A
AMOE (Alternate Method of Entry)
A free way to receive Sweeps Coins without making a purchase. Under US sweepstakes law, every sweepstakes casino must provide a free entry method. The most common AMOE is a mail-in request, though some platforms also offer social media giveaways or daily login bonuses. See our guide on mail-in entry for step-by-step instructions.
Auto-Play
A feature that lets the game automatically spin a set number of times at a fixed play amount. Auto-play is available on most slot titles and can usually be configured with loss limits and win thresholds to stop automatically.
B
Bankroll
The total amount of virtual currency (Gold Coins or Sweeps Coins) you have available to play with. Good bankroll management means setting limits on how much you play per session and not chasing losses. See our responsible gaming page for guidance.
Bonus
Any reward or incentive offered by a sweepstakes casino. Bonuses can include no-purchase signup offers, daily login rewards, purchase match bonuses, and promotional giveaways. See our bonus tracker for current offers across all platforms.
Bonus Drop Code
A limited-time promotional code that unlocks additional Gold Coins or Sweeps Coins when entered. These are often shared on social media, in email newsletters, or during live streams. They typically expire within hours and have a limited number of uses.
C
Cashier (Purchase Portal)
The section of a sweepstakes casino where you can purchase Gold Coin packages (which may include bonus Sweeps Coins). This is not a traditional banking page since sweepstakes casinos use a virtual currency model.
Comp Points
Loyalty rewards earned through gameplay activity. Some platforms (like High 5 Casino's Diamonds) use a comp point system that can be exchanged for Gold Coins, Sweeps Coins, or other rewards within their VIP program.
D
Daily Login Bonus
Free Gold Coins (and sometimes Sweeps Coins) awarded simply for logging into your account each day. Most sweepstakes casinos offer this, though the amount varies significantly. Some platforms increase the reward for consecutive daily logins.
Dual Currency Model
The core operating structure of sweepstakes casinos. Players use two separate currencies: Gold Coins (for free play with no cash value) and Sweeps Coins (which can be redeemed for real prizes). This model allows platforms to operate legally under US sweepstakes law.
E
E-wallet
A digital payment method used for purchases or receiving redemptions. Common e-wallets at sweepstakes casinos include Skrill and PayPal. E-wallet redemptions are often faster than bank transfers. See our redemption speeds comparison for processing times by method.
F
First Purchase Bonus
A special offer for new players making their first Gold Coin package purchase. These typically include extra Gold Coins and bonus Sweeps Coins beyond the standard package value. First purchase bonuses are often the best value available on a platform. Track current offers on our bonus tracker.
Free Play
Playing games using Gold Coins, which have no real cash value. Free play is always available at sweepstakes casinos without any purchase required. This is distinct from playing with Sweeps Coins, which carry redeemable value.
Free Spins (Free SC Plays)
Complimentary spins on specific slot games using Sweeps Coins, awarded as part of a promotion or bonus. Unlike free Gold Coin play, these carry real value since any SC winnings can eventually be redeemed. Some platforms call these "Free SC Plays" or "Bonus Spins."
G
Gold Coins (GC)
The free-play virtual currency at sweepstakes casinos. Gold Coins are used purely for entertainment and cannot be redeemed for real prizes. They are given generously through daily login bonuses, social media promotions, and as the primary component of purchase packages.
Gift Card Redemption
A redemption method where Sweeps Coins are exchanged for retail gift cards (such as Amazon, Visa, or store-specific cards). Many platforms use PrizeOut for gift card fulfillment. Gift card redemptions often have lower minimums and faster processing than bank transfers.
H
House Edge
The mathematical advantage the platform has over the player on any given game, expressed as a percentage. A game with a 96% RTP has a 4% house edge. Understanding house edge helps you choose games that give you more play time for your Sweeps Coins.
High Volatility
A characteristic of slot games that pay out less frequently but in larger amounts when wins do occur. High-volatility slots can go through long dry spells but offer the potential for significant payouts. They require a larger bankroll to play comfortably.
I
In-Game Currency
Any virtual currency used within a sweepstakes casino. This includes Gold Coins, Sweeps Coins, and platform-specific currencies like Fortune Coins (FC), Crown Coins (CC), WOW Coins, or Diamonds. Each platform may use different names but the dual-currency model remains the same.
J
Jackpot (Progressive)
A prize pool that grows each time the game is played and not won. Progressive jackpots can reach very large amounts. Some sweepstakes casinos like American Luck offer 40+ progressive jackpot slots. The jackpot resets to a base amount after being won.
K
KYC (Know Your Customer)
The identity verification process required before you can redeem Sweeps Coins for real prizes. You'll typically need to provide a government-issued photo ID, proof of address, and confirm your date of birth. This is a legal requirement to prevent fraud and ensure you meet age and location eligibility. See our KYC verification guide.
L
Live Dealer
Games hosted by real human dealers streamed in real time. Players interact through a digital interface while watching a live video feed. Available at platforms like Chumba Casino and Stake.us, live dealer games typically include blackjack, roulette, and baccarat.
Low Volatility
A characteristic of slot games that pay out frequently but in smaller amounts. Low-volatility slots are ideal for players who prefer steady, consistent play sessions and want to maximize their time with a smaller bankroll.
Loyalty Program
A rewards system that gives players benefits based on their activity level. Programs vary by platform and can include tiered VIP levels, increased daily bonuses, exclusive promotions, and faster redemption processing. See our Stake.us VIP guide for an example.
M
Mail-In Entry
A free method to receive Sweeps Coins by mailing a handwritten request to the sweepstakes casino operator. This is the primary AMOE (Alternate Method of Entry) required by US sweepstakes law. Each platform has specific format requirements for mail-in requests. See our mail-in entry guide for addresses and templates.
