As you may know, traditional online casinos remain outside the bounds of legality in many US states. Texas, for example, does not permit the operation of standard online casinos. This stringent regulatory environment paves the way for the niche of sweepstakes casinos, which operate under a completely different legal framework.
Texas Sweepstakes Casinos
In this article, we will aim to provide you with in-depth information about the nuts and bolts of Texas sweepstakes casinos. We will delve into their unique model, their offerings, and, most importantly, the nuances that set them apart.
SweepsKings treats readers like royalty. Our team works around-the-clock to source you with honest and in-depth information on sweepstakes casinos. Our reviews, guides, bonuses, and coverage are based on hands-on testing and 100+ years of combined industry experience.
We may receive financial compensation if you play at the legal sweepstakes gaming sites we advertise. Still, our content remains impartial to financial or outside influence and is guided solely by our ethos, research, and industry knowledge.
List of Legal Online Casinos in Texas
2
630,000 Gold Coins + 1400 Fortune Coins
- 10+ fish games
- Progressive jackpots
- Best welcome bonus
4
250 Game Coins, 5 Sweeps Coins, and 600 Diamonds
- Reliable and trusted
- Live casino
- Boosts on demand
Texas Gambling Laws: Online Casino Legal Updates
In Texas, traditional online casinos are illegal. It is clear-cut. As of 2024, the Lone Star State maintains its traditionally conservative stance on online gambling.
Even though there were timid attempts to change the legal landscape, there is still no legislation in Texas that allows for the legal operation of real-money online casinos AND online sports betting websites.
Two bills (namely House Bill 2843 and House Bill 1942) were proposed to legalize casino gaming and sports wagering, but these efforts have not borne fruit. Despite that discussion in the state legislature, it appears VERY unlikely that the legalization of online casinos will occur in Texas in the immediate future.
In the absence of legal traditional online casinos, sweepstakes casinos continue to work as a legal alternative. These platforms allow Texas residents to enjoy casino-style games in a law-compliant format.
How You Can Play Slots and Casino Games in Texas
Texas players seeking the thrill of casino games have limited options. One such option is offshore online casinos. However, these platforms come with drawbacks. They actually operate in a legally ambiguous zone and often bypass local regulations, which, ultimately, can pose huge risks for players in terms of security.
This is where online sweepstakes casinos come into play as they offer a legal and safe alternative. Unlike real-money wagering, the sweepstakes gaming model utilizes virtual currencies (Gold Coins for Standard Play and Sweeps Coins for Promotional Play). In TX sweepstakes casinos, players can enjoy a wide array of gaming options, from classic fruit slots to popular table games.
Signing up for these casinos is a straightforward process and only requires basic personal information to set up an account (government-issued ID, selfie, and proof of address). Players also need to meet the legal age requirement for gambling (21 in Texas).
How are sweepstakes casinos legal in Texas?
Better to say it up front, online sweepstakes casinos are completely legal in Texas as, unlike traditional real-money online gambling, they operate under a unique legal framework.
The sweepstakes model allows all Texas residents to engage in casino-style games without violating the state’s gambling laws. How come? Simply because no purchase is necessary to play. This is a big distinction from real-money online casinos where deposits are required to participate.
In sweepstakes casinos, players do not wager real money directly. Instead, they use a system of virtual currencies, which typically consists of two types of coins: “Gold Coins” and “Sweeps Coins”. Gold Coins are used for playing games for fun (“Standard Play”) while Sweeps Coins are used for engaging in sweepstakes games (“Promotional Play”).
Those virtual currencies can be obtained for free through various methods such as daily login bonuses, weekly/monthly challenges, VIP rewards, social media contests, or even mail-in requests. Players have the chance to win real-world prizes or cash rewards by playing with redeemable Sweeps Coins.
Overview Of The Best Sweepstakes Casinos in Texas
Dive into our top 5 to discover the leading TX online sweepstakes platforms that combine game variety, generous bonuses, and exceptional player experiences.
#1. Stake.us Casino – Best for its provably fair blockchain-based games
- Legal in Texas? Yes.
- Welcome bonus: 10,000 Gold Coins and 1 Stake Cash.
- Number of games: 600+
- Virtual currencies: Gold Coins and Stake Cash.
- Payment methods: Cryptocurrencies (Bitcoin, Ethereum, Litecoin, Dogecoin, Ripple, and Tether).
Stake.us stands out as a dynamic social casino, accessible in 43 US states. Operated by Sweepsteaks Limited, it sets a minimum age requirement of 21. The platform boasts over 600 games from renowned providers like Pragmatic Play and Hacksaw Gaming. Its unique “Originals” collection features 18 provably fair titles. The gaming experience at Stake.us is divided into “Standard Play” using Gold Coins and “Promotional Play” with Stake Cash, which players can obtain through daily login rewards, challenges, raffles, and social media giveaways. Also, all transactions are made in cryptocurrencies.
