortune Coins VIP Program.

In addition, Fortune Coins users are able to enjoy more than half a dozen Fish Games, which have gained popularity in recent years for their fast-paced nature, interactive gameplay, and stunning graphics. Overall, Fortune Coins Casino is an excellent option for eligible players all over the United States and Canada.

Pros
  • Unique Fish Games
  • Generous Welcome Offer
  • Chance to Win Real Money Prizes:
Cons
  • Limited Customer Support Options
  • No Live Dealer Games

 

McLuck Casino

At McLuck Casino players can enjoy a wide array of slots, social live casino games, and unique hold and win titles. What distinguishes McLuck is its Live Casino section and its strategic collaboration with numerous software developers like Pragmatic Play, Playson, and NetEnt, among others. This partnership results in a vast game library featuring various slot categories.

Additionally, McLuck offers generous bonuses, rewards, and promotions, providing players with ample opportunities to win exciting prizes.

Pros
  • Engaging Social Live Casino
  • Unique Jackpots & Hold and Win Games
  • 500+ Vegas-Style Slots
Cons
  • No Table Games
  • Limited Banking Options

McLuck

Rated 4.4 stars out of 5
4.4
  • Exclusive Jackpots
  • Loyalty Club
  • Hundreds of Games

2.5 FREE Sweepstakes Coins

Promo Сode:
NONE NEEDED

 

WOW Vegas Casino

WOW Vegas Casino offers a thrilling sweepstakes casino experience with a diverse selection of over 700 games from leading software providers. In addition to its extensive game library, this social casino offers an appealing welcome bonus to attract new players.

At WOW Vegas Casino, players can indulge in Wowzer Jackpot Games with the opportunity to win a great share of Sweepstakes Coins, available round the clock. These jackpot games offer a perfect blend of anticipation and the chance to win real money prizes.

Pros
  • Substantial Welcome Bonus Package
  • Clean and User-Friendly Interface
  • Top-Tier Software Providers
Cons
  • Lack of Live Dealer Games
  • Few Table Games

WOW Vegas

Rated 4.3 stars out of 5
4.3
  • Over 750 Casino Games
  • Daily Log-In Bonuses
  • Stellar Website Design

8,500 Wow Coins & 4.5 Sweep Coins

Promo Сode:
NONE NEEDED

 

Pulsz Casino

With over 700 Vegas-style casino games offered, Pulsz Casino guarantees that players will never run out of new and exciting games to try, and the site is constantly adding new titles to its collection. While the number of table games available on the platform is somewhat limited, Pulsz provides online slots with a wide range of features, mechanics, and themes.

If you value quality customer service, then Pulsz Casino is the sweepstake casino site for you. The Pulsz Casino customer support team works 24 hours a day, seven days a week to make sure all of your questions are answered and all of your problems are resolved in a timely manner.

Pros
  • Excellent Bonuses and Promotions
  • Real Cash Prizes & Gift Cards
  • User-Friendly Mobile App
Cons
  • No Live Dealer Games
  • Limited Banking Options

 

High 5 Casino

High 5 Casino is a premier sweepstakes casino, rewarded for its unwavering commitment to delivering top-tier entertainment experiences. Central to its appeal is an innovative array of games, including a diverse selection of slots, poker, and other beloved casino classics.

High 5 Casino distinguishes itself from many other social casinos by featuring well-crafted live dealer games. For players in pursuit of big wins, it also offers a variety of jackpot games.

Pros
  • Live Dealer Games
  • Appealing Reward Section
  • Impressive Slots Selection
Cons
  • No Phone Support
  • Few Banking Options

 

Chumba Casino

There are many reasons why Chumba Casino may be a great fit for you. The platform offers quick prize redemptions, great customer support, and a variety of different casino games. For instance, players currently have access to several different slingo games, which offer a unique, engaging experience and plenty of special symbols and extra spin opportunities.

