Disclaimer:
Kindly note that we are not legal or tax experts. While we always strive to present the most accurate information, this is not binding legal advice. Always reach out to a licensed lawyer or tax advisor when in doubt.
The Latest Sweepstakes Legal Updates
A lot of sweepstakes casinos are being more cautious about which states to accept after a rise of lawsuits in different states. For instance, Jackpota and Mega Bonanza have recently added Pennsylvania, Delaware and New Jersey to their list of banned states. You can also see this pattern with new sweepstakes casinos. The new sweeps casino Jefebet has a very long list of restricted states: Connecticut, Delaware, Hawaii, Idaho, Kentucky, Louisiana, Michigan, Montana, Nevada, New Jersey, Washington. Another new casino with a considerable list of restricted states is Yay Casino, which restricts Washington, Idaho, New York, Nevada, Kentucky, Vermont, and Michigan.
10 companies announce their participation in the Social and Promotional Gaming Association (SPGA). The aim of the group is to give more visibility on the legitimacy of social sweepstakes games. This helps regulators and policymakers understand how these products work and how they comply with the required laws. The companies include Rolling Riches, High 5 Entertainment, Fliff, and Blazesoft amongst others.
The AGA (American Gaming Association) circulates a memo stating that online sweepstakes casinos undermine gaming regulations and are a threat to consumers. The AGA urges state regulators to send cease-and-desist notices to sweeps operators that they’ll face legal action if they don’t terminate US operations. It also suggests that new laws should be passed to prevent sweepstakes operators from operating.
News emerges that the Delaware Division of Gaming Enforcement sent a letter ordering Virtual Gaming Worlds (VGW) to exit the Delaware market back in February 2023. VGW’s casinos like Chumba Casino, Luckyland Slots, and Global Poker are still operating in this state.
Pulsz adds Alabama and Tennessee to its restricted territories and sends an account message to players in these states. Pulsz informs players that they have until September 9 to use up any Gold Coins and Sweepstakes Coins. All accounts will automatically close on November 9.
Sweepstakes company VGW (company behind Chumba Casino, Luckyland Slots, Global Poker) faces a class action lawsuit in the state of Georgia. Plaintiff Destiny Kennedy alleges that VGW is in breach of local gambling laws.
Sweepstakes casinos like Pulsz, Chumba, and Luckyland withdraw from Montana in anticipation of a new sweepstakes law that will ban sweeps casinos. Some sweepstakes casinos like Stake.us are still operating in this state as they are not outrightly banned yet.
The Michigan Gaming Control Board (MGCB) sends cease-and-desist letters to Sweepstakes Limited (Stake.us), VGW Luckyland Inc, and PredictionsStrike Inc. Reasons vary from promoting an unlicensed online lottery, to offering illegal gambling. As a result, Michigan is a restricted territory for all sweepstakes casinos.
Contest vs. Lotteries vs. Sweepstakes
Contests, lotteries and sweepstakes tend to be used interchangeably, but there are important distinctions between them. The reason why it’s important to distinguish between them is because states can allow one of these, but not others.
The three elements to factor in are:
- Prize: anything of monetary value
- Chance: luck is the deciding factor
- Consideration: An entry fee is required or a significant effort
| Sweepstakes |
Contests |
Lotteries |
| Prize ✅ |
Prize ✅ |
Prize ✅ |
| Chance ✅ |
Chance ❌ |
Chance ✅ |
| Consideration ❌ |
Consideration ✅ |
Consideration ✅ |
The two elements that are there are Prize and Chance. When it comes to sweepstakes, there’s no consideration involved, so no purchase is required to enter. Therefore, you can enter with no significant effort.
In fact, any sweepstakes casino site will have a ‘No Purchase Necessary’ disclaimer at the bottom.
This is also why sweepstakes casinos are obliged to offer AMOE (Alternative Method of Entry) which allows you to send letter requests to get free Sweeps Coins.
Sweepstakes Casinos vs Real Money Casinos
Sweepstakes casinos are also different from real money casinos because real money casinos require Consideration.
Real money casinos will require an ‘entry fee’ in the form of a deposit in order to play. This makes them fall under gambling laws, which are more restrictive and illegal in most US states.
Are special licenses required to operate sweepstakes casinos legally?
No, sweepstakes casinos do not have any special licenses to operate. This is another distinction from real money gambling sites which require licenses from state gaming regulators in order to operate in a particular state.
For example, a real money casino operating in Michigan would need a license from the Michigan Gaming Control Board.
Sweepstakes casinos might have licenses from territories like Curacao, Malta, or Isle of Man, but these are just there for added legitimacy. These licenses are not actually required to operate.
Federal Oversight from the FTC
Sweepstakes casinos fall under the federal oversight of the FTC (Federal Trade Commission), along with the FCC (Federal Communications Commission).
The FTC enforces the federal law of the No Purchase Necessary or Enter to Win law. This law dictates that at least one entry needs to be free, and that no consideration is needed to enter and participate.
Any sweepstakes promotion that requires a fee is illegal in the US.
