What Are Sweepstakes Casinos? Complete Guide
Learn how sweepstakes casinos work, why they're legal in most US states, and how to win real prizes.
Reading time: 9 minutes
Summary
Sweepstakes casinos operate legally in most US states using a dual-currency model (Gold Coins + Sweeps Coins) with real prize redemption. Top sweepstakes platforms include Thrillzz (classic sweepstakes casino with slots and table games), Jackpota (free entry + redeemable prizes), and Fliff (sweepstakes sportsbook with Fliff Coins + Fliff Cash for sports picks). No purchase is necessary to play or win. This guide explains the legal framework, how each platform works, and how to redeem real cash prizes.
Table of Contents
What Are Sweepstakes Casinos?
Sweepstakes casinos are online gaming platforms that operate under US sweepstakes law rather than gambling regulations. This legal structure allows them to operate in most states where traditional online casinos are prohibited - including California, Texas, Florida, and New York.
How Do They Work?
Sweepstakes casinos use a dual-currency system:
- Gold Coins: Virtual currency for entertainment only (can be purchased)
- Sweeps Coins: Can be redeemed for real cash prizes (obtained free through bonuses or as additions when purchasing Gold Coins)
Players receive Sweeps Coins through daily login bonuses, promotional offers, social media giveaways, or as free additions when purchasing Gold Coin packages.
Why Are They Legal?
Under US sweepstakes law, no purchase is necessary to enter or win. Sweepstakes casinos comply by offering free entry methods like daily login bonuses, mail-in requests, or social media entries. This legal framework allows them to operate in 45+ states.
Best Sweepstakes Casinos
Thrillzz
Thrillzz is a classic sweepstakes casino using the dual-currency model (Gold Coins + Sweeps Coins) with cash-equivalent prize redemption via sweepstakes law. Features a full library of slots and table games with free Sweeps Coins available daily. New players receive a generous welcome bonus. Redeem Sweeps Coins for real cash prizes via PayPal or bank transfer.
Jackpota
Jackpota follows the classic sweepstakes structure with free entry options, virtual coins for entertainment, and redeemable sweepstakes prizes. The platform offers a wide variety of slot games and table games. No purchase necessary to play or win - daily bonuses and promotional Sweeps Coins keep players engaged with real prize potential.
Fliff (Sweepstakes Sportsbook)
Fliff is a sports-focused sweepstakes platform using Fliff Coins + Fliff Cash. Make picks on NFL, NBA, MLB, NHL, and more with player props, over/unders, and parlay-style entries. Fliff Cash redeems for real money via PayPal, Venmo, Cash App, or bank transfer with industry-leading 1-3 day processing. Available in 45+ states including CA, TX, and FL where traditional sports betting is illegal. New players get 100,000 Fliff Coins + $5 Fliff Cash free.
Prize Redemption
Sweeps Coins can be redeemed for real cash once you meet the minimum threshold (typically $10-$50). Redemption methods include PayPal, bank transfer, Venmo, and Cash App depending on the platform. Processing times range from 1-5 business days.
Sweepstakes vs. Social Casinos
The key difference is that sweepstakes casinos offer real prize redemption, while social casinos like BetRivers Social and Betr are purely for entertainment with no cash value. If you want real prize potential, sweepstakes casinos are the way to go.