Gambling laws can vary significantly from state to state, making it hard to figure out whether or not it’s legal to visit a brick-and-mortar or online casino. After all, no one wants to inadvertently end up on the wrong side of the law. We’re here to clear things up, though: below, we’re going to run through 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 states in the US. It’s only outright 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 at an online casino:
- Connecticut
- Delaware
- Michigan
- New Jersey
- Pennsylvania
- Rhode Island
- West Virginia
What Are My Options if I Live in a State Where Online Gambling is Prohibited?
If you live in one of the above states, there is another option – that won’t land you in legal hot water! The huge rise of new sweepstakes casinos is largely down to the fact that this type of online casino is legal in most US states. In fact, there are only three states where sweepstakes casinos are prohibited: Idaho, Michigan, and Washington.
Why are sweepstakes casinos legal even in states where online gambling is prohibited? This is where it gets clever! At a sweepstakes casino, virtual currency, rather than money, is used to play. This means that, technically, players aren’t “betting” or “wagering” but are, instead, “entering games.” Further, Sweeps Coins (which can be redeemed for real-world prizes, including cash) aren’t purchased but are attained through, for example, welcome offers, bonuses, in-platform competitions, and by sharing posts on social media. Therefore it’s totally possible to play games 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 great range of games, the focus is very much on fun, and their legions of fans love the sense of community many of these platforms provide. And 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 difference in gambling laws in the different states. For example, even in states where online gambling is generally prohibited, sportsbooks may be allowed. And some states where brick-and-mortar casinos are legal have made online casinos illegal.
If you live in one such state where online gambling is prohibited – or if you’re not sure of the rules – sweepstakes casinos can be a safe choice! Only prohibited in three states in the whole US, this new breed of online gaming establishment offers plenty of opportunities for risk-free gambling as well as the chance to win some great prizes. Win-win!