Playing with real money in an online casino has been one of the big challenges players face. But what if you didn’t need to spend a dime to play and win?
This is possible with sweepstakes casinos, in the US states where real money gaming is not allowed. Therefore, you get to play with sweep coins instead. There are countless options available in multiple US locations, and picking the right platform to play can feel like a gamble itself.
In this guide, you will discover the best sweepstakes casinos in the USA and learn how to win sweep coins. Let us share our expertise and tell you everything you need to know about sweepstakes casino sites.
Understanding Sweepstakes Casinos
The first thing you need to know is that sweepstakes casinos are different from real online casinos. They can only be played in strategic locations, and they don’t allow real money gaming. Let’s see more about that!
What Are Sweepstakes Casinos?
To fully appreciate what they entail, it’s important to know the fundamentals of sweepstakes casinos, including game dynamics and bonus promotions.
These platforms, which are frequently referred to as “social casinos” include slots and other well-known casino games that are typical of online casinos.
The main contrast, though, is that sweepstakes casinos use a free-to-play business model, meaning that real money wagering and direct cash payouts are not allowed. Players can play conventional games like slots, blackjack, video poker and roulette with virtual currency called “sweeps coins”.
Regular online casinos and sweepstakes casinos may be different, but they have a lot in common. They frequently provide comparable game titles and make use of the same software sources. Similar payment methods are also available for use while making purchases.
I know the excitement of playing classic casino games without worrying about losing real money. This is one of the enjoyable features of sweepstakes casinos. It is similar to enjoying all the thrills of a casino, such as playing blackjack and spinning slots, but with the added possibility of winning cash prizes through sweepstakes campaigns.
What Are Gold Coins and Sweepstakes Coins?
Gold Coins and Sweepstakes Coins are both virtual currencies used in sweepstakes online casinos. Generally, both types are offered to players, but what’s the difference between them?
- Gold Coins represent play money and are typically purchased directly by players, from the casino. They use Gold Coins to play casino games for entertainment or practice without the possibility of winning real money.
- Sweepstakes Coins are provided as a bonus when purchasing Gold Coins, but they cannot be bought separately. Sweepstakes Coins offer players the chance to participate in sweepstakes or contests hosted by the casino, where real cash prizes are awarded.
By offering both currencies, the casino provides players with a versatile and engaging gaming experience, catering to both recreational players and those seeking the thrill of winning cash prizes.
Are Sweepstakes Casinos Legal in the US?
The sweepstakes casino’s free gameplay allows them to operate in areas where real money gambling isn’t allowed by law, which includes most US states.
Except for Idaho, Nevada, and Washington, sweepstakes casinos are permitted in practically every US state, unlike standard real-money online casinos.
Check what states allow online casinos if you want to play with real money. If not, keep on reading!
It is worth noting that the owners of Chumba Casino, VGW Holdings, were sued in September 2022 in Kentucky for $11.75 million in a class action lawsuit alleging that they had broken sweepstakes laws. Tighter regulations caused VGW to stop operating in Michigan as a result. To maintain legal compliance, they promised to update their game rules and include elements that promote responsible gaming.
Top 5 Sweepstakes Casinos in the USA
It’s exciting to play with free coins in a sweep casino instead of real money. But there are specific casinos that allow this, and we advise you to pick among the best sweepstakes casinos USA.
Here is a summary table of our selection of best US sweeps casinos for 2024:
| Sweepstakes Casinos 2024 | Welcome Bonus | Best US Sweepstakes Casino for |
|---|---|---|
| WOW Vegas — 9.5/10 | 250,000 WOW Coins + 5 Free SC | Slots machines |
| Sweeptastic — 9.2/10 | 10,000 Lucky Coins | Social gaming experience |
| High5Casino — 8.7/10 | 250 GC + 5 SC + 600 Diamonds | No deposit bonus code |
| McLuck — 8.5/10 | 57,000 GC + 27.5 SC | Gold Coins welcome packages |
| LuckyBird — 8.1/10 | 5,000 GC + 1.41 SC + 3 treasure chests | Crypto-casino prizes |
Without further delay, here is more information on sweepstakes casinos in the United Sates you should try out in 2024!