#2. Fortune Coins Casino – Best for its fish games and seasonal promotions
- Legal in Texas? Yes.
- Welcome bonus: 1,230,000 Gold Coins and 3,900 Fortune Coins.
- Number of games: 200+
- Virtual currencies: Gold Coins and Fortune Coins.
- Payment methods: Credit and debit cards (Visa and MasterCard), e-wallet (Skrill), and online banking (Trustly).
Operated by Social Gaming LLC, Fortune Coins is a newer entrant in the sweepstakes casino market. With over 200 titles from in-house and smaller game providers, its library includes video slots, fish games, progressive jackpot slots, and other genres. Fortune Coins is well-reputed for its generous sign-up offer (1,230,000 Gold Coins and 3,900 Fortune Coins over the first month), its “Fortune Star of the Month” program, and its holiday promotions. While lacking a dedicated mobile app, the platform remains easily accessible on all mobile devices.
#3. Sweeptastic Casino – Best for its huge game library
- Legal in Texas? Yes.
- Welcome bonus: 30,000 Lucky Coins and 4 Sweeps Coins.
- Number of games: 1,000+
- Virtual currencies: Lucky Coins and Sweeps Coins.
- Payment methods: Credit and debit cards (MasterCard and Discover) and cryptocurrencies (Bitcoin, Ethereum, Litecoin, Tether, and USD Coin).
Launched in June 2023 under Heuston Gaming Malta Limited, Sweeptastic Casino is another recent addition to the world of sweepstakes casinos. The platform operates with Lucky Coins for Standard Play and Sweeps Coins for Promotional Play. New users receive a no deposit bonus of 30,000 Lucky Coins and 4 Sweeps Coins, with first-time purchase options offering additional coins. Boasting a collection of over 1,000 games (including slots, card games, roulette variants, and poker games), Sweeptastic Casino updates its library on a daily basis. While there is no dedicated mobile app, the casino’s website is optimized for mobile use.
#4. High 5 Casino: Best for its game boost bonuses
- Legal in Texas? Yes.
- Welcome bonus: 250 Game Coins, 5 Sweeps Coins, and 600 Diamonds.
- Number of games: 800+
- Virtual currencies: Game Coins, Sweeps Coins, Diamonds, and High 5 Casino Coins (classic platform).
- Payment methods: Credit cards (Visa, MasterCard, and Amex), e-wallets (PayPal, Skrill, and Trustly), and online banking.
With over 800 casino-style games, including jackpot slots, Slingo games, and live dealer games from top-notch software providers, High 5 Casino is operated by High 5 Entertainment LLC from New Jersey. New players receive a no-deposit sign-up offer of 250 Games Coins, 5 Sweeps Coins, and 600 Diamonds (for in-game boosts). High 5 Casino is also known for its generous ongoing promotions and VIP rewards. The casino offers a comprehensive mobile app for both Android and iOS and features a range of engaging in-house-built games.
#5. Pulsz Casino – Best for its 200% bonus on the first purchase
- Legal in Texas? Yes.
- Welcome bonus: 5,000 Gold Coins and 2.9 Sweepstakes Coins.
- Number of games: 700+
- Virtual currencies: Gold Coins and Sweepstakes Coins.
- Payment methods: Credit cards (Visa, MasterCard, and Amex), e-wallets (Skrill, and Trustly), and online banking.
Pulsz Casino was launched in 2020 by Yellow Social Interactive Limited. Since then, it has become one of the most prominent sweeps cash casinos in the United States. Upon registration, new users receive up to 5,000 Gold Coins and 2.9 Sweepstakes Coins. They also qualify for 200% extra Gold Coins on their first purchase. The casino boasts over 700 slot games with diverse features (Megaways, Hold and Win, tumbling reels…) as well as a limited selection of table and arcade games. Pulsz also provides a user-friendly app for both Android and iOS devices.
Why Our Experts Selected These Brands
As soon as you explore our catalog, you know that you are tapping into the cream of the crop in online sweepstakes casinos. Our review process is grounded in a comprehensive set of criteria that we believe are critical for a spotless gaming experience.
Key factors we at SweepsKings.com focus on include adherence to sweepstakes rules, a wide array of gaming options, enticing promotional offers, diverse payment methods, customer support efficiency, excellence in software quality, cross-device compatibility, and the platform’s overall usability.
How Payments Work
While playing games should ALWAYS be free (as per the “No Purchase Necessary” clause), there is an option to purchase extra Gold Coins to extend play if your balance is getting low.
