Are Sweepstakes Casinos Legal in the U.S.? State-by-State Guide (2025)

Sweepstakes casinos have emerged as a popular alternative to traditional online gambling, offering players the chance to enjoy casino-style games and win real prizes without wagering real money. But are they legal in your state? This guide provides an up-to-date overview of sweepstakes casino legality across the United States.

What Are Sweepstakes Casinos?

Sweepstakes casinos operate using a dual-currency system:

  • Gold Coins (GC): Used for entertainment purposes; cannot be redeemed for cash.
  • Sweeps Coins (SC): Acquired through promotions or purchases with GC; can be used to play games and redeemed for real prizes.

This model allows sweepstakes casinos to comply with U.S. laws by avoiding the traditional gambling framework.

State-by-State Legality of Sweepstakes Casinos

As of May 2025, sweepstakes casinos are legal in most U.S. states. However, some states have specific restrictions or prohibitions.

🟢 States Where Sweepstakes Casinos Are Legal

Sweepstakes casinos are generally legal in the following states:

Alabama, Alaska, Arizona, Arkansas, California, Colorado, Connecticut, Delaware, Florida, Georgia, Hawaii, Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Kansas, Kentucky, Louisiana, Maine, Maryland, Massachusetts, Minnesota, Mississippi, Missouri, Nebraska, New Hampshire, New Jersey, New Mexico, New York, North Carolina, North Dakota, Ohio, Oklahoma, Oregon, Pennsylvania, Rhode Island, South Carolina, South Dakota, Tennessee, Texas, Utah, Vermont, Virginia, West Virginia, Wisconsin, Wyoming.

Note: While sweepstakes casinos are legal in these states, always check individual platform terms and conditions, as availability may vary.

🔴 States with Restrictions or Prohibitions

The following states have restrictions or have prohibited sweepstakes casinos:

  • Idaho: Sweepstakes casinos are not permitted.
  • Michigan: Some platforms may restrict access due to state regulations.
  • Nevada: Traditional gambling laws apply; sweepstakes casinos are generally not allowed.
  • Washington: Sweepstakes casinos are prohibited.

Note: Legislation can change; it's essential to stay informed about your state's current laws.

How Are Sweepstakes Casinos Legal?

Sweepstakes casinos avoid traditional gambling classifications by:

  • No Purchase Necessary: Players can acquire SC through free methods, such as mail-in offers or daily bonuses.
  • Alternative Entry Methods: Provide ways to participate without spending money, aligning with sweepstakes laws.
  • Virtual Currencies: Use of GC and SC separates them from real-money gambling platforms.

This structure allows them to operate legally in many jurisdictions where online gambling is restricted.

Monthly Updates on Legal Changes

State laws regarding sweepstakes casinos can evolve. We commit to updating this guide monthly to reflect any legal changes, ensuring you have the most current information.

Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Always consult with a legal professional regarding your state's gambling laws.

Last Updated: May 2025