WOW Vegas
If you are looking for Vegas-style slot games all for free, go for WOW Vegas sweepstakes casino. This platform is licensed and regulated by the Isle of Man Gambling Supervision Commission.
WOW Vegas has a secure platform for instant transactions with various payment methods such as Skrill, credit & debit cards, Apple Pay, and online banking. They have over 600 casino games to choose from, with a wide selection of slots.
| Sweepstakes Casino | WOW Vegas |
| Welcome Offer | 250,000 WoW Coins + 5 SC for free |
| Regulated by | Isle of Man Gambling Supervision Commission |
| Our rating | 9.5/10 |
→ This makes it the best us sweepstakes casino for slot machines.
Welcome Bonus
When you sign up at WOW Vegas Casino, you will receive a welcome bonus of 250,000 WOW Coins + 5 Free Sweepstake Coins. Just provide your name and address to validate your player account, and get 150,000 WOW Coins + 3 Bonus Sweepstakes Coins.
This offer is open to all 18+ residents of qualifying states and does not require a bonus code.
Player Testimonial
Jonathan Boland (United States) on TrustPilot:
My experience has been everything I’ve hoped for. I often get to enjoy a free bonus, plus the games’ choice is huge! WOW Vegas is the best online game site, I’ve been playing online slots for the last ten years.
Sweeptastic
Sweeptastic is a social casino that focuses on user-friendly experience and player satisfaction. This platform is owned by Heutson Gaming Inc, operating in Malta under registration number C76987.
Sweeptastic social casino allows payment methods through credit/debit cards and cryptocurrencies, with an instant processing time.
| Sweepstakes Casino | Sweeptastic |
| Welcome Offer | 10,000 Lucky Coins for free |
| Regulated by | Malta Gaming Authority |
| Our rating | 9.2/10 |
→ Sweeptastic is the best us sweepstakes casino for social gaming experience.
Welcome Bonus
The Sweeptastic welcome offer is a generous free bonus, easy to use. To get 10,000 Lucky Coins right away, just sign up—no purchase necessary. You will receive an additional bonus of 17,777 Lucky Coins and 2 free sweep coins when you complete your profile.
With this 2-step registration, Sweeptastic maintains simplicity, which makes it straightforward to claim your bonus in contrast to other social casinos.
Player Testimonial
August Hollander (United States) on TrustPilot:
Sweeptastic is an exciting and 5-star quality sweep casino. I really enjoy the gameplay and many games to choose from. The process of redeeming sweeps coins is intuitive, resulting in a reliable redemption. I am thrilled with all that the service has to offer.
High5Casino
High5Casino is a social casino that offers over 800 casino games from the industry’s best software providers. They are one of the longest-operating casinos with affiliate licenses with 5 gaming authorities.
High5Casino accepts PayPal, Skrill, and traditional cards to purchase game coins.
| Sweepstakes Casino | High5Casino |
| Welcome Offer | 250 Gold Coins + 5 SC + 600 Diamonds |
| Regulated by | – New Jersey Division of Gaming Enforcement – UK Gambling Commission – Malta Gaming authority. |
| Our rating | 8.7/10 |
→ High5 Casino’s platform is the best for no deposit bonus code.
Welcome Bonus
When you sign up and verify your personal information, you can get a generous casino bonus of 250 Gold Coins (GC), 5 Sweepstakes Coins (SC), and 600 Diamonds which will be automatically added to your player balance.
Player Testimonial
Lan Breezer (Suriname) on TrustPilot:
High 5 Casino protects and secures your payments. They have been in business for more than 20 years now. They follow US law and regulation. I have been a high5 player for 7 years now, and I am happy with the service they provide. Always quick response when you ask for help. High 5 casino has a great team!
McLuck
This is a trustworthy platform that offers slots, table games, and live casino games. McLuck is a new sweepstakes casino and well-established site from B2Spin Limited.
You will get 3.55 Sweepstakes Coins in your first 3 days of consistent login as a welcome bonus.