Chumba Casino's user-friendly website offers a seamless and intuitive gaming experience. Players can easily navigate between different categories of games and access account information, promotional offers, and the Chumba Casino Store.

Pros
  • Top-Industry Welcome Offer
  • Easy Sign-Up Process
  • Widely Available in the U.S. & Canada
Cons
  • No Live Dealer Games
  • Limited Table Games

 

LuckyLand Slots

Another high-quality option to consider is LuckyLand Slots. Not only does this sweepstakes casino site offer 7,777 Golden Coins and 10 Free Sweeps Coins as a sign-up bonus, but it also allows users to earn significant discounts and bonuses on all Gold Coin packages purchased through the LuckyLand Slots VIP Program.

The great selection of Instant Win games only adds to the platform's appeal, as users will have access to scratch cards, arcade-style games, and Instant Win slots that are enticing to those who prefer low entry fees, simple gameplay, and immediate results.

Pros
  • Generous Welcome Offer
  • Quality Collection of Slots
  • Excellent Loyalty Program
Cons
  • Few Table Games
  • No Live Dealer Games

Luckyland Slots

Rated 3 stars out of 5
3.0
  • Great Bonus Welcome Package
  • Generous Loyalty Program
  • Smooth payment transactions

FREE 7,777 Gold Coins & 10 FREE Sweeps Coins

Promo Сode:
NONE NEEDED

 

BetRivers.net

Lastly, BetRivers.net is better described as a social casino, rather than a sweepstakes casino, as it does not offer any real prizes on its site. However, it does have a great selection of online slots and constantly introduces new games, ensuring you'll have access to all the newest and hottest games on the market.

BetRivers.net also has plenty of table games (blackjack, roulette, poker, baccarat, etc.) and live dealer games to offer, and the BetRivers.net Sports Zone even gives players an opportunity to bet for fun on all their favorite players, sports, and leagues from around the world.

Pros
  • Daily Bonuses & Rewards
  • Safe and Secure
  • Extensive Collection of Table & Live Dealer Games
Cons
  • No Real Money Prizes
  • No Mobile App

How Do Sweepstakes Casinos Work?

Sweepstakes casinos combine elements from traditional casinos and sweepstakes contests to create the ultimate online gaming experience. They give players access to a wide range of slots, table games, live dealer games, and more without making a single deposit or purchase while also offering the opportunity to win real money prizes. 

Here's how it works and what defines sweepstakes casinos:

✅ Virtual Currency: Instead of real money, social casinos use virtual currency or credits. Upon signing up, players typically receive a starting amount of virtual currency. More can be earned by playing games or sometimes purchased.

✅ Gameplay: With virtual currency, players can enjoy a wide array of casino games often designed by top-tier software providers.

✅ Social Interaction: Social casinos emphasize social features, allowing players to connect with friends, exchange gifts, and even participate in multiplayer games or tournaments.

✅ Free-to-Play: Social casinos are generally free to access and play. Players can enjoy games without spending money upfront, though optional in-app purchases may be available for virtual currency or additional features.

✅ Opportunity to Win Real Money Prizes: At sweepstakes casinos, players can earn Sweepstakes Coins through gameplay, promotions, and bonuses, which can be redeemed for real cash prizes and rewards.

There are typically two types of virtual currency available to be used on sweepstakes casino sites:

Gold Coins:

Gold Coins, which may go by another name depending on the casino, are the primary currency used to play any of the games offered by a sweepstakes casino. 

  • They hold no monetary value and cannot be withdrawn or redeemed for any real prizes. However, Gold Coins give players an opportunity to try new games, practice their skills, and have fun.
  • Gold Coins can be acquired through various bonus opportunities offered by the casino, or they may be purchased using real-money funds.

Sweeps Coins:

Sweeps Coins, also referred to as Sweepstakes Coins, may also be used to play any of the casino games available. 

  • Unlike Gold Coins, Sweeps Coins can be redeemed for real prizes, including but not limited to cash, gift cards, and merchandise.
  • Sweepstakes Coins can typically be earned as a bonus when purchasing Gold Coins or collected through sign-up bonuses, daily login rewards, mail-in requests, social media contests, or weekly giveaways by the sweepstakes casino site.

