
Quick Intro
The Old Line State is keeping pace with advanced changes in sports betting laws, much like several other states. However, it might take a few more years before online casinos become accessible to its casino aficionados.
Lucky for Maryland’s residents, the state provides the green light for legal sweepstakes and social casino gameplay for those 18 years and above.
This unique sweepstakes casino approach allows winners to convert their sweepstakes prizes into actual cash using popular payment options accepted by the general populace.
For those who have a soft spot for playing slots, as well as table and card games without any charges, a genuine casino ambiance awaits, and it’s remarkably simple to dive into.
Allow us to guide you through top-rated casinos, enticing bonuses, and an array of games on offer so you can effortlessly pinpoint your next favorite sweepstakes casino destination.
Is participating in Sweepstakes Casinos allowed in Maryland?
In Maryland, there’s a clear stance on the legality of sweepstakes casinos. For residents who have crossed the age of 18, they can freely engage in these chance-based games. All they need to do is set up and verify an account with the online platform of their choice.
To give you a clearer picture of what makes sweepstakes casinos lawful in Maryland, let’s delve into some pivotal points:
Every game offered – whether slots, card, or table games – should be accessible without any charge.
Entry into the sweepstakes should also be available at zero cost.
The companies running these casinos ensure that the promised sweepstakes prizes, which can be exchanged for actual money, are delivered to the winners.
A distinctive feature that adds to the legality of this gaming form is the two-tiered currency model utilized by sweepstakes casinos: Gold Coins and Sweeps Coins. The Gold Coins give participants the thrill of playing casino games without any money at stake – purely for enjoyment.
On the other hand, Sweeps Coins (SC) act as real tickets for the sweepstakes draws.
When you place bets or make entries using Sweeps Coins, you’re essentially participating in a legal sweepstake. It’s similar to completing a ticket entry for a drawing contest with exciting prizes awaiting. In the world of sweepstakes casinos, any amount you win using the SC currency can be translated into actual cash.
In essence, these foundational principles ensure that sweepstakes casinos and their related social casino platforms operate without any legal hitches, not only in Maryland but also in the majority of US states.
Best Sweepstakes Casinos in Maryland 2023
While this isn’t an exhaustive compilation, the following casinos serve as an excellent selection for both newcomers and experienced casino enthusiasts. It’s recommended to access these casinos through the provided links to avail the promotional offers they have in store. If you’re looking for a deeper dive into the world of MD sweepstakes casinos, feel free to continue reading, as we’re here to furnish you with all the intricate details you might desire.
1. WOW Vegas Casino – 5,000 WOW Coins on Sign-up + 300% First Purchase Bonus
2. McLuck Casino – Unlock 57,500 GC + 27.5 FREE SC
3. High 5 Casino – 5 FREE SC + 600 Diamonds + 250 Game Coins
4. Stake.us – Free 10,000 GC + 1 SC Daily + 5% Rakeback
5. Fortune Coins Casino – 360,000 Free Coins + $12 Fortune Coins No Deposit Bonus

Maryland Best Sweeps Casinos
Is Online Gambling Legal in Maryland?
In Maryland, the question often arises: “Is online gambling lawful?” While Maryland is home to six grand land-based casinos and resorts, these venues also provide options for sports betting. As recent as 2021, Maryland took a progressive step forward by ushering in online sports betting, which took off in full swing at the beginning of 2023.
However, for avid fans of platforms such as BetMGM, DraftKings, FanDuel, and several others, accessing a Maryland-based online casino remains a distant dream for now. Yet, hope might not be lost completely. There’s chatter about the potential introduction of the MD state Senate Bill 267 that might change things.
This bill, among its many provisions, suggests initiating a discussion about online casinos and letting the citizens decide its fate through a referendum vote, tentatively scheduled for the tail end of 2024. While there’s a strong buzz that the majority might tilt in favor of iGaming, the real implementation might not see the light of day until around 2026.