McLuck offers its players various payment methods promising fast payout at any time to make a GC purchase, such as Visa, Mastercard, Google Pay, or Apple Pay.
| Sweepstakes Casino | McLuck |
| Welcome Offer | 57,000 Gold Coins & 27.5 Sweepstake Coins |
| Regulated by | N/A |
| Our rating | 8.5/10 |
→ McLuck Casino is the best for Gold Coins welcome packages.
Welcome Bonus
McLuck is known as America’s hottest social casino, and it offers a new player bonus offer of 57,000 Gold Coins & 27.5 Sweepstake Coins.
If you log in every day, you stand a chance to receive a daily login bonus of 2500 Gold Coins and 0.3 Sweepstakes Coins. This free sign-up bonus enriches your gaming experience as a new player.
Player Testimonial
Jessie Harro (United States) on TrustPilot:
I love playing on Mcluck, I have had some awesome wins! I love their wide selection of games (including pragmatic) 😉 and their McLuck jackpot wheel is such a fun and exciting addition to your game play!
LuckyBird
LuckyBird is a new sweeps casino and crypto-based social casino available in the US. The platform doesn’t have a gaming board license, but they use site-wide SSL encryption for data security measures.
As a crypto-exclusive platform, you can only use cryptocurrencies like BTC, LTC, and ETH.
| Sweepstakes Casino | LuckyBird |
| Welcome Offer | 5,000 Gold Coins +1.41 Sweep Coins + 3 treasure chests |
| Regulated by | N/A |
| Our rating | 8.1/10 |
→ LuckyBird is the best online sweepstakes casino for crypto prizes.
Welcome Bonus
Players across the US receive a welcome free bonus from LuckyBird.io Sweepstake Casino that includes 3 treasure chests, a no-deposit bonus of 1.41 SC, and 5,000 GC.
Register and confirm your email to receive 1,000 GC, then finish tasks to earn an extra bonus. 200,000 GC, 20 SC, and 10 treasure chests require a $10 deposit.
Player Testimonial
David Perry (United States) on TrustPilot:
Luckybird social casino is a great place to play and recently have added more games to their platform. I have recommended it to many friends now and have full intentions to recommend it to many more. The support staff are very friendly. Plus, the payouts are through bitcoin, which makes them quick and hassle-free.
Spotlight on Sweepstakes Coins and Social Features
There is no real money betting involved in sweepstakes social casinos. I think you got that, right?
Rather, they make use of digital money such as “Gold Coins” or “Sweeps coins”. According to us, here are the best social features of a sweepstakes and social casino:
You get to play with sweeps coins in all your favorite casinos games
Like real money online casinos, these sweeps coin casinos offer players table games and slot machine games, which I had the chance to try during hours and to even make some profits out of it.
So yes, I had multiple occasions to redeem for cash prizes. I also had the chance to participate in social media competitions or send in postal offers to obtain virtual coins for free. I must say, I love this concept where a player sweeps coins for cash prizes.
Sweepstakes casino experience for everyone
Getting started with social casinos is accessible to everyone because sweepstakes casino work in a very intuitive way, making it perfect for beginners!
For starters, it’s easy to create an account, new players often receive free Sweepstakes Coins to get them started right away.
Enjoy the free-to-play concept benefits
In most of the sweeps cash casinos, you can directly start playing for free without having to buy SC, i.e., without having to deposit real money thanks to welcome bonuses.
By playing often, completing tasks, and buying coin packs—which often include extra sweepstakes gold coins— you can increase your coin balance.
Play the way you want
It is not required to purchase coin bundles to participate or win rewards. It is up to you to decide how you would like to get sweepstakes coins—by buying or by using the free options available.
Live the full online casino gaming experience
Like online casinos, sweepstakes casinos offer exhilarating experiences. You may experience the thrill of a real money casino with a large selection of games, amazing graphics, and interactive features.
Enjoy the social dimension of casino
They also have social features that let you chat with friends, trade virtual gifts, and engage in friendly competitions that are common in a social and sweepstakes casino.
This enhances the gaming experience by adding even more pleasure and interaction!
How to Choose Legit Sweepstakes Casinos?
That is a real question indeed! According to us, here are the key elements you must check to choose a safe sweepstakes casino.
Tip 1: Check for Personal Information and Payment Requests
Legit sweepstakes casinos won’t ask for cash or personal information like your Social Security number, your credit card or banking information.