Sweepstakes Casino Laws by State
| State |
State Law |
State Code |
| Alabama |
Sweepstakes Solicitations |
Ala. Code §§ 8-19D-1 to 8-19D-1 (2006) |
| Arkansas |
Prize Promotion Act |
Ark. Code. Ann. §4-102-101 to 4-102-109 (2006) |
| California |
Prize Notification; Solicitation materials containing sweepstakes entries; Unlawful advertising; conditional offer of prizes or gifts |
Cal. Bus. & Prof. Code § 17537 (2006); Cal. Bus. & Prof. Code § 17539.15 (2006); Cal. Bus. & Prof. Code §§ 17537 – 17537.1 (2006) |
| Colorado |
Sweepstakes and Contests |
Colo. Rev. Stat. §§ 6-1-802 to 6-1-804 (2006) |
| Connecticut |
Sweepstakes |
Conn. Gen. Stat. §§ 42-295 to 42-300 (2006) |
| Florida |
Game Promotion Registration Law |
Fla. Stat. Ann. § 849.094 (2006) |
| Georgia |
Fair Business Practices Act |
Ga. Code Ann. §§ 10-1-392 to 10-1-393 (2006) |
| Hawaii |
Offers of gifts or prizes; unlawful |
Haw. Rev. Stat. § 481B-1.6 (2006) |
| Illinois |
Prizes and Gifts Act; Offers of free prizes, gifts or gratuities; disclosure of conditions |
Ill. Comp. Stat. Ch. 815 §§ 525/1 – 525/35 (2006); Ill. Comp. Stat. Ch. 815 § 505/2P (2006) |
| Indiana |
Promotional Gifts and Contests |
Ind. Code Ann. §§ 24-8-1-1 to 24-8-6-3 (2006) |
| Iowa |
Prize Promotions |
Iowa Code §§ 714B.1 – 714B.10 (2006) |
| Kansas |
Prize Notification |
Kan. Stat. Ann. § 50-692 (2006) |
| Kentucky |
Use of mailed document purporting to inform of winning a prize |
Ky. Rev. Stat. Ann. § 365.055 (2006) |
| Louisiana |
Promotional Contests |
La. Rev. Stat. Ann. §§ 51:1721 – 51:1725 (2006) |
| Maryland |
Offers of conditional prizes; exceptions |
Md. Code Ann. Com. Law I § 13-305 (2006) |
| Michigan |
Lotteries |
Mich. Comp. Laws § 750.372a (2006) |
| Minnesota |
Prize notices and solicitations |
Minn. Stat. § 325F.755 (2006) |
| Nevada |
Sales Promotions |
Nev. Rev. Stat. §§ 598.131 – 598.139 (2006) |
| New Hampshire |
Prizes and Gift Act |
N.H. Rev. Stat. Ann. §§ 358-O:1 to 358-O:10 (2006) |
| New Jersey |
Notification to person that he has won prize and requiring him to perform act |
N.J. Stat. Ann. § 56:8-2.3 (2006) |
| New Mexico |
Game Promotion Regulations |
N.M. Admin. Code tit. 1 §§ 2.2.7 – 2.2.13 (2006) |
| New York |
Game Registration Law; Prize Award Schemes |
N.Y. Gen. Bus. Law § 369-e (2006); N.Y. Gen. Bus. Law § 369-ee (2006) |
| North Carolina |
Prize Presentation Law |
N.C. Gen. Stat. §§ 75-32 to 75-34 (2006) |
| North Dakota |
Contest Prize Notices |
N.D. Cent. Code §§ 53-11-01 to 53-11-05 (2006) |
| Ohio |
Prizes |
Ohio Admin Code § 109:4-3-06 (2006) |
| Oklahoma |
Consumers Disclosure of Prizes and Gifts Act |
Okla. Stat. tit 21 §§ 996.1 – 996.3 (2006) |
| Oregon |
Contest, Sweepstakes and Prize Notification Rules |
Or. Admin. R. §§ 137-020-0410 to 137-020-0460 (2006) |
| Rhode Island |
Prizes and Gifts Act; Games of Chance Registration Act |
R.I. Gen. Laws §§ 42-61.1-1 to 42-61.1-9 (2006); R.I. Gen. Laws §§ 11-50-1 to 11-50-8 (2006) |
| South Carolina |
Prize and Gift |
S.C. Code Ann. §§ 37-15-20 to 37-15-100 (2006) |
| South Dakota |
Sweepstakes Prizes |
S.D. Codified Laws §§ 37-32-1 to 37-32-18 (2006) |
| Tennessee |
Promotions or inducements to sell goods, services or other products; Prizes |
Tenn. Code Ann. § 47-18-120 (2006); Tenn. Code Ann. § 47-18-124 (2006) |
| Texas |
Contests and Gift Giveaways |
Tex. Bus. & Com. Code Ann. §§ 40.001 – 40.005 (2006) |
| Utah |
Prize Notices Regulation Act |
Utah Code Ann. §§ 13-28-1 to 13-28-9 (2006) |
| Vermont |
Contests and Sweepstakes |
Vt. Stat. Ann. tit. 13 § 2143b (2006) |
| Virginia |
Prizes and Gifts Act |
Va. Code Ann. §§ 59.1-415 to 59.1-423 (2006) |
| Washington |
Promotional Advertising of Prizes |
Wash. Rev. Code §§ 19.170.010 to 19.170.900 (2006) |
| West Virginia |
Prizes and Gifts Act |
W. Va. Code §§ 46A-6D-1 to 46A-6D-10 (2006) |
| Wisconsin |
Prize Notices |
Wis. Stat. § 100.171 (2006) |
| Wyoming |
Promotional Advertising of Prizes |
Wyo. Stat. Ann. §§ 40-12-201 to 40-12-209 (2006) |
State Restrictions
Apart from federal oversight from the FTC, every individual state can come up with their own laws regarding sweepstakes casinos. This is why sweepstakes casinos are outrightly banned in Washington and Michigan, while Idaho only allows free play with Gold Coins.
Restrictions on Prize Redemptions
While some states ban sweepstakes casinos from operating, you might also find other restrictions such as capping the value of prize redemptions.
Sweepstakes casinos tend to limit players from New York and Florida to a maximum prize of $5000. Anything more than that will not be redeemed. You will always find this in the casino’s T&Cs.