So, in essence, while Maryland is inching closer to legalizing online casino sites, they still have a few more miles to cover. Until then, Maryland residents wanting a taste of casino gaming have sweepstakes casinos as their only legitimate avenue.

Legal Staff in Maryland
Free Sweepstakes Casino Bonuses in Maryland: An Online Experience
Upon deep diving into the subject, it’s evident that the US boasts over a dozen renowned sweepstakes casinos, each with its unique offerings and appeal.
A unifying trait across these platforms is the inviting nature of their setup: qualifying locals can register without any charges, lay claim to enticing bonuses, and delve into a vibrant world of slots and diverse casino games teeming with Gold Coins & Sweeps Coins.
What distinctly sets sweepstakes casinos apart is their core philosophy. Unlike traditional online casinos where the focus might lean towards monetary deposits, these platforms prioritize the entertainment and joy of their users.
Once you embark on the journey as a signed-up member, you’ll be greeted by sleek, user-friendly websites optimized for both desktop and mobile experiences. Moreover, the integration of SSL (Secure Sockets Layer) encryption ensures that your transactions remain protected, especially when you’re in the mood to snag a Gold Coin package, which also brings along some Sweeps Coins.
Armed with a healthy stash of GCs, you can consistently replenish your free bankroll. This enables a thrilling exploration of slot games crafted by industry stalwarts such as Pragmatic Play, Nolimit City, 3 Oak Gaming, Big Time Gaming, and many more awaiting discovery.

No Deposit Bonus
Sweepstakes Casino Gaming Explained
In case you’re unfamiliar with social casinos or sweepstakes venues, our specialists are here to illuminate the basics for you. Dive into the world of free slots, embrace a variety of sweepstakes, and benefit from enticing promotions. And, if you’re looking to elevate your gaming session, there’s always an option to acquire additional coins.
Now, you might be pondering: how do the games offered at sweepstakes casinos compare to those in standard online casinos? Is there a significant distinction between sweepstakes slots and those you’d typically find online?
Exploring Sweepstakes Slots
In terms of game quality, assortment, and count, sweepstakes casinos surely stand shoulder to shoulder with their regular online counterparts. Incredibly, numerous leading slots which you might have come across in online casinos can similarly be located in the sweepstakes establishments highlighted in our guide.
Both online and sweepstakes casinos have a keen eye for sourcing their slot games from renowned, national, and global providers. Authorized entities, fully registered within the state, undergo consistent evaluations by third-party auditors specific to the online casino realm. These auditing bodies employ intricate algorithms to scrutinize various game attributes like RTP, volatility, fairness, and comprehensive adherence to set standards.
However, a fundamental distinction lies in the currency employed. It’s evident that in sweepstakes platforms, you aren’t placing wagers or spins with real money, paving the way for a secure online gaming experience.
Imagine hitting a jackpot slot using Sweeps Coins! While your reward will flaunt the casino’s unique SC emblem, the amount won can be conveniently converted to actual cash!
In essence, sweepstakes slots empower players with opportunities to secure real winnings, all without the necessity to invest a single cent. With a vast spectrum of slot game styles, from Megaways to Hold & Win to classic paylines, players are guaranteed an exhilarating and unparalleled gaming journey.
Table Games
When it comes to table games at sweepstakes casinos, their offerings seem to slightly lag behind those of regular online casinos. The reasons for this limited range remain a bit elusive.
At numerous sweepstakes casinos featured on our site, we’ve delved into games like blackjack, poker, holdem, baccarat, and roulette. A notable aspect of these games is their superior quality, characterized by intricate 3D designs and details.
However, the key observation remains that the variety is somewhat restricted, with a lesser spectrum of game variants and software developers.
Yet, for those passionate about table games, our top pick for a sweepstakes or social casino would be BetRivers.net. Renowned for its comprehensive collection of both virtual and live dealer games, its table game repertoire is rivaled only by High 5 Casino and Stake.us.