How To Sign Up & Start Playing Sweeps Casino

How To Register and Claim Your Sweepstakes Casino Bonus

When you're ready to get started, just follow the detailed steps provided below!

1 Choose Your Sweepstakes Casino

The first step requires you to choose a sweepstakes casino that aligns well with your personal preferences. We highly recommend WOW Vegas Casino, Fortune Coins Casino, McLuck Casino, Pulsz Casino, LuckyLand Slots, and Chumba Casino. Visit your preferred sweepstakes casino's website, or download its mobile app (if available).

2 Register for an Account

Begin the sign-up process. Enter all requested personal information in the boxes provided (e.g., name, email address, and date of birth), choose your username and password, and agree to the site's Terms & Conditions to complete the registration process.

3 Verify Your Information

Complete the account verification process by following the on-screen instructions provided by your sweepstakes casino site. This may involve uploading a form of photo identification (driver's license, passport, etc.) and providing proof of residency in your state (e.g., a bank statement or phone bill).

4 Claim Your Welcome Offer

Once you have finished registering for an account and have verified your information, you will automatically receive your Gold Coins and Sweeps Coin offered through your casino's sign-up bonus.

5 Make a Purchase (Optional)

While no purchase is necessary, you will have the option to take advantage of your sweepstakes casino's exclusive first purchase offer to get a significant discount on a Gold Coin package.

6 Start Playing & Winning Prizes

You may now begin trying slots, table games, or any other casino games offered and playing for a chance to win real money prizes. Good luck!

Sweepstakes Casino No Deposit Bonuses & Other Rewards

Sweepstakes casinos entice players with bonuses and rewards, including no deposit bonuses. Here's a closer look at these incentives.

No Deposit Bonuses

No deposit bonuses are, more or less, a standard feature in sweepstakes casinos, offering players a chance to explore the casino without risking their own money. These bonuses typically provide new players with free virtual currency or sweeps coins upon signing up, allowing them to dive into the gaming right away.

Other Promotions and Rewards

  • Daily Rewards: To keep players engaged, sweepstakes casinos often offer daily rewards for logging in and playing games regularly. These rewards may include additional virtual currency, bonus sweeps coins, or other perks.
  • Referral Bonuses: Sweepstakes casinos encourage players to invite their friends to join the platform through referral programs. In return, both the referrer and the new player may receive bonuses or rewards, such as bonus virtual currency or sweeps coins, upon successful referrals.
  • VIP Programs: Players may be eligible to join VIP or loyalty programs offered by sweepstakes casinos. These programs typically reward players with exclusive bonuses, access to special events or games, and personalized customer support.
  • Special Promotions: Sweepstakes casinos frequently run special promotions and events, such as tournaments, challenges, or themed contests, with exclusive rewards for participants.
  • First Purchase Bonuses: Most sweepstakes casinos offer significant discounts or additional perks to users upon their first purchase of Sweeps Coins.

Sweepstakes Casino Games

Sweepstakes casinos offer a diverse selection of games, often designed by highly regarded software providers. Here's an overview of the types of games commonly found in sweepstakes casinos:

Slots

Slot machines are a cornerstone of sweepstakes casinos, offering a wide variety of themes, designs, and features. Players can enjoy classic three-reel slots, video slots with advanced graphics and animations, and progressive jackpot slots where the potential winnings can reach substantial amounts.

Table Games

Sweepstakes casinos also feature a range of traditional table games, including:

  • Poker: Various poker variants such as Texas Hold'em, Omaha, and Seven Card Stud are available. Players can participate in cash games, tournaments, or sit-and-go events.
  • Blackjack: Blackjack is a popular card game where players aim to beat the dealer's hand without exceeding a total of 21 points.
  • Roulette: Roulette offers players the chance to bet on different outcomes, such as specific numbers, colors, or ranges of numbers, as the roulette wheel spins.
  • Baccarat: Baccarat is a card game where players bet on the outcome of two hands: the player's hand and the banker's hand.