Here’s an example from McLuck:
This is because New York and Florida require the sweeps casino (or any other sweepstakes provider) to register the contest if the total prize value exceeds $5000.
For New York, this requires:
- A $100 filing fee
- A Certificate of Deposit / Games of Chance Surety Bond
- All the rules and regulations of the promotion
Within 90 days of the game of chance, the New York State Department requires a Certification of Winners, with the names and addresses of each winner having a prize value of over $25.
Florida has similar requirements for prizes exceeding $5000:
- File a copy of the rules and regulations at least 7 days before the promotion
- A filing fee of $100
- A trust account is to be established with a balance sufficient to pay or purchase the total value of all prizes offered
The operator then has 60 days after the promotion to provide the Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services with a certified list of winners.
Legal Minimum Age for Sweepstakes Casinos
Sweepstakes casinos can be accessed by players over the age of 18. This is different from real money casinos which require players to be 21+. However, pay attention to your state laws as a sweeps casino’s T&Cs will always state:
‘18 years of age or the minimum legal age of majority, whichever is greater in the jurisdiction of your residence’
While the vast majority of US states have 18 as the legal age of majority, there are a few exceptions like:
- Alabama: 19+
- Nebraska: 19+
- Mississippi: 21+
The minimum legal age of entry is also dependent on the sweepstakes casino’s rules. Most popular sweepstakes casinos leave it as 18, but casinos like Stake.us pushed it to 21+ for all players.
| Sweepstakes Casino |
Minimum Legal Age |
| Stake.us |
21 years |
| McLuck |
18 years |
| WOW Vegas |
18 years |
| Clubs Poker |
18 years |
| RealPrize |
18 years |
| Sweeptastic |
18 years |
| The Money Factory |
18 years |
| Spree |
18 years |
| Jackpota |
18 years |
Tax Requirements for Sweepstakes Casino Winners
Not sure whether you need to pay tax on your sweepstakes casino winnings or not? We’re here to break it down for you.
For starters, yes, sweepstakes winnings are taxable in the US, depending on the total amount. Regardless of the amount, winnings always need to be declared as income.
There are two types of tax: the federal tax which applies to all US states, and potential state tax, which varies depending on the state you reside in.
There are different forms you need to familiarize yourself with.
This is the easiest form since it’s the standard IRS form to report all income, and casino winnings are viewed as income by the IRS. Sweepstakes winnings should go under ‘Other Income’.
Any winnings are added to your total income and your tax rate is determined based on your total earnings. This means that if you have a lot of winnings to declare, this can push you to a higher tax bracket.
We suggest you keep very detailed records of any winnings and losses. Losses can be deducted from your overall winnings, which reduces the amount of tax you need to pay.
The 1099-MISC form is sent by an online sweeps casino when you win a prize worth more than $600. If you receive this form, you still need to declare everything in form 1040.
Form W-2G is issued when a casino needs to pay $600 or more in winnings, if the winnings are at least 300 times the amount of the wager. If the winnings exceed $5,000, you need to withhold federal income tax of 24%
Alabama
Are Sweepstakes Casinos Legal in Alabama?
- Are sweepstakes casinos allowed:
Yes
- Relevant legal code:
Alabama Code Title 8. Commercial Law and Consumer Protection § 8-19D-1
- Any special restrictions: No
- Legal age of participation:
19
Source: Alabama Code Title 8. Commercial Law and Consumer Protection § 8-19D-1
Alabama players are free to play at sweepstakes casinos since there are no unique state laws restricting their use.
However, the legal age of majority in Alabama is 19, as opposed to the average 18 years.
You can access practically all sweeps casinos, with the exception of McLuck and Pulsz, which currently both list Alabama as restricted territories.
Alaska
Are Sweepstakes Casinos Legal in Alaska?
- Are sweepstakes casinos allowed?:Yes
- Relevant legal code:
Title 5. Amusements and Sports Chapter 15. Games of Chance and Contests of Skill
- Any special restrictions:
No
- Legal age of participation:
18
Source: 2023 Alaska Statutes Title 5. Amusements and Sport sChapter 15. Games of Chance and Contests of Skill
There are no additional laws regarding sweepstakes casinos. Players from Alaska can play freely at sweeps casinos.
Arizona
Are Sweepstakes Casinos Legal in Arizona?
- Are sweepstakes casinos allowed:
Yes
- Relevant legal code:
§ 13-3301
- Any special restrictions:
No
- Legal age of participation:
18
Source: Arizona Revised Statutes Title 13. Criminal Code § 13-3301.
There are no additional laws regarding sweepstakes casinos. Players from Arizona can play freely at
sweeps casinos in Arizona.
Arkansas
Are Sweepstakes Casinos Legal in Arkansas?
- Are sweepstakes casinos allowed:
Yes
- Relevant legal code:
AR Code § 4-102-105 (2023)
- Any special restrictions:
No
- Legal age of participation:
18
Source:
Arkansas Code of 1987 (2023) Title 4 - BUSINESS AND COMMERCIAL LAW (§§ 4-1-101 — 4-119-105) Subtitle 7 - CONSUMER PROTECTION (§§ 4-86-101 — 4-119-105) Chapter 102 - PRIZE PROMOTION (§§ 4-102-101 — 4-102-109) Section 4-102-105 - Prohibited practices
There are no additional laws regarding sweepstakes casinos. Players from Arkansas can play freely at sweeps casinos.
California
Are Sweepstakes Casinos Legal in California?
- Are sweepstakes casinos allowed:
Yes
- Relevant legal code:
Rules for Operation of Contests and Sweepstakes from the Department of Consumer Affairs
- Any special restrictions:
No
- Legal age of participation:
18
Source:
State of California Department of Consumer Affairs, Business & Professions Code sections 17539-17539.3, 17539.35)
There are no additional laws regarding sweepstakes casinos. Players from California can play freely at
sweepstakes casinos in California.
