A sweepstakes casino is a site that lets players enjoy slots, table games, and other casino titles using a dual-currency system instead of traditional cash wagers. Players use a virtual currency for fun and a separate promotional currency that can be redeemed for prizes.
This structure relies on federal and state sweepstakes laws, which require a free way to enter and a no-purchase-necessary path. Because the play money is never directly bet for cash, these sites operate legally in most U.S. states where conventional online casinos are not licensed.
Example usage
- Stake.us and Chumba Casino operate under the sweepstakes casino model.
- Sweepstakes casinos are legal in most states without an online gambling license.
Related terms
- Dual-Currency Model, The two-coin system used by sweepstakes casinos, pairing a free play currency with a separate redeemable promotional currency.
- Gold Coins (GC), The play-for-fun virtual currency at sweepstakes casinos that holds no cash value and cannot be redeemed for prizes.
- No-Purchase Necessary, The legal principle that a sweepstakes must offer a free way to enter and win, with no purchase required to participate.
- Sweeps Coins (SC), The promotional currency at sweepstakes casinos that can be played in games and, once eligible, redeemed for cash prizes or gift cards.