These tactics are used by scammers to steal your money, identity, and other precious resources, greatly threatening your financial security and privacy. Steer clear of bogus activity!
Consequently, we recommend you to use a reputable sweepstakes casino that applies security measures.
Tip 2: Trusted Sponsors and Legitimate Sweepstakes
Legitimate sweepstakes casinos are legal, and always backed by a recognized company or brand. A fake one has no real sponsor or credibility.
To confirm the legitimacy and presence of the sponsoring organization, look for certification marks below the home page, or do some research online. You will then be able to determine the sponsor of the sweepstakes’ casino platform you are using.
This can help you reduce the chances of failing to a scam or fraud.
Tip 3: Caution Against Pressure Tactics and Unearned Prizes
You may receive a number of messages and emails pressuring you to enter a sweeps tournament or claiming that you have won a prize that you did not enter. Any legitimate sweepstakes casino will not use such aggressive communication methods without asking you to fill out the required details.
I have seen this kind of tactic many times and the best thing to do for you is to avoid these messages, i.e., to not reply. If you are ever in doubt, you can always contact your social casino’s customer support.
Tip 4: Communication Quality and Error-Free Content
Another way to spot out scam websites and emails is to check their grammar and spelling. They often contain mistakes. A legit sweepstakes casino platform will always prioritize error-free content.
I can always tell a legitimate sweepstakes site from a scam by paying attention to the quality of their promotional materials, emails, and websites. I look out for inconsistencies and errors in communication.
This has helped me to make informed decisions when choosing a social casino.
Tip 5: Thorough Research on URLs and Contact Information
It is advisable to thoroughly investigate a sweepstakes casino’s sponsor, website URLs, contact details, official rules and privacy policy before registering.
Reviewing the terms and conditions of the sweepstakes and confirming the legitimacy of the sponsor are the best ways to ensure transparency and security. Also look for support and contact information ahead.
Tip 6: Player Testimonial
Looking for other players’ testimonials before signing up to a casino is a good idea. As you know, bad comments tend to be more shared than positive ones.
If your casino has a bad reputation, you’ll know it for sure! Players’ experience returns of a platform are a great way of knowing its strengths and weaknesses:
- Does it offer interesting Gold Coins and Sweeps Coins bonuses?
- Is the customer support reactive and helpful?
- Are the cash prizes worth it?
- What does it make a popular sweepstakes casino?
- Which games providers are available?
- Is this sweeps casino really legit?
Before writing this guide, our team certainly made sure to check out what players have to say about their social casino experience. Here is what Faz Al from Irving, Texas, shared on Quora about choosing legit sweepstakes casinos:
Yes, there are many legitimate online sweepstakes and contests available. Numerous companies and organizations host online sweepstakes as a way to engage with their audience, promote their products or services, and offer prizes to lucky winners. However, it’s essential to exercise caution and ensure you participate in reputable sweepstakes to avoid scams or fraudulent activities. While there are numerous legitimate giveaways, it’s important to note that winning is not guaranteed, as each giveaway may have specific winners.
Sweepstakes Casinos vs. Traditional Online Casinos
For different reasons, traditional online casinos and sweepstakes are both very popular. But the big question is how should you choose where to play casino games.
That relies on several variables, all of which I will talk about. I will show you how these two types of casinos differ from each other and why sweepstakes sites are advantageous.
With all of this knowledge, you’ll be able to choose the one that’s best for you!
Legitimacy
Traditional online casinos may be illegal in some USA jurisdictions. Nevertheless, social casinos in the US use a legal loophole to get around this, implying that players can still enjoy winnings from games like jackpot slots without violating any regulations.
Prize range
A sweepstakes casino is ideal if you just want to play for fun and aren’t focused on winning cash. It’s more entertaining when you win cool and random stuff like gift cards, cash prizes or special items.
Real money and virtual tokens
You can play in a US sweepstakes casino without using actual money. All you have to bet with are digital tokens. Players who dislike losing money may find this comforting. Losing virtual tokens is easier to accept than losing real money, which can help control emotions.