Colorado
Are Sweepstakes Casinos Legal in Colorado?
- Are sweepstakes casinos allowed:
Yes
- Relevant legal code:
Consumer and Commercial Affairs § 6-1-803
- Any special restrictions:
No
- Legal age of participation:
18
Source:
Colorado Revised Statutes Title 6. Consumer and Commercial Affairs § 6-1-803. Prohibited practices and required disclosures
There are no additional laws regarding sweepstakes casinos. Players from Colorado can play freely at
sweepstakes casinos in Colorado.
Connecticut
Are Sweepstakes Casinos Legal in Connecticut?
- Are sweepstakes casinos allowed:
Yes
- Relevant legal code:
Chapter 743n Sweepstakes
- Any special restrictions:
No
- Legal age of participation:
18
Source: Connecticut General Assembly, CHAPTER 743n, SWEEPSTAKES, Sec. 42-295. Definitions. As used in sections 42-295 to 42-301,
There are no additional laws regarding sweepstakes casinos. Players from Connecticut can play freely at
sweeps casinos in Connecticut.
However, VGW casinos (Chumba, LuckyLand, Global Poker) have recently stopped operating in Connecticut after receiving a cease-and-desist letter sent by the Connecticut Department of Consumer Protection (DCP).
This can encourage other sweeps casinos to pull out from this state.
Delaware
Are Sweepstakes Casinos Legal in Delaware?
- Are sweepstakes casinos allowed:
Yes, but at least one operator received cease and desist letters from the Delaware Division of Gaming Enforcement
- Relevant legal code:
Del. Code tit. 6 § 2502A
- Any special restrictions:
No
- Legal age of participation:
18
Source: Delaware code, Legislative Session Act Chapter 452m
tit. 6 § 2502A
There are no laws in Delaware that prohibit sweepstakes casinos, and the vast majority of sweepstakes casinos operate freely in the state.
However, in February 2023, the Delaware Division of Gaming Enforcement ordered VGW (operator of Chumba Casino, Luckyland, and Global Poker) to stop offering its sweepstakes products in the state.
Despite this, all these VGW casinos are still open for Delaware players to join. The missing operator from this state is McLuck casino, which prohibits players from Delaware.
Florida
Are Sweepstakes Casinos Legal in Florida?
- Are sweepstakes casinos allowed:
Yes
- Relevant legal code:
Chapter 849.094 of the Florida Statutes: ‘Game promotion in connection with sale of consumer products or services.'
- Any special restrictions:
Yes, casinos cap prizes at $5000
- Legal age of participation:
18
Source: Florida senate, 2013 statues, Chapter 849 GAMBLING , SECTION 094 Game promotion in connection with sale of consumer products or services.
Florida allows sweepstakes casinos to operate. However, the state has additional restrictions regarding prizes exceeding $5000.
Prizes in excess of $5000 require the operator to register the promotion with the Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services, along with the terms and conditions. The operator also needs to set up a trust account.
In order to avoid these restrictions, sweeps casinos limit Florida players from winning more than $5000. While within this limit, you can play at
sweepstakes casinos in Florida.
Georgia
Are Sweepstakes Casinos Legal in Georgia?
- Are sweepstakes casinos allowed:
Yes
- Relevant legal code:
Fair Business Practices Act § 10-1-393
- Any special restrictions:
No
- Legal age of participation:
18
Source:
2023 CODE OF GEORGIA Title 10 - COMMERCE AND TRADE (§§ 10-1-1 — 10-15-7) Chapter 1 - SELLING AND OTHER TRADE PRACTICES (§§ 10-1-1 — 10-1-945) Article 15 - DECEPTIVE OR UNFAIR PRACTICES (§§ 10-1-370 — 10-1-439.19) Part 2 - FAIR BUSINESS PRACTICES ACT (§§ 10-1-390 — 10-1-408) Section 10-1-393 - Unfair or deceptive practices in consumer transactions unlawful
There are no additional laws regarding sweepstakes casinos. Players from Georgia can play freely at
sweepstakes casinos in Georgia.
However, some sweepstakes casinos might opt to add Georgia as a prohibited territory after a
class action lawsuit was filed against VGW
(Chumba Casino, Luckyland, Global Poker). The plaintiff Destiny Kennedy is alleging that the company offers illegal online gambling products.
Hawaii
Are Sweepstakes Casinos Legal in Hawaii?
- Are sweepstakes casinos allowed:
Yes
- Relevant legal code:
HI Rev Stat § 481B-1.6 (2023)
- Any special restrictions:
No
- Legal age of participation:
18
Source: 2023 Hawaii Revised Statutes Title 26. Trade Regulation and Practice 481B. Unfair and Deceptive Practices 481B-1.6 Offers of gifts or prizes; unlawful.
There are no additional laws regarding sweepstakes casinos. Players from Hawaii can play freely at sweeps casinos.
Idaho
Are Sweepstakes Casinos Legal in Idaho?
- Are sweepstakes casinos allowed:
No, only Gold Coins play
- Relevant legal code:
Idaho Admin. Code r. 04.02.01.080
- Any special restrictions:
No
- Legal age of participation:
18
Source:
Idaho Admin. Code r. 04.02.01.080 - NO PURCHASE REQUIRED FOR CHANCE PROMOTIONS
Idaho does not outrightly prohibit sweepstakes casinos, but it does not allow the redemption of cash prizes.
Since players from Idaho cannot engage in promotional play, Idaho is always on the list of restricted territories at sweepstakes casinos.
Illinois
Are Sweepstakes Casinos Legal in Illinois?