Fish Table Games
We can imagine your eyebrows raising at this segment, but hold that thought for a moment. Fish games are genuinely fascinating and they’re making a splash. Sweepstakes casinos offer an array of fish table games as well as fishing-themed slots.
Take, for instance, “Emily’s Treasure,” which is equipped with added features to amplify your haul. Similarly, “Big Bass Bonanza” enthralls players with its coveted cash-collect feature during bonus free spins.
For aficionados of fishing, these games are like striking gold, perfectly blending their passion with casino gaming delights.
Live Casino
The rise of cutting-edge digital technology and swift internet connections has introduced a new dimension to casino entertainment: live dealer studios. However, just like their virtual table game counterparts, live dealer games aren’t widely available in sweepstakes casinos.
For many casino enthusiasts in the US, the anticipation continues as they await the chance to connect live and engage in games like poker, blackjack, roulette, and other popular offerings, including Monopoly Live, Power Wheel, Dream Catcher, Crazy Time and more.
Still, there’s a silver lining. A few social casinos extend live dealer game experiences, akin to what you’d expect from mainstream online casinos. Notable platforms in this regard include BetRivers and Casino4Fun by RushGames, both offering attractive sign-up incentives. It’s worth noting that Stake.us and H5C stand out as the sole sweepstakes casinos boasting a live gaming lounge.
Purchase and Redeem Options
The emergence of fast internet speeds and advanced digital equipment has introduced a new dimension to the world of casino gaming: the introduction of live dealer studios. However, it’s unfortunate that, similar to virtual table games, live games are not widely available in sweepstakes casinos.
For most casino enthusiasts in the United States, there’s a waiting period before they can access live feeds to enjoy games such as poker, blackjack, roulette, and a variety of other casino and non-casino games like Monopoly Live, Power Wheel, Dream Catcher, and more.
Nevertheless, you still have some options available, as certain social casinos provide live dealer games that you can enjoy just as you would on a typical online casino platform. The primary destinations for this experience are BetRivers and the Casino4Fun platform by RushGames, both of which offer attractive welcome offers for players. Additionally, Stake.us and H5C stand out as the only two sweepstakes casinos that feature a live casino lobby.
Redeem Options
Redeeming your Sweeps Coins winnings is a breeze, and it comes with a reassuring level of simplicity and security. In most sweepstakes casinos, the conversion rate is a neat one SC for US $1.00, staying true to the casino norm. What’s even more delightful is that these casinos typically don’t burden you with withdrawal fees. So, whatever you win is precisely what you can seamlessly transfer to your bank account, a coveted gift card, or, in select instances, a crypto wallet.
Now, in those states where sweepstakes casino players can transform their winnings into cold, hard cash—think places like Maryland—there’s a little dance with verification. You’ll need to prove that you’re the rightful owner of that winning account. This verification involves a two-step tango, with your phone number taking the lead, followed by a graceful submission of bills or a trusty ID to confirm your address and certify your age.
The journey to cashing out kicks off when you gracefully glide your cursor to the Cashier or Cash Out button, usually perched atop the webpage or tucked away neatly in the menu.
As for withdrawal limits, they’re as diverse as the colors of a rainbow. They can range from a humble $5.00 to a more substantial $50.00, and the daily maximums can ascend to a princely $5,000, though this number can play a fickle game, varying from one casino to the next.
When it comes to payment methods, you’ll find a familiar ensemble of options that most players adore. These timeless choices include:
- Visa
- MasterCard
- Online banking
- PayPal
- Skrill.
But wait, there’s more! Some casinos are stepping into the future with crypto payment options. Leading this charge is the undefeated champion, Stake.us. Here, you can dive into the world of cryptocurrencies, making deposits and withdrawals with:
- Bitcoin
- Litecoin
- Dogecoin
- EOS
- Ripple
- Tron.
