California has passed a law targeting online sweepstakes casinos that mimic real-money gambling. In plain terms, if a site looks and feels like an online casino but relies on a “sweepstakes” setup to offer cash-redemption play, it’s now far more likely to be restricted, blocked, or changed for California users.
This page explains what sweepstakes casinos are, what AB 831 targets in practice, what changes for California players, and what alternatives people use instead (including offshore casinos and other legal gambling options). This is informational only and not legal advice.
1
What sweepstakes casinos are and how they work
2
What California’s sweepstakes casino ban targets
3
What changes for California players going forward
4
Safer alternatives for Californians who want casino-style games
For the broader legal context around betting and gambling in the state, see our main California guide.
What Are Sweepstakes Casinos & Why Were They Popular in California?
Sweepstakes casinos are online platforms that offer slot-style and casino-style games using a promotional or sweepstakes model instead of direct real-money wagering. Rather than depositing cash to gamble, users typically buy virtual coins for entertainment and receive a separate type of credit, often called “sweeps” coins, that can be redeemed for cash prizes.
In practice, sweepstakes casinos looked and felt very similar to real online casinos. Players spun slots, played blackjack or roulette-style games, and redeemed winnings, even though the sites avoided calling the activity “gambling” under California law.
- Players purchase virtual coins or packages for entertainment purposes
- Sweepstakes credits are bundled as a promotional bonus
- Games mirror real casino products such as slots and table games
- Sweepstakes credits can be redeemed for cash or prizes
Sweepstakes casinos became popular in California because the state does not license real-money online casinos. By framing gameplay as a sweepstakes promotion, these platforms positioned themselves as a workaround in states where traditional online gambling is restricted.
For many users, the distinction was largely theoretical. Sweepstakes casinos functioned much like standard online casinos, which is why regulators and lawmakers eventually began to view them as a form of unregulated real-money gambling rather than a harmless promotional product.
For a broader look at how online gambling is regulated in California beyond sweepstakes models, see our full overview of online gambling and casinos.
California’s Sweepstakes Casino Ban (AB 831) – What the Law Targets
California’s sweepstakes casino ban is the result of Assembly Bill 831 (AB 831), a law aimed at shutting down online platforms that use sweepstakes mechanics to offer games that closely resemble real-money gambling. The focus of the law is not on casual promotions, but on sites that effectively operate as online casinos while avoiding gambling regulations by labeling gameplay as a sweepstakes.
In simple terms, if an online casino-style site allows players to buy coins, play slots or table games, and redeem winnings for cash or cash equivalents, California regulators now view that activity as gambling, regardless of how it is branded.
AB 831 was designed to close what lawmakers and regulators saw as a loophole. Sweepstakes casinos were never licensed by California, yet many functioned in ways nearly identical to real-money online casinos, offering rapid gameplay, casino-style odds, and cash redemption.
Crackdown on Simulated Online Casinos
Sweepstakes Label No Longer Protects Games
Higher Enforcement Risk for Operators
Players May Lose Access to Sweepstakes Casinos
The law targets online platforms that simulate real-money casino gambling
The practical takeaway for California players is that sweepstakes casinos are no longer a reliable or low-risk workaround. Sites that previously accepted California users may exit the state, restrict redemptions, or shut down entirely rather than face enforcement action.
For official context on California’s gambling enforcement and regulatory position, see the state’s overview from the Department of Justice.
What Changes for California Players After the Sweepstakes Ban?
Before California moved to ban sweepstakes casinos, many of these platforms openly accepted California players and promoted themselves as a safe alternative to real-money online casinos. For users, access was relatively stable and redemptions were generally available, even though the legal foundation was always shaky.
After the passage of AB 831, that environment has changed significantly. Sweepstakes casino operators now face much higher legal risk when offering casino-style games to Californians. As a result, players should expect fewer available sites, tighter restrictions, and far less certainty than in the past.
| Before the Ban | After the Ban |
|---|---|
| Sweepstakes casinos widely accepted CA players | Many operators block California or exit the state |
| Cash redemption felt routine for many users | Redemptions may be restricted or discontinued |
| Marketed as a “legal workaround” | No longer viewed as a safe or reliable loophole |
| Relatively stable product offerings | Frequent changes to games, terms, or availability |
For California players, the biggest change is uncertainty. Even if a sweepstakes casino still appears accessible today, that access can disappear quickly as operators adjust to the new legal landscape.
The key takeaway is that treating sweepstakes casinos as a long-term solution is no longer realistic. Players who continue to rely on them should be prepared for sudden blocks, account limitations, or complete shutdowns with little notice.
Are Social Casinos & Free-to-Play Apps Also Banned?
Not all casino-style apps are treated the same under California law. The sweepstakes casino ban primarily targets platforms that allow players to redeem gameplay credits for cash or cash-equivalent prizes. Purely social or free-to-play casino apps operate under a different model and are generally viewed as entertainment rather than gambling.
Social casinos typically offer free virtual coins with no option to cash out. Players may purchase additional coins for entertainment, but those coins cannot be redeemed for money or prizes with real-world value. Because there is no payout mechanism, these apps are not the main focus of California’s sweepstakes enforcement efforts.
Social casinos
Sweepstakes casinos
Key