- Are sweepstakes casinos allowed:
Yes
- Relevant legal code:
(815 ILCS 525/) Prizes and Gifts Act
- Any special restrictions:
No
- Legal age of participation:
18
Source: Illinois General Assembly, BUSINESS TRANSACTIONS (815 ILCS 525/) Prizes and Gifts Act.
There are no additional laws regarding sweepstakes casinos. Players from Illinois can play freely at
sweepstakes casinos in Illinois.
Indiana
Are Sweepstakes Casinos Legal in Indiana?
- Are sweepstakes casinos allowed:
Yes
- Relevant legal code:
2023 Indiana Code Title 24. Trade Regulation Article 8. Promotional Gifts and Contests
- Any special restrictions:
No
- Legal age of participation:
18
Source:
2023 Indiana Code Title 24. Trade Regulation Article 8. Promotional Gifts and Contests Chapter 1. Applicability
There are no additional laws regarding sweepstakes casinos. Players from Indiana can play freely at
sweepstakes casinos in Indiana.
Iowa
Are Sweepstakes Casinos Legal in Iowa?
- Are sweepstakes casinos allowed:
Yes
- Relevant legal code:
Chapter 714b Prize Promotions
- Any special restrictions:
No
- Legal age of participation:
18
Source: Iowa Legislature, Chapter 714b Prize Promotions
There are no additional laws regarding sweepstakes casinos. Players from Iowa can play freely at sweeps casinos.
Kansas
Are Sweepstakes Casinos Legal in Kansas?
- Are sweepstakes casinos allowed:
Yes
- Relevant legal code:
Ch. 136, § 214
- Any special restrictions:
No
- Legal age of participation:
18
Source: Kansas 2012 statue, 21-6403.Gambling; definitions. As used in K.S.A. 2012 Supp. 21-6403 through 21-6409, Ch. 136, § 214
There are no additional laws regarding sweepstakes casinos. Players from Kansas can play freely at sweeps casinos.
Kentucky
Are Sweepstakes Casinos Legal in Kentucky?
- Are sweepstakes casinos allowed:
Yes, but some sweeps casinos do not operate in the state
- Relevant legal code:
304.12-092
- Any special restrictions:
No
- Legal age of participation:
18
Source: Kentucky Legislature, 304.12-092 Gifts, sweepstakes, and drawings -- When permitted
Although there are no laws prohibiting sweepstakes casinos from operating, Kentucky has had a long history of class action lawsuits related to social and
sweepstakes casinos in Kentucky.
Some recent ones include SpinX and Pulsz.
This has prompted prominent operators like Stake.us and McLuck to add Kentucky to their list of restricted states.
Louisiana
Are Sweepstakes Casinos Legal in Louisiana?
- Are sweepstakes casinos allowed:
Yes, but some sweeps casinos do not operate in the state
- Relevant legal code:
LA Rev Stat § 51:1726 (2023)
- Any special restrictions:
No
- Legal age of participation:
18
Source: 2023 Louisiana Laws, Statutes Title 51 - Trade and Commerce §51:1726. Sweepstakes promotions, LA Rev Stat § 51:1726 (2023)
There are no additional laws regarding sweepstakes casinos. Players from Louisiana can play freely at
sweepstakes casinos in Louisiana.
However, there is an increasingly evident pattern of sweepstakes casinos restricting Louisiana players from joining. This list includes casinos like McLuck, Jackpota, and Clubs Poker. At this point, it’s unclear why operators are choosing to pull out of this state.
Maine
Are Sweepstakes Casinos Legal in Maine?
- Are sweepstakes casinos allowed:
Yes
- Relevant legal code:
16-633-32 Me. Code R. § 6
- Any special restrictions:
No
- Legal age of participation:
18
Source: Maine Administrative Code 16-633-32 Me. Code R. § 6
There are no additional laws regarding sweepstakes casinos. Players from Maine can play freely at sweeps casinos.
Maryland
Are Sweepstakes Casinos Legal in Maryland?
- Are sweepstakes casinos allowed:
Yes
- Relevant legal code:
Md. Code Regs. 14.23.04.08
- Any special restrictions:
No
- Legal age of participation:
18
Source: Maryland Administrative Code Md. Code Regs. 14.23.04.08
There are no additional laws regarding sweepstakes casinos. Players from Maryland can play freely at
sweepstakes casinos in Maryland.
Massachusetts
Are Sweepstakes Casinos Legal in Massachusetts?
- Are sweepstakes casinos allowed:
Yes
- Relevant legal code:
940 CMR 30.00
- Any special restrictions:
No
- Legal age of participation:
18
Source: 940 CMR: OFFICE OF THE ATTORNEY GENERAL 940 CMR 30.00: ILLEGAL LOTTERIES, SWEEPSTAKES AND DE FACTO GAMBLING ESTABLISHMENTS
There are no additional laws regarding sweepstakes casinos. Players from Massachusetts can play freely at
sweepstakes casinos in Massachusetts.
Michigan
Are Sweepstakes Casinos Legal in Michigan?
- Are sweepstakes casinos allowed:
No. Sweepstakes casinos list Michigan as a restricted state.
- Relevant legal code:
MCL - Section 750.372
- Any special restrictions:
No
- Legal age of participation:
18
Source: Michigan Legislature, THE MICHIGAN PENAL CODE (EXCERPT) Act 328 of 1931, MCL - Section 750.372
Michigan law does not define the term sweepstakes. In order for a promotion to be a sweepstakes it needs to lack ‘consideration’ as otherwise it can be classified as a lottery. In the case of Michigan, actions like being physically present in a business place or paying for Internet access makes it include consideration, thus rendering the activity a lottery.