Minimum Redemption
The smallest amount of Sweeps Coins you can redeem at once. Minimums vary by platform and redemption method. Gift card minimums are typically lower (10-50 SC) than bank transfer minimums (50-100 SC). Check our redemption comparison table for current minimums.
N
No-Purchase Bonus
A free reward given to new players when they create an account, without requiring any purchase. This typically includes both Gold Coins and Sweeps Coins. No-purchase bonuses are a fundamental part of the sweepstakes model, as US sweepstakes law requires a free method of entry. View all current no-purchase bonuses on our bonus tracker.
No-Purchase-Necessary
The legal principle that sweepstakes must not require a purchase to participate. This is the foundation of the sweepstakes casino business model and is why platforms must offer free Sweeps Coins through methods like mail-in entries and no-purchase signup bonuses.
O
Originals (Provably Fair Games)
Exclusive in-house games developed by a sweepstakes casino platform rather than third-party providers. Platforms like Stake.us and Shuffle.us are known for their originals, which often include crash games, dice, mines, plinko, and other simple-mechanic games. Many originals use provably fair technology for transparency.
P
Playthrough Requirement
The number of times you must play through your Sweeps Coins before they become eligible for redemption. For example, a 1x playthrough on 10 SC means you must play 10 SC worth of games. Most sweepstakes casinos require a 1x playthrough, though some (like Stake.us at 3x) require more. Also known as a wagering requirement.
Promo Code
A text code entered during account registration or in the cashier to unlock additional bonuses. Promo codes are typically provided by affiliate sites like SweepstakeSites. See our promo codes page for verified, current codes across all platforms.
Progressive Jackpot
Provably Fair
A cryptographic system that allows players to independently verify that a game outcome was not manipulated. The platform publishes a hash before each round, and after the round completes, you can check that the result matches. Common on original games at crypto-focused platforms like Shuffle.us and Stake.us.
Purchase Package
A bundle of Gold Coins available for purchase, often including bonus Sweeps Coins as a free promotional item. Purchase packages are the primary revenue model for sweepstakes casinos. Technically, you are purchasing Gold Coins, and the Sweeps Coins are included as a complimentary sweepstakes entry.
R
Rakeback
A percentage of your play returned to you as a bonus, regardless of whether you win or lose. Stake.us offers 3.5% rakeback with promo code MAXBET, meaning you get back 3.5% of all Sweeps Coins you play. This is similar to cashback programs at traditional loyalty programs.
RTP (Return to Player)
The theoretical percentage of all played amounts that a game will return to players over time. A game with 96% RTP will, on average, return $96 for every $100 played. Higher RTP games give players better long-term value. RTPs for specific games are covered in our game guides.
Redemption
The process of converting your Sweeps Coins into real prizes (cash or gift cards). Before redeeming, you must meet playthrough requirements and complete KYC verification. See our redemption tracker for verified payout times.
Restricted States
US states where a particular sweepstakes casino is not available. Common restricted states include Washington, Idaho, and Nevada. Each platform has its own list of restricted states. Check our state legality map and legal states guide for details.
S
Sweeps Coins (SC)
The premium virtual currency used at sweepstakes casinos. Unlike Gold Coins, Sweeps Coins can be redeemed for real prizes (cash or gift cards) once playthrough requirements are met. They are obtained through no-purchase bonuses, mail-in entries, promotional offers, or as part of purchase packages.
Sweepstakes Law
The body of US federal and state law governing sweepstakes promotions. For a sweepstakes to be legal, it must include three elements: a prize, chance, and no purchase necessary to enter. Sweepstakes casinos operate by structuring their model around these requirements, offering free entry methods alongside optional purchases.
Social Casino
A platform that offers casino-style games played with virtual currency rather than real money. Sweepstakes casinos are a specific type of social casino that also includes a sweepstakes component (Sweeps Coins) enabling real prize redemptions. See our ranked list of sweepstakes casino sites.
Stake Cash
The name Stake.us uses for its Sweeps Coins equivalent. Stake Cash (SC) functions identically to Sweeps Coins on other platforms and can be redeemed for real prizes after meeting a 3x playthrough requirement. See our Stake.us review.
Slot
A game that uses spinning reels with various symbols. Matching symbols across paylines triggers a payout. Slots are the most popular game type at sweepstakes casinos, typically making up 80-90% of the game library. They come in various formats including classic 3-reel, video 5-reel, megaways, and cluster pays.
T
Terms of Service
The legal agreement between you and the sweepstakes casino platform. The ToS covers eligibility, account rules, bonus terms, redemption conditions, and dispute resolution. Always read the ToS before signing up, particularly the sections on playthrough requirements and redemption policies.
Tournament
A competitive event where players compete against each other for prizes based on a leaderboard. Tournaments may track total wins, biggest wins, or most spins within a time period. Platforms like Shuffle.us and Stake.us run regular tournaments with Sweeps Coin prizes.
V
VIP Program
A tiered rewards system that provides increasing benefits based on your activity level. VIP perks can include higher daily bonuses, faster redemption processing, exclusive promotions, and dedicated support. See our Stake.us VIP program guide for an in-depth breakdown.
Volatility
A measure of the risk level in a slot game. High-volatility games pay out larger amounts less frequently, while low-volatility games pay smaller amounts more often. Your preference should match your bankroll and play style. See High Volatility and Low Volatility for more detail.
W
Wagering Requirement
See Playthrough Requirement. The terms are used interchangeably across the industry.
Welcome Bonus
The combined offer new players receive when signing up at a sweepstakes casino, typically including a no-purchase bonus and a first purchase bonus. Welcome bonuses vary significantly across platforms. Track the latest offers on our bonus tracker.