Gambling laws can vary significantly from state to state, making it difficult to determine whether or not it is legal to visit a land-based or online casino. After all, no one wants to inadvertently end up on the wrong side of the law. However, we're here to set the record straight: Below, we'll go over the gambling laws in different states so you know exactly where you stand when it comes to gambling.
In which states is online gambling legal?
Gambling is legal (in some form) in the vast majority of US states. It is only completely prohibited (in all forms) in Hawaii and Utah. However, real money online casinos are currently illegal in many states. The following states are where you can Play with and for real money in an online casino:
- Connecticut
- Delaware
- Michigan
- New Jersey
- Pennsylvania
- Rhode Island
- W.V.
What are my options if I live in a state where online gambling is prohibited?
If you live in one of the states above, there is another option – that won't get you into legal trouble! The huge rise in new sweepstakes casinos is largely due to the fact that this type of online casino is legal in most states in the US. In fact, there are only three states where sweepstakes casinos are banned. : Idaho, Michigan and Washington.
Why are sweepstakes casinos legal even in states where online gambling is prohibited? This is where it gets smart! In a sweepstakes casino, virtual currency is used to play, instead of money. This means that, technically, players are not “betting” or “gambling”, but rather “entering the games.” Additionally, Sweeps Coins (which can be redeemed for real-world prizes, including cash) are not purchased, but are earned, for example, through welcome offers, bonuses, competitions on the platform and by sharing posts on social networks. Therefore, it is entirely possible to play and win prizes without spending a cent on coins.
If you live in a state where online gambling is prohibited, a sweepstakes casino could be a great alternative to a “traditional” online casino. As well as offering a wide variety of games, the focus is mainly on fun and their legions of fans love the sense of community that many of these platforms provide. What if you want to play just for entertainment? Gold coins can be used to do just that.
The takeaway
There can be some confusion about the differences in gambling laws in different states. For example, even in states where online gambling is generally prohibited, sports betting may be allowed. And some states where land-based casinos are legal have made online casinos illegal.
If you live in one of those states where online gambling is prohibited, or if you're unsure of the rules, sweepstakes casinos can be a safe option! Banned in only three states across the US, this new type of online gaming establishment offers many opportunities for risk-free gambling, as well as the chance to win big prizes. Everyone wins!