Although players from Michigan could play freely at sweepstakes casinos, this changed in November 2023 when the Michigan Gaming Control Board (MGCB) sent cease-and-desist letters to prominent operators like Stake.us, Luckyland, and PredictionsStrike Inc.
This prompted sweeps casinos to stop operating in the state.
Minnesota
Are Sweepstakes Casinos Legal in Minnesota?
- Are sweepstakes casinos allowed:
Yes
- Relevant legal code:
325f.755 Prize Notices And Solicitations
- Any special restrictions:
No
- Legal age of participation:
18
Source: Minnesota Legislature, 2023 statues, 325f.755 Prize Notices And Solicitations
There are no additional laws regarding sweepstakes casinos. Players from Minnesota can play freely at sweeps casinos.
Mississippi
Are Sweepstakes Casinos Legal in Mississippi?
- Are sweepstakes casinos allowed: Yes
- Relevant legal code: § 97-33-8
- Any special restrictions: No
- Legal age of participation: 21
Source: Mississippi Code Title 97. Crimes § 97-33-8
There are no additional laws regarding sweepstakes casinos. Players from Mississippi can play freely at sweeps casinos.
However, Mississippi has the highest legal age of majority at 21 years.
Missouri
Are Sweepstakes Casinos Legal in Missouri?
- Are sweepstakes casinos allowed: Yes
- Relevant legal code: §§ 45-5.010 — 45-5.420
- Any special restrictions: No
- Legal age of participation: 18
Source: Missouri Administrative Code, §§ 45-5.010 — 45-5.420
There are no additional laws regarding sweepstakes casinos. Players from Missouri can play freely at sweeps casinos.
Montana
Are Sweepstakes Casinos Legal in Montana?
- Are sweepstakes casinos allowed:
Yes, but a lot of sweepstakes casinos don’t operate in the state
- Relevant legal code:
30-14-1410
- Any special restrictions:
No
- Legal age of participation:
18
Source: Montana Title 30. Trade and Commerce § 30-14-1410. Disclosure and contract requirements
Although there are no additional laws restricting sweepstakes casinos, several operators do not operate in Montana. This list includes McLuck and Wow Vegas.It is unclear why this is the case.
However, there is some good news for Montana players as brands like Stake.us and RealPrize still accept players here.
Nebraska
Are Sweepstakes Casinos Legal in Nebraska?
- Are sweepstakes casinos allowed:
Yes
- Relevant legal code:
§ 86-228
- Any special restrictions:
No
- Legal age of participation:
19
Source:
Nebraska Revised Statutes Chapter 86. Telecommunications and Technology § 86-228. Prize promotions; information required
There are no additional laws regarding sweepstakes casinos. Players from Nebraska can play freely at sweeps casinos. However, note that the legal age of majority is 19, not 18.
Nevada
Are Sweepstakes Casinos Legal in Nevada?
- Are sweepstakes casinos allowed:
Yes, but a lot of sweepstakes casinos do not operate in the state
- Relevant legal code:
Chapter 462 - Lotteries And Games
- Any special restrictions:
No
- Legal age of participation:
18
Source:
TITLE 41 - GAMING; HORSE RACING; SPORTING EVENTS, CHAPTER 462 - LOTTERIES AND GAMES
There are no additional laws regarding sweepstakes casinos and players can play freely at sweeps casinos.
However, players in Nevada might find their options limited as most sweepstakes operators, including Stake.us, do not operate in the state. It is unclear why operators choose to exclude this state.
New Hampshire
Are Sweepstakes Casinos Legal in New Hampshire?
- Are sweepstakes casinos allowed:
Yes
- Relevant legal code:
N.H. Rev. Stat. § 358-O:4
- Any special restrictions:
No
- Legal age of participation:
18
Source: N.H. Rev. Stat. § 358-O:4, Section 358-O:4 - Representation of Eligibility to Win or to Receive a Prize, Gift or Item of Value
There are no additional laws regarding sweepstakes casinos. Players from New Hampshire can play freely at sweeps casinos.
New Jersey
Are Sweepstakes Casinos Legal in New Jersey?
- Are sweepstakes casinos allowed:
Yes
- Relevant legal code:
Consumer Fraud Act
- Any special restrictions:
No
- Legal age of participation:
18
Source: NJ Consumer Affairs, Consumer Fraud Act
There are no additional laws regarding sweepstakes casinos. Players from New Jersey can play freely at
sweeps casinos in NJ.
New Mexico
Are Sweepstakes Casinos Legal in New Mexico?
- Are sweepstakes casinos allowed:
Yes
- Relevant legal code:
N.M. Admin. Code tit. 12, ch. 2, pt. 2 - GAME PROMOTION REQUIREMENTS
- Any special restrictions:
No
- Legal age of participation:
18
Source: New Mexico Administrative Code, N.M. Admin. Code tit. 12, ch. 2, pt. 2 - GAME PROMOTION REQUIREMENTS
There are no additional laws regarding sweepstakes casinos. Players from New Mexico can play freely at sweeps casinos.
New York
Are Sweepstakes Casinos Legal in New York?
- Are sweepstakes casinos allowed:
Yes
- Relevant legal code:
New York Consolidated Laws, Penal Law - PEN § 156.40
- Any special restrictions:
Yes, casinos cap prizes at maximum $5000
- Legal age of participation:
18
Source: New York Consolidated Laws, Penal Law - PEN § 156.40 Operating an unlawful electronic sweepstakes
Similar to Florida, New York has additional restrictions for prizes exceeding $5000. These include a filing fee of $100, a list of all terms and conditions of the promotion, a surety bond, and more.
This prompts sweeps casinos to cap prizes at $5000 and avoid the extra logistics. You can play at
sweepstakes casinos in New York
while under this restriction.