Video Poker

Video poker combines elements of both slots and poker, allowing players to make strategic decisions while enjoying fast-paced gameplay. Popular variants include Jacks or Better, Deuces Wild, and Joker Poker.

Instant Win Games

Sweepstakes casinos may also feature a variety of instant win games, such as scratch cards, keno, and virtual sports betting.

Live Dealer Games

Some sweepstakes casinos offer live dealer games, where players can interact with real dealers and other players in real-time. These games typically include live versions of blackjack, roulette, baccarat, and poker.

How to Redeem Sweeps Coins for Real Money Prizes

Sweepstakes casinos operate under a sweepstakes model, offering players the opportunity to earn or purchase virtual currency known as sweeps coins. These coins can then be redeemed for real money prizes or rewards, subject to the casino's terms and conditions.

Here's a simple guide on how to redeem prizes at sweepstakes casinos:

  1. Visit the Redemption Section: Log in to your account and navigate to the redemption section, usually found within your account settings or dashboard. This section displays available prizes and facilitates redemption requests.
  2. Choose a Redemption Method: Select your preferred payment method for receiving the prize. Options typically include bank transfer, PayPal, gift cards, or other forms of payment, depending on the casino's offerings.
  3. Submit Your Request: Once you've chosen the payment method, proceed to submit your redemption request. Follow any additional instructions provided by the casino, such as providing necessary account information or verifying your identity if required.
  4. Processing Time: The processing time for prize redemptions varies based on the chosen payment method and the casino's policies. Generally, players can expect to receive their prize within a few days after submitting the redemption request.
  5. Receive Your Prize: Upon approval of the redemption request by the casino, players will receive their prize according to the selected payment method. Prizes may be cashed out directly into the player's bank account, transferred to their PayPal account, or provided in the form of a gift card, depending on the chosen option.

Where Are Sweepstakes Casinos Legal?

Sweepstakes casinos do not involve real-money betting and instead use a unique sweepstakes model to reward players. As a result, these casinos are widely available across the United States and beyond. They are 100% legal in plenty of states where traditional online casinos are prohibited (e.g., California, Florida, and Texas).

Idaho, Nevada, Washington, and Quebec are a few of the only locations where sweepstakes casino sites are currently restricted throughout the United States and Canada. 

It is also important to note that players will need to be at least 18 years old or meet the specific minimum age requirement in their state or jurisdiction to be eligible to sign up and start playing.

Is Sweepstakes Considered Gambling?

Sweepstakes are not classified as gambling, as outlined by existing laws that provide a clear distinction between the two. 

The critical distinction lies in the fact that sweepstakes, which are by definition games of chance, don't require participants to risk their own money. In contrast, gambling activities necessitate participants to stake their personal funds. Thus, the nature of sweepstakes is fundamentally different, as they do not solicit consumers to wager their own money.

Advantages of Sweepstakes Casinos

There are many reasons why sweepstakes casinos are rapidly growing in popularity across the United States and beyond. A few of their significant advantages are discussed below.

✅ Little-To-No Risk Involved

One of the biggest advantages of sweepstakes casino sites is that you do not have to risk your hard-earned money. Sweepstakes casinos are free-to-play platforms, and no initial deposit or purchase of any kind is required to experience all of the website's incredible features and special opportunities.

✅ Variety of Free Games 

Sweepstakes casinos typically offer a wide selection of games, meaning you will have access to slots, table games, poker, scratch cards, jackpots, live dealer games, and much more. The sites provide casino games from some of the top providers in the industry, and you will have a chance to practice your skills, learn the rules, and test out the hottest games on the market.

