There is some confusion about the real-money aspects of Sweepstars, leading some to speculate that it is a real-money gambling site. In this guide, we uncover the truth and explain why it is considered a social casino instead.
We begin with a closer look at the no-purchase sweepstakes model, detailing some clear differences between Sweepstars and real-money alternatives. We then focus on the virtual tokens, explaining how they work across the site before touching on the areas that can feel a little blurred: Gold Coin purchases and Sweeps Coin redemptions. Time to get in the know.
First and foremost, we want to confirm that Sweepstar is not a real money gambling site. Instead, as we carefully explain in our Sweepstars review, the site operates under a different legal framework, uses virtual tokens, and does not require deposits at any stage. Let us touch on this further.
Unlike real-money online casinos, Sweepstars follows the no-purchase model. This legal framework is what really helps to separate sweepstakes casinos from real-money gambling sites, allowing you to engage with top titles from the off. You will notice that we often reference Sweepstars no-purchase bonus offers, implying that purchases can be made. While this is true, it is important to understand that these Gold Coin purchases are always considered optional, not compulsory.
After making the most of the latest no-purchase Sweepstars promo, you can head to the lobby. Although the gaming titles will look incredibly familiar, it is important to note that these games are considered to be casino-like or casino-style. You will also find that these games are considered skill-based. Again, another clear difference between Sweepstars and real-money alternatives.
Instead of real cash, you’ll use virtual tokens to work your way around Sweepstars. Although offering a similar experience, Gold Coins and Sweeps Coins do have some clear differences.
| Gold Coins | Sweeps Coins |
|---|---|
| Play for fun only | Play in promotional mode |
| Received via promotions, purchases, and gameplay | Received via no-purchase promotions and gameplay only |
| Non-redeemable | Redeemed for cash prizes |
With all of this taken into account, you shouldn’t be too surprised to hear that Sweepstars is available in almost all US states. Provided you are over the age of 18 (or the minimum age as set by your state), you can look to join from any US region, except for Washington, Nevada, Michigan, Idaho, Connecticut, New Jersey, Montana, Louisiana, New York, California, and Tennessee.
As you can see, Sweepstars clearly falls into the social gaming category, but here is where the real money elements come into play. To confirm, these are just optional elements, and do not mean that Sweepstars is a real-money site.
Gold Coin Purchases: If you are finding that the Sweepstars daily bonus isn’t quite filling up your virtual account as you would like it to, then a Gold Coin purchase could be for you. This optional perk allows you to use your Visa, Mastercard, AmEX, Google Pay, or Apple Pay details to purchase a bundle of Gold Coins. As you will see from this table, this purchase could also lead to the release of free bonus Sweeps Coins.
| Purchase bundle | Gold Coins (GC) | Free bonus |
|---|---|---|
| $33.99 (Current deal) | 45,000 GC | 36 Sweeps Coins + 1 Stardust |
| $4.99 | 3,000 GC | X |
| $9.99 | 10,000 GC | 10 Sweeps Coins |
| $19.99 | 20,000 GC | 20 Sweeps Coins |
| $29.99 | 30,000 GC | 30 Sweeps Coins |
| $99.99 | 100,000 GC | 100 Sweeps Coins + 1 Stardust |
Prize redemptions: Alongside optional Gold Coin purchases, you’ll find potential prize redemptions. As the site utilizes RNG and provably fair technology, wins are never guaranteed, but there is certainly potential to walk away with prizes here.
To get the ball rolling, you will first be expected to pass verification checks. This is straightforward, requiring you to click on the Start Verification check before providing basic details, filling out the player profile, and sharing relevant documents. These documents include a government-issued ID and a household bill from the last 3 months.
Once cleared, your account will be considered fully verified, and the option to redeem prizes will become available. Based on our recent visit, you can view your current redeemable balance, providing you with a clear way to track your progress.
All Sweeps Coins must meet a 1x playthrough requirement, and you will need at least 40 redeemable Sweeps Coins to redeem gift cards (Uber, H&M, Taco Bell, etc) or 100 Sweeps Coins to redeem cash prizes via debit card.
Excellent live dealer section. Crash games from developers like BGaming. Fishing arcade collection. T&Cs and 18+ apply
Sweepstars allows you to engage with all areas of the site without spending a dime. However, you will find that you can splash your own cash on Gold Coin bundles. This is completely optional, but it can help to unlock significant boosts to your playing time, as well as some additional free Sweeps Coins. At the other end, we focus on real cash prize redemptions. This is achieved only after you have verified your account, played through SC won via gameplay, and have at least 100 of these redeemable SC in your account.
No. Sweepstars is a social casino. Here, you will find that you can toggle between your Gold Coins and Sweeps Coins to enjoy a fun or promotional mode of play. You will not use cash at any stage, but can purchase optional Gold Coin packages.
No. You cannot win real money at Sweepstars. Instead, you will find that you can play with Sweeps Coins, win more through gameplay, meet minimum requirements, and later redeem prizes.
You will not be expected to make a deposit of real cash to play here. The no-purchase model that is followed by Sweepstars will enable you to pick up Gold Coins and Sweeps Coins throughout.
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