North Carolina
Are Sweepstakes Casinos Legal in North Carolina?
- Are sweepstakes casinos allowed:
Yes
- Relevant legal code:
Article 37. Lotteries, Gaming, Bingo and Raffles
- Any special restrictions:
No
- Legal age of participation:
18
Source: North Carolina legislation, SUBCHAPTER XI. GENERAL POLICE REGULATIONS.Article 37. Lotteries, Gaming, Bingo and Raffles.
Part 1. Lotteries and Gaming.
There are no additional laws regarding sweepstakes casinos. Players from North Carolina can play freely at
sweepstakes casinos in NC.
North Dakota
Are Sweepstakes Casinos Legal in North Dakota?
- Are sweepstakes casinos allowed:
Yes
- Relevant legal code:
Chapter 53-11 - Contest Prize Notices
- Any special restrictions:
No
- Legal age of participation:
18
Source: North Dakota Century Code, Chapter 53-11 - Contest Prize Notices
There are no additional laws regarding sweepstakes casinos. Players from North Dakota can play freely at sweeps casinos.
Ohio
Are Sweepstakes Casinos Legal in Ohio?
- Are sweepstakes casinos allowed:
Yes
- Relevant legal code:
Section 2915.02
- Any special restrictions:
No
- Legal age of participation:
18
Source: Ohio Code, Title 29 Crimes-Procedure , Chapter 2915 Gambling Section 2915.02
There are no additional laws regarding online sweepstakes casinos. Players from Ohio can play freely at
sweeps casinos in Ohio.
Do note however that the Ohio Penal Code prohibits sweepstakes games in a sweepstakes terminal device facility, so sweepstakes games in a physical location are not allowed.
Oklahoma
Are Sweepstakes Casinos Legal in Oklahoma?
- Are sweepstakes casinos allowed:
Yes
- Relevant legal code:
3A OK Stat § 200 (2023)
- Any special restrictions:
No
- Legal age of participation:
18
Source: 2023 Oklahoma Statutes Title 3A. Amusements and Sports, 3A OK Stat § 200 (2023)
There are no additional laws regarding sweepstakes casinos. Players from Oklahoma can play freely at sweeps casinos.
Oregon
Are Sweepstakes Casinos Legal in Oregon?
- Are sweepstakes casinos allowed:
Yes
- Relevant legal code:
Section 646A.803 — Contest and sweepstakes solicitations; required disclosures; prohibited representations
- Any special restrictions:
No
- Legal age of participation:
18
Source: Oregon Statues, Section 646A.803 — Contest and sweepstakes solicitations; required disclosures; prohibited representations
There are no additional laws regarding sweepstakes casinos. Players from Oregon can play freely at sweeps casinos.
Pennsylvania
Are Sweepstakes Casinos Legal in Pennsylvania?
- Are sweepstakes casinos allowed:
Yes
- Relevant legal code:
Pa. Code tit. 61, pt. VII, ch. 901
- Any special restrictions:
No
- Legal age of participation:
18
Source: Pennsylvania Code (Rules and Regulations) Title 61 - REVENUE Part VII - Local Option Small Games of Chance Pa. Code tit. 61, pt. VII, ch. 901
There are no additional laws regarding sweepstakes casinos. Players from Pennsylvania can play freely at
sweeps casinos in Pennsylvania.
Rhode Island
Are Sweepstakes Casinos Legal in Rhode Island?
- Are sweepstakes casinos allowed:
Yes
- Relevant legal code:
R.I. Gen. Laws § 11-50-1
- Any special restrictions:
No
- Legal age of participation:
18
Source: Rhode Island state code, Title 11, Criminal Offenses, Chapter 50, Games of Chance, R.I. Gen. Laws § 11-50-1
There are no additional laws regarding sweepstakes casinos. Players from Rhode Island can play freely at sweeps casinos.
South Carolina
Are Sweepstakes Casinos Legal in South Carolina?
- Are sweepstakes casinos allowed:
Yes
- Relevant legal code:
Prizes and Gift Act
- Any special restrictions:
No
- Legal age of participation:
18
Source: South Carolina Code of Laws, Title 37 - Consumer Protection Code CHAPTER 15 Prizes and Gifts SECTION 37-15-10
There are no additional laws regarding sweepstakes casinos. Players from South Carolina can play freely at sweeps casinos.
South Dakota
Are Sweepstakes Casinos Legal in South Dakota?
- Are sweepstakes casinos allowed:
Yes
- Relevant legal code:
Chapter 37-32 Sweepstake Prizes
- Any special restrictions:
No
- Legal age of participation:
18
Source: South Dakota Legislature, Chapter 37-32 Sweepstake Prizes
There are no additional laws regarding sweepstakes casinos. Players from South Dakota can play freely at sweeps casinos.
Tennessee
Are Sweepstakes Casinos Legal in Tennessee?
- Are sweepstakes casinos allowed:
Yes
- Relevant legal code:
TN Code § 47-18-124 (2023)
- Any special restrictions:
No
- Legal age of participation:
18
Source: 2023 Tennessee Code Title 47 - COMMERCIAL INSTRUMENTS AND TRANSACTIONS (§§ 47-1-101 — 47-50-121) Chapter 18 - CONSUMER PROTECTION (§§ 47-18-101 — 47-18-5706) Part 1 - CONSUMER PROTECTION ACT OF 1977 (§§ 47-18-101 — 47-18-135) Section 47-18-124 - Prizes - Unfair or deceptive practices
There are no additional laws regarding sweepstakes casinos. Players from Tennessee can play freely at
sweepstakes casinos in Tennessee.
Texas
Are Sweepstakes Casinos Legal in Texas?
