Sweepstakes casinos are sweeping the nation right now. One of the key reasons for their popularity is the fact that they’re legal in the vast majority of states – even those where “regular” online gambling is prohibited by law.
How do they do it? Well, it’s because members of sweepstakes casinos use virtual currencies to play rather than “real” money, which means they circumnavigate the legalities around gambling.
Best of all? Even though you use virtual currency to play, there’s still the opportunity to win real-world prizes, including cash. Wondering whether online sweepstakes casinos are legal in all states – specifically yours? Keep reading to find out.
Are Sweepstakes Casinos Legal in My State?
Given that sweepstakes casinos are legal in most states, it’s quicker to list where these types of online establishments are currently prohibited! When it comes to online sweepstakes casino USA prohibition, note that they are illegal in the following states:
- Idaho (platforms can offer games where gold coins are only used, but these cannot be exchanged for real-world prizes)
- Michigan
- Washington
And that’s it! In every other state in the US, it’s legal for sweepstakes casinos to operate. So unless you live in one of the states above, it’s totally legal for you to enjoy the games offered at a sweepstakes casino.
It’s worth noting that while sweepstakes casinos are legal in Nevada, many sites choose not to operate in the state.
But How Does a Sweepstakes Casino Know Which State I’m In?
Great question. Say you live in Washington, where sweepstakes casinos are prohibited; what’s to stop you from patronizing an online casino based in Ohio? The law says that online casinos have to take steps to verify a potential player’s age and location to ensure they’re over the legal age to play and are in a state where sweepstakes casinos aren’t prohibited. This is typically done using geolocation technology and the IP address of the player’s device, which advises the server of its location.
If you’re in a state where sweepstakes casinos are illegal, or if the platform can’t verify your location, you’ll be blocked from the site. Thinking about using a VPN to bypass this hurdle? It may work, but even if it does, you won’t be able to redeem any coins you win for prizes.
The Takeaway
Sweepstakes casinos are legal in the vast majority of states: there are only three where they’re currently prohibited, and this could change in the future. While this type of online gaming platform is a popular option for those looking to enjoy some fun, risk-free gambling, it’s not worth the risk of signing up for one if you live in a state where they are prohibited. If you get caught using a VPN to play at a sweepstakes casino in a state where they’re illegal, you could be subject to criminal prosecution.
However, if you live in one of the many states where sweepstakes casinos are legal, then you’re free to enjoy the wide range of games and sociable atmosphere they offer – and maybe even make the most of the opportunity to win a great prize or two!