✅ Real Money Prizes Offered

Most players find the potential to win real cash prizes to be the most appealing aspect of sweepstakes casinos. Once they have collected enough Sweeps Coins, users are usually able to redeem them for cash using any of the withdrawal options provided on the site. Digital gift cards, merchandise, and cryptocurrency are a few other prizes offered by various sweepstakes casinos in the United States.

✅ Widely Available

Lastly, unlike traditional online casinos, sweepstakes and social casinos are widely available across the United States and Canada. The casinos operate using a unique sweepstakes model, meaning players cannot directly deposit or withdrawal funds from their accounts. As a result, these casinos are available in many different states in jurisdictions where online betting is prohibited or heavily restricted.

Sweepstakes Casino Tips & Tricks

If you would like a little extra help to increase your chances of success, here are a few tips and tricks to implement:

  • Explore Different Games: Sweepstakes casino sites offer a wide range of casino games. Don't be afraid to explore new options to find games that fit with your style of gameplay and allow you to employ strategies that can increase your chances of success.
  • Manage Your Virtual Currency Wisely: Treat your Gold Coins and Sweeps Coins like real-money funds, and be sure to manage them properly. This includes limiting your bet size, not chasing losses, and making strategic decisions.
  • Seek Out Promotions & Bonus Opportunities: Look for opportunities to add to your bankroll through special events, tournaments, or promotional offers.
  • Engage With Other Players: Many sweepstakes casinos incorporate cheat features, message boards, or other similar features to create an immersive social experience for their players. Take advantage of these opportunities and chat with other players to share experiences, discuss strategies, and gather insights. 
  • Understand the Rules: Make sure you understand the specific rules of the sweepstakes in which you are participating. This includes knowing how many Sweeps Coins must be collected to make a prize redemption, entry requirements that must be met, and playthrough requirements that must be met on bonus Sweeps Coins earned through special deals or promotions.

Sweepstakes Casino FAQ

What Is a Sweepstakes Casino?

A sweepstakes casino is a free-to-play platform that allows users to access a wide range of casino games that can be played for a chance to win real prizes.

What Is the Difference Between Gold Coins and Sweeps Coins?

Gold Coins are used primarily for entertainment purposes, hold no monetary value, and cannot be used to earn any real rewards. Meanwhile, Sweeps Coins can be redeemed by players for cash, digital gift cards, and other prizes.

Do Sweepstakes Casinos Offer Real Prizes?

Yes, once a player has collected enough Sweepstakes Coins, they can be redeemed for real prizes, such as cash, gift cards, and merchandise.

What Are the Best Sweepstakes Casinos?

There are quite a few high-quality sweepstakes casinos available in the United States. However, Fortune Coins, LuckyLand Slots, Chumba Casino, and Pulsz Casino are a few of the best options to consider.

Are Sweepstakes Casinos Free To Play?

Yes, all sweepstakes casinos are free to play, meaning you will not have to make any purchases or payments in order to participate.

Are Sweepstakes Casinos Legal?

Yes, sweepstakes casinos are legal in many jurisdictions, including the United States. They operate under sweepstakes laws, which distinguish them from traditional gambling sites. By using a dual-currency system and offering free entry to sweepstakes contests, sweepstakes casinos comply with legal regulations.

How do Sweepstakes Casinos Work?

Sweepstakes casinos use a dual-currency system, comprising virtual currency (such as Gold Coins) for entertainment and sweeps coins for prize eligibility. Players can acquire sweeps coins through gameplay, promotions, or purchases, and use them to enter sweepstakes contests for a chance to win real money prizes.

Can I Win Real Money at a Sweepstakes Casino?

Players have the opportunity to win real money prizes at sweepstakes casinos. By participating in sweepstakes contests using sweeps coins, players can win cash prizes or other rewards, subject to the platform's terms and conditions.

How do I Redeem Prizes at a Sweepstakes Casino?

To redeem prizes at a sweepstakes casino, players typically need to visit the redemption section of their account page, choose a preferred payment method, submit a redemption request, and follow any additional instructions provided by the casino. Prizes may include cash rewards, gift cards, or other tangible items.