For those seeking more crypto-fueled adventures in the realm of sweepstakes, Sweeptastic, DingDingDing and LuckyBird stand as the rare beacons of hope, offering you the tantalizing opportunity to explore the crypto-scape.
Maryland’s Online Gambling Regulations
The looming 2024 referendum concerning online casinos holds the potential to usher in a significant shift in their legal status, but it’s essential to keep in mind that such decisions typically don’t take immediate effect. If we draw a parallel to the timeline it took for legal online sportsbooks to make their mark in the Maryland market, we’re looking at a wait of at least two years following the referendum.
In the realm of land-based casinos, Maryland’s stringent regulations fall under the jurisdiction of the Maryland Lottery and Gaming Control Agency. These regulations place substantial responsibilities on casino operators to combat the adverse effects of problem gambling throughout the state.
Given that online casinos are poised to adopt a similar operating model as their land-based counterparts, it’s highly likely that regulatory bodies will insist on implementing stringent safety standards. This means that online platforms will need to incorporate robust age and identity verification mechanisms.
The process of implementing and enforcing these measures will undoubtedly take several years, effectively leaving sweepstakes casinos as the sole prominent and legally viable option for enjoying casino games online within Maryland.
Internet Sweepstakes Cafes in Maryland
Maryland shares a resemblance with several other states across the nation in hosting internet sweepstakes cafes. However, the unique challenge these establishments face lies in their ambiguous legal status, which neither categorizes them as entirely legal nor entirely illegal.
While casual casino players might draw parallels between sweepstakes cafes and sweepstakes casinos, the distinctions between the two are profound. Starting with the quality of the gaming experience, internet cafes simply can’t measure up, lacking access to games from top-tier providers.
Furthermore, they fall short in offering the tantalizing allure of progressive jackpots, which are a hallmark of sweepstakes casinos, along with welcome bonuses that are equally enticing.
Although on the surface, the models may appear similar, it’s clear that sweepstakes casinos outshine their cafe counterparts in terms of both gaming quality and the potential Sweeps Coins rewards awaiting players in each game.
Final Thoughts
In Maryland, the landscape of online gambling is evolving, with the promise of online casinos on the horizon. However, the transition may take a few years, leaving sweepstakes casinos as the primary legal option for those seeking casino gaming. These sweepstakes casinos offer exciting opportunities to play for free and convert winnings into real cash. While the path to fully-fledged online casinos may be winding, the journey through sweepstakes casinos is a rewarding one for Maryland residents.
FAQ
Is participating in Sweepstakes Casinos allowed in Maryland?
Yes, Maryland allows residents aged 18 and above to engage in sweepstakes casinos. Setting up and verifying an account with your chosen online platform is all you need to get started.
Is Online Gambling Legal in Maryland?
Online gambling in Maryland is gradually evolving. Online sports betting has recently been legalized, and there’s a potential for online casinos in the future, pending a referendum vote, tentatively scheduled for 2024.
What are the Best Sweepstakes Casinos in Maryland for 2023?
Here are some top sweepstakes casinos in Maryland for 2023:
- WOW Vegas Casino
- McLuck Casino
- High 5 Casino
- Stake.us
- Fortune Coins Casino
What Sets Sweepstakes Casinos Apart from Traditional Online Casinos?
Sweepstakes casinos prioritize the entertainment and joy of users. They offer free registration, enticing bonuses, and the opportunity to play without spending real money. While the game quality and variety are similar to traditional online casinos, sweepstakes casinos use a two-tiered currency system (Gold Coins and Sweeps Coins) that allows for real cash conversion.
Are Live Dealer Games Available in Sweepstakes Casinos?
Live dealer games are not widely available in sweepstakes casinos, but some social casinos like BetRivers and Casino4Fun offer live dealer experiences similar to traditional online casinos. Stake.us and H5C stand out as the only sweepstakes casinos with a live casino lobby.