Bonuses and Promos
Daily bonuses and loyalty rewards are common features offered by sweepstakes gaming companies. They may also give out tokens via social media or raffles. One of the main benefits of playing at a sweepstakes casino online is that you have free chances to win prizes.
Sweepstakes Online Casino
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Diverse game library | Less thrill on real money gaming experience |
| Legal in most US locations | Restrictions and limits on redeeming winnings |
| No need for real money or direct purchase | |
| Beginner-friendly |
Maximizing Your Experience at Sweepstakes Casinos
Online casino is all about luck and strategy, but since sweepstakes casinos do not require you to bet with real money, there is a little less emotion involved.
However, your winnings can be converted from digital coins to real money, so there is always something to play for.
Let me show you how to maximize your winnings at the best US sweepstakes casinos, to enhance your gaming experience.
Start with a Reputable Platform
While I have searched Quora and Reddit for people’s experiences with sweepstakes coins, most of them claim it is an illegal activity and some of them have fallen for scams. There are legitimate and licensed sweepstakes casinos out there.
Here is a little tip; look for positive reviews, secure payment methods, and a wide variety of games on the platform you are about to use. If you don’t have the time, go with the list of top sweepstakes casinos I reviewed above.
Leverage Bonus and Promos
One of the best features of sweepstakes casinos are the welcome bonuses and loyalty promotions.
At every opportunity, take advantage of free spins, bonus cash, and other rewards that can increase your chances of winning. Enjoy the gold coins and sweep coins and explore the different games at your disposal.
Try Some Betting Strategy
Using a betting strategy doesn’t guarantee you to win, but if you try it enough, you’ll get to understand the game and possibly get lucky.
There are many betting systems out there. Find one and stick with it. Some popular ones include:
For games like poker and blackjack, learning and practicing these strategies can improve your odds of winning.
As a player, I have tried a bunch of betting systems while playing sweepstakes casinos and I try to use it often.
Play Games you love
No one will probably tell you this, but choose sweepstakes casino games that you enjoy playing. A casino will always have your favorites, so find them and increase your chances of winning by focusing on them.
Go for slots, blackjack, video poker, roulette, baccarat, live dealers, table games, and any other type you like.
Manage Your Bankroll
It doesn’t matter whether you are playing with real money or not, you always have to set a budget limit. You should know by now that sweepstakes casinos use sweeps coins and gold coins that can be redeemed for real money.
But you need to treat it like you would treat an online casino that requires money to bet. Avoid overspending and keep your virtual losses to a minimum.
Play Games with High RTP (Return To Player)
RTP displays the average amount of money that a slot machine gives back to its users. The higher the RTP %, the better your chances of winning.
Also examine the pay table for each slot machine. Win lines, symbols and special features such as multipliers and scatters are all explained. Remember, information is key.
Learn the Game Mechanics and Rules
Every sweepstakes casino platform has its own rules and regulations that you should understand before placing a bet. Don’t dive clueless into the game, you could make costly mistakes that could have been avoided.
Since the Chumba Casino lawsuit in 2020, other platforms have been more careful. It’s always good to know the rules of the game you’re playing.
Play for Fun
I would rather not say it too often, but always play for fun. Online casinos and social casinos are all about fun. It is entertainment in the first place, and I’m not the only one to tell you so.
Here is what Caleb Tallman, Sports Journalist & Casino Expert, said about playing for the thrill instead of the money:
Casino gamers and fellow experts understand that there is a necessary avenue for sweepstakes casinos. Regardless of the success of the main casino industry, there will always be players who simply want to experience the games for what they offer at a base level without having to bet with actual cash. So long as this appetite is there, sweepstakes casinos will be able to flourish and offer a viable alternative for those wishing to play and not have to worry about it hitting them in the pocket.
Play Games with High Payout and Favorable Odds
At sweepstakes casinos, here are my tips to increase your chances of winnings:
- Stick to the high-payout games like blackjack and video poker.
- Look for pay tables for important game information.
- Apply gaming techniques when possible.
- Subscribe to email newsletters to stay tuned about offers.
- Follow contest announcements on social media.
- Participate in many sweepstakes tournaments to chase the best prizes.
- Keep an eye on your coins’ balance.
