How Sweeps Coins Redemptions Work at Sweepstakes Casinos

Curious about how to turn your Sweeps Coins into real prizes? This guide breaks down everything you need to know about SC redemptions at sweepstakes casinos — including how to earn them, meet playthrough requirements, and cash out via gift cards, bank transfer, or crypto. Whether you play on McLuck, Chumba, or WOW Vegas, this article shows you how to redeem smarter.

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Jun 4, 2025

What Are Sweeps Coins and How Do They Work?

Sweepstakes casinos operate using a unique dual-currency model. Players wager Gold Coins (GC) for entertainment only, while Sweeps Coins (SC) can be used to win redeemable rewards such as cash or gift cards.

You can’t purchase Sweeps Coins directly; they’re typically given out as a bonus when you buy Gold Coin packages or claim free promotions like daily logins, mail-in entries, or social giveaways.

Pro tip: Check out our beginner’s guide to sweepstakes casinos for more on dual-currency gameplay.

Do Sweeps Coins Have Real Value?

Yes, they do; once you've met specific conditions. While SC aren’t real money, they can be converted into real prizes after fulfilling playthrough and minimum redemption requirements. However, note that:

  • Players do not own their Sweeps Coins - they're non-transferable and usable only at the issuing casino.
  • You must wager SC at least once before redemption.
  • You usually need a minimum balance of 50–100 SC to cash out.

Why You Can’t Buy Sweeps Coins Directly

To stay compliant with U.S. promotional sweepstakes laws, sweepstakes casinos must not sell Sweeps Coins. Instead, they provide a free way to acquire SC, which legally separates them from real-money casinos.

Players can still receive SC through:

  • Bonus bundles tied to Gold Coin purchases (e.g., 27.5 SC with a $9.99 package)
  • Mail-in entries (AMOE) Learn how to send a valid AMOE entry
  • Referral programs and social media giveaways

How to Get Free Sweeps Coins

Here are the most common ways to earn SC without purchase:

Sign-up Bonus

Registering a new account typically gives a mix of GC and SC

Daily Login Rewards

Log in daily to collect coins — often better with streaks

Mail-In Requests (AMOE)

Send a postcard to receive SC for free (no purchase needed)

Referral Bonuses

Earn SC when friends join and make qualifying purchases

Social Giveaways

Follow casinos like WOW Vegas or McLuck for promo codes

Gold Coin Purchases

SC are awarded as bonuses for GC packs (e.g., 3 SC for $2.99)

How to Redeem Sweeps Coins (SC)

Once you’ve earned SC and fulfilled the necessary conditions, follow these steps to redeem:

  1. Visit the Redemption Area Find the “Redeem” or “Cashier” tab in your account.
  2. Choose a Redemption Method Options usually include cash, gift cards, or sometimes crypto.
  3. Enter Amount You can redeem all or part of your balance, as long as it meets the minimum threshold (typically 50–100 SC for cash, 10 SC for gift cards).
  4. Provide Payment Details Fill in your e-wallet, card, or mailing info depending on the method selected.
  5. Submit Request The casino’s financial team will review and process your redemption.

Redemption Options & Processing Times

Bank Transfer

Secure but slower

Processed within 3–10 business days

E-Wallet (PayPal, Skrill)

Fast and flexible

Processed within 1–2 days

Gift Cards (Amazon, Walmart)

Easy and low threshold

Processed within 48 hours

Crypto

Offered by some casinos

Often processed same day after approval

SC Redemption Rules to Know

Before redeeming your SC, make sure you understand these rules:

  • Playthrough Requirements Most casinos require a 1x playthrough, meaning you must wager the SC once before they become redeemable. For example, 20 SC must be used in wagers totaling 20 SC.
  • Minimum Balance Usually 50–100 SC for cash; some platforms allow lower gift card thresholds.
  • KYC Verification You must verify your identity with ID and address proof before redeeming.
  • Conversion Rates Typically, 1 SC = $1 USD — though some platforms may vary.

Tips to Use SC Wisely

  • Test games with Gold Coins first before switching to SC.
  • Use low volatility slots or 50/50 odds games to meet wagering with minimal losses.
  • Always check the Bonus Rules — some platforms restrict which games count toward playthrough.

Read: How to Maximize Your Sweeps Coins

Are Sweepstakes Winnings Taxable?

Yes - any real-world prize won via Sweeps Coins must be reported as miscellaneous income on your U.S. tax return, typically under Form 1099-MISC. Tax rates vary, but winnings over $600 may be taxed at up to 24–37%, depending on your total income.