- Are sweepstakes casinos allowed:
Yes
- Relevant legal code:
Tex. Bus. & Com. Code § 622.101
- Any special restrictions:
No
- Legal age of participation:
18
Source: Texas Code Tex. Bus. & Com. Code § 622.101
There are no additional laws regarding sweepstakes casinos. Players from Texas can play freely at
sweeps casinos in Texas.
Utah
Are Sweepstakes Casinos Legal in Utah?
- Are sweepstakes casinos allowed:
Yes
- Relevant legal code:
76-10-1101
- Any special restrictions:
No
- Legal age of participation:
18
Source: Utah State Legislature, Title 76 Utah Criminal Code, Chapter 10 Offenses Against Public Health, Safety, Welfare, and Morals, Part 11 Gambling,
Section 110176-10-1101
There are no additional laws regarding sweepstakes casinos. Players from Utah can play freely at sweeps casinos.
Vermont
Are Sweepstakes Casinos Legal in Vermont?
- Are sweepstakes casinos allowed:
Yes
- Relevant legal code:
Section 06 031 003 - RULE CF 109 - CONTESTS AND PRIZES
- Any special restrictions:
No
- Legal age of participation:
18
Source: Vermont Administrative Code, Section 06 031 003 - RULE CF 109 - CONTESTS AND PRIZES
There are no additional laws regarding sweepstakes casinos. Players from Vermont can play freely at sweeps casinos.
Virginia
Are Sweepstakes Casinos Legal in Virginia?
- Are sweepstakes casinos allowed:
Yes
- Relevant legal code:
Prizes and Gifts Act
- Any special restrictions:
No
- Legal age of participation:
18
Source: Virginia Code, Prizes and Gifts Act
There are no additional laws regarding sweepstakes casinos. Players from Virginia can play freely at
sweeps casinos in Virginia.
Washington
Are Sweepstakes Casinos Legal in State of Washington?
- Are sweepstakes casinos allowed:
No
- Relevant legal code:
WA Admin Code 230-18-010
- Any special restrictions:
No
- Legal age of participation:
18
Source: Washington Administrative Code Title 230 - Gambling Commission Chapter 230-18 - Promotional contests of chance not licensed by the Washington state gambling commission Section 230-18-010 - Promotional contests of chance similar to bingo
Sweepstakes casinos are not allowed to operate in Washington. There are clear laws that mark these sweeps casinos as illegal.
This means that all casinos list Washington as a restricted state.
West Virginia
Are Sweepstakes Casinos Legal in West Virginia?
- Are sweepstakes casinos allowed:
Yes
- Relevant legal code:
Chapter 46a. West Virginia Consumer Credit And Protection Act
- Any special restrictions:
No
- Legal age of participation:
18
Source: West Virginia Code Chapter 46a. West Virginia Consumer Credit And Protection Act,
There are no additional laws regarding sweepstakes casinos. Players from West Virginia can play freely at sweeps casinos.
Wisconsin
Are Sweepstakes Casinos Legal in Wisconsin?
- Are sweepstakes casinos allowed:
Yes
- Relevant legal code:
Wis. Stats. Ch. 945
- Any special restrictions:
No
- Legal age of participation:
18
Source: Wisconsin Department of Administration, CONTESTS, SWEEPSTAKES AND SALES PROMOTIONS
Wis. Stats. Ch. 945
There are no additional laws regarding sweepstakes casinos. Players from Wisconsin can play freely at sweeps casinos.
Wyoming
Are Sweepstakes Casinos Legal in Wyoming?
- Are sweepstakes casinos allowed:
Yes
- Relevant legal code:
WY Stat § 40-12-201 (2023)
- Any special restrictions:
No
- Legal age of participation:
18
Source:
2023 Wyoming Statutes Title 40 - Trade and Commerce Chapter 12 - Consumer Protection Article 2 - Promotional Advertising of Prizes Section 40-12-201 - Definitions.
WY Stat § 40-12-201 (2023)
There are no additional laws regarding sweepstakes casinos. Players from Wyoming can play freely at sweeps casinos.
Conclusion – only ever play at
legal sweepstakes casinos
that are accessible in your state
Whether you’re looking at long-established social casino giants or
new sweeps cash casinos
with relatively few users, it’s important to keep an eye out for recognizable licenses, solid player reviews and fair promotions when comparing sweepstakes casinos alongside each other. Reading through privacy policies to check your data will be adequately protected is a must, too.
All the social casinos recommended by Ballislife have been thoroughly checked for their legitimacy, though it’s your responsibility to ensure any sweeps site you’re thinking of registering with is fully available in your region before creating an account with them.
Legal sweepstakes casinos
FAQ
🔒 How can I tell whether a sweepstakes casino is safe and legit?
There are several things you ought to look out for when shopping around for social and sweepstakes casinos in your state. Once you’re familiar with the warning signs of unfair and unlicensed providers, it’s easy to stay safe when playing Vegas-style games online. Get more gaming tips with Ballislife today.
🇺🇸 Are sweepstakes casinos legal in my state?
Many sweepstakes casinos offer their services to American gaming lovers in multiple states, but not all social casinos are available in all areas and regions. Our guides to sweepstakes casino gaming can help you find the best operators currently active in your area.
💸 Which US sweepstakes casino has the best bonus?
Sweepstakes casinos tend to get super-competitive when it comes to bonuses. Promotions are the primary means by which these sites reel in new players, so we’d always advise shopping around to pinpoint which operators are offering the best deals instead of settling with the first platform you find. Compare bonus offers between social casinos via our site today.
Disclaimer:
Kindly note that we are not legal or tax experts. While we always strive to present the most accurate information, this is not binding legal advice. Always reach out to a licensed lawyer or tax advisor when in doubt.
BALLISLIFE.COM