- Pay close attention to the rules of the casino and the games.
- Concentrate on smaller prizes for favorable odds.
- Always play responsibly.
Usually, we always allow our emotions to win. It’s fundamental to feel ecstatic after winning a big bet and melancholy after losing one: you’re human, after all!
Take a 20 minutes’ break before playing any game, win or lose. This will help you recharge and plan so that you can handle next wins and defeats sensibly. Breaks may help you stay out of the losing statistics.
Continuous winning streaks do not mean that you have to keep going. Develop the ability to take a deep breath, stretch your body, and then pull back. This will help you maintain your focus and keep track of your wins and losses.
Sign up to A Sweepstakes Casino in The USA
There are a few steps involved in registering at a social casino or sweepstakes casino in the US, and these can vary slightly depending on the platform. Here is how to go about it:
Choose a Reputable Platform
First, look into several sweepstakes or social casino options to select a trustworthy platform. Examine professional reviews, players feedback, security measures, and fair play certified programs.
Download
Next, go to the official website of the preferred casino or download their mobile app from a reliable source such as Google Play or the App Store.
Create an Account
Click the “Sign Up” or “Register” button, which is often located on the homepage, once you’ve arrived at the platform. Provide your personal details, such as your name, email address, and birthdate. A username may also be required on certain platforms.
Verify your Identity
Regulation compliance often necessitates identity verification on several platforms. This could entail adding more personal information or uploading an updated government-issued ID.
Claim your Bonus
Additionally, you have the choice to accept bonuses or promotions from a wide range of social casinos and sweepstakes. Make sure you are aware of all the terms and restrictions attached to these offers. As a new player, don’t forget to claim your welcome offer!
Complete Registration
Finally, customize any account features and select your favorite username and password. Click the link that is delivered to your email address after submitting your registration to confirm it. Before proceeding, go over and accept the terms and conditions of the platform.
Are Sweepstakes Casinos For You?
So far, I have explained what a sweepstakes’ casino is. The excitement of playing an online casino without real money is an experience you shouldn’t miss.
Sweepstakes casinos have carved out a special place for themselves by offering players an exciting fusion of casino thrills and sweepstakes allure. Because of their legal ambiguity, these sites have attracted a wide range of players looking for entertainment and social connection.
It’s safe to say that once you understand the basics, sweepstakes gambling is an intriguing game that’s easy to play. From the comfort of your home, you can legally play hundreds of casino games with no risk to your money.
If you want to find out more about online gaming experience, don’t hesitate to check our best online casinos US section!
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best sweepstakes casino?
Our review has concluded that WOW Vegas Casino is the top sweepstakes casino currently operating in the USA. From a host of gaming libraries, to welcome bonuses & promotions and instant payout, Wow Vegas truly covers it all.
What is the difference between a social casino and a sweepstakes casino?
Sweepstakes provide players with the opportunity to win real cash prizes through a sweepstakes free-play system. Social casinos focus on entertainment and social interaction without the prospect of winning real money
Is entering a sweepstakes considered gambling?
US Laws differentiate between gambling and sweepstakes, which are not classified as gambling officially. You have to use your own money for any game of chance to be qualified as a gamble. Players are not required to use their funds to enter sweepstakes. Consequently, USA laws allow sweepstakes casinos to operate.
What are the disadvantages of sweepstakes?
Unlike traditional gambling, sweepstakes casinos do not need players to make financial wagers, which may lessen the excitement for certain players. Nonetheless, restrictions on winning redemption and the simplicity of going overboard while buying virtual money are frequent worries.
Do you have to report sweepstakes on taxes?
No, you don’t have to. Taxes are levied by the US federal government on all of your income, including winnings from lotteries, raffles, and sweepstakes. Even if it didn’t cost you a single dime to enter the contest or prize draw, your sweepstakes reward qualifies as income since it has value.
Can you win real money in sweepstakes?
Yes. Sweepstakes Coins, which may be earned as bonuses or awards and then redeemed for real money, allow players to win real money at Sweepstakes Casinos. Sweepstakes Casinos operate under a sweepstakes model, where players can use virtual currencies called Gold Coins and Sweeps Coins.