These Gold Coins have no monetary value and are used for playing games for entertainment only. Conversely, Sweeps Coins, which can be redeemed for real prizes, cannot be directly purchased. Instead, they are obtained as complimentary bonuses with Gold Coin purchases, through various promotions, and so on.
In order for you to redeem the Sweeps Coins you have accumulated through gameplay, you must undergo an identity verification process. Also, remember that most Texas sweepstakes casinos set a minimum redemption threshold. As such, players need to accumulate a certain amount of Sweeps Coins before submitting a redemption request.
The redeemed prizes are usually paid out via bank transfers, e-wallets, cryptocurrencies, or checks. All players must be of legal gambling age (usually 18 years or older) to register an account and participate.
All TX sweepstakes casinos are actively committed to promoting responsible social gameplay. To help users avoid excessive spending or playing, they allow them to implement their own limits (notably on Gold Coin purchases and playing time). On top of that, players are given the possibility of temporarily or permanently disabling their accounts via self-exclusion options if they feel the need to take a break.
Can you win real money playing sweepstakes casino games?
As we said in the previous sections, even though sweepstakes platforms operate using virtual currencies, they still offer the feature of potentially winning real-money prizes or equivalents (gift cards and merchandise) through the use of Sweeps Coins.
Those need to be utilized in sweepstakes games (“Promotional Play”) and are the key to winning cash. As soon as you have Sweeps Coins, you can engage in your casino’s sweepstakes games, which mirror the experience of real-money gambling. If you secure winnings, they can be redeemed for real money (as well as other real-world prizes).
Make sure that your account is fully verified, meet a minimum threshold of winnings for redemption, clear any wagering requirements, and choose a payment method for receiving your prize (cards, e-wallets, cryptocurrencies, online banking…).
Also, always remember that there are a number of ways to obtain free Sweeps Coins (no-deposit welcome offer, daily login rewards, social media contests, mail-in requests…).
Your Gaming Options at Texas Sweepstakes Casinos
Texas sweepstakes casinos offer a diverse range of gaming options and cater to various preferences of players. Here is an overview of the common gaming options available:
- Slots offer a wide range of choices from classic three-reel slots to sophisticated video slots. They come in various themes and include exciting features like free spins, bonus rounds, tumbling reels, variable paylines, Megaways, sticky Wilds, progressive jackpots, and many other surprises.
- Table games offer all-time classics like blackjack, roulette, baccarat, and craps. Each game comes in multiple variations and provides a mix of strategy and chance.
- Some sweepstakes casinos include rooms where various forms of poker (Texas Hold’em, Omaha, Stud, Razz, Badugi, and so on) are played. These platforms even host tournaments.
- Players can also engage in games hosted by live dealers. Popular options include live versions of blackjack, roulette, baccarat, craps, and even Sic Bo.
- Fish table games offer an interactive and entertaining experience where players shoot at virtual fish to collect rewards. One of the best examples is “Emily’s Treasure” by Blazesoft. These games combine skill and strategy with visually rich graphics.
- Other specialty games like keno, bingo, and scratchcards may also be available. Those games appeal to players looking for quick gaming sessions as they offer straightforward gameplay with the potential for instant wins.
- Slingo games combine the elements of slot machines and bingo. They offer an engaging twist on both games and are available in multiple themes and variations.
- Lastly, many Texas sweepstakes casinos also feature strategy-based games, which stand out for their creative design and innovative gameplay. They include Crash, Plinko, Wheel of Fortune, Hi-Lo, Minesweeper, Aviator, and Limbo (just to name a few).
Bonuses and Promotions at Texas Online Casinos
Texas sweepstakes casinos offer a range of bonuses and promotions that are very distinct from those you can find in standard online casinos. The main differentiator is that these bonuses align with the “No Purchase Necessary” principle.
As such, players are provided with free virtual currencies (like Gold Coins and Sweeps Coins) rather than deposit matches. Therefore, they can enjoy games and win tangible prizes without ever having to spend real money. Here is an overview of the most common sweepstakes bonuses:
- Sign-up bonus: New players typically receive a no-deposit welcome offer, which usually includes a hefty amount of Gold Coins and, most importantly, a set amount of redeemable Sweeps Coins. It allows immediate and free-of-charge engagement in all types of games offered.
- First purchase bonus: While purchases are NEVER necessary, players who choose to buy Gold Coins will often receive a bonus in the form of additional Sweeps Coins to be used as sweepstakes entries.
- Daily login bonus: To encourage regular play and engagement, Texas sweepstakes casinos reward players with daily bonuses just for logging in. Those bonuses usually include a set amount of free Gold Coins and Sweeps Coins.
- Social media competitions: Many casinos run contests, giveaways, and interactive activities (such as trivia and quiz challenges, photo or video submission contests, and so on) on their social media platforms (like Facebook, X, Instagram, and Discord) and offer free Sweeps Coins as prizes.
- Refer-a-friend bonus: Players who invite friends to join the sweepstakes casino often receive bonuses. Each successful referral typically results in free Coins credited to their account.
- Mail-in requests: As an alternative method of entry (AMOE), many TX sweepstakes casinos offer the option to request free Sweeps Coins by mail.
- VIP program bonus: Many sweepstakes casinos offer VIP programs. These have multiple tiers, with perks and benefits increasing at each level. Top-tier members usually enjoy increased coin bonuses, tailored promotions, personalized customer service, rakeback, and early access to new features.
As you may have noticed, all these bonuses are structured to comply with sweepstakes laws. Unlike real-money casinos that frequently offer cash bonuses, TX sweepstakes casinos focus on virtual currencies. They have no direct cash value until they are used to play in “Promotional Play” mode.
Comparison of the Best Texas Casinos with Real Cash Prizes
| Texas Sweepstakes Casinos | Welcome Bonus | Games | Best Feature | Apps |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Stake.us | 10,000 Gold Coins and 1 Stake Cash | 600+ | Provably fair blockchain-based games | No |
| Fortune Coins | 1,230,000 Gold Coins and 3,900 Fortune Coins | 200+ | Fish games | No |
| Sweeptastic Casino | 30,000 Lucky Coins + 4 Sweeps Coins | 1,000+ | Huge game library | Yes |
| High 5 Casino | 250 Game Coins, 5 Sweeps Coins, and 600 Diamonds | 800+ | Game boost bonuses | Yes |
| Pulsz | 5,000 Gold Coins and 2.9 Sweepstakes Coins | 700+ | 200% first purchase bonus | Yes |
Aspects in Favor and Against Sweepstakes Casinos in Texas
Online sweepstakes casinos offer a legal alternative to real-money online casinos, especially in jurisdictions where online gambling might be restricted (as is the case in Texas). These platforms allow players to enjoy a wide variety of games without the need to spend real money.
Although no purchase is necessary, they still have the chance to win real-world prizes (like cash, gift cards, and merchandise) through Sweeps Coins. They are known for offering daily no-deposit bonuses and other forms of engaging promotional offers.
However, the potential winnings at online sweepstakes casinos are generally smaller compared to those at real-money casinos. Also, the variety of games offered (especially table games and live dealer games) might not match the full range found in real-money casinos.
It is also true that some online sweepstakes casinos may offer less efficient customer support compared to their real-money counterparts.
Pros
- Sweepstakes casinos operate legally in many states where traditional online gambling is highly restricted.
- Players can enjoy games without the need to spend real money (“No Purchase Necessary” principle).
- You have the opportunity to win real-money prizes while playing with Sweeps Coins.
- They offer a wide range of gaming options (especially slots) similar to traditional online casinos.
- Daily no-deposit rewards and engaging promotional offers (social media contests, VIP program bonuses, leaderboard challenges, holiday and seasonal promotions...).
Cons
- Winnings are typically smaller compared to real-money online casinos.
- Sweepstakes casinos may not offer the full range of games found in real-money casinos.
- The odds of winning can vary significantly and big wins are not guaranteed.
- Some may have less robust customer support.
Other Gambling Options for Texas Players
While online casinos and sportsbooks remain off the legal radar in Texas, players are not left without alternatives. Among these, online sweepstakes casinos stand out as the primary option. Additionally, the Texas Lottery offers a variety of games, including scratch-off tickets, draw games, and multi-state jackpots like Powerball and Mega Millions.
Texas also hosts several licensed racetracks where parimutuel betting on horse and greyhound racing is legal. Lastly, Texas is home to three tribal casinos (Kickapoo Lucky Eagle Casino, Naskila Gaming, and Speaking Rock Entertainment Center), which all operate under federal regulations.
Author: Bogdan Lunkan
Updated:
Bogdan Lunkan has been playing sweepstakes casino games before it was cool! He has achieved top VIP status on a number of sweepstakes casinos and regularly bets the max when playing his favorite slots. Bogdan takes you inside the mind of a high-stakes player, and following his tips, you too can redeem lots of sweeps coins.
Bogdan Lunkan has been playing sweepstakes casino games before it was cool! He has achieved top VIP status on a number of sweepstakes casinos and regularly bets the max when playing his favorite slots. Bogdan takes you inside the mind of a high-stakes player, and following his tips, you too can redeem lots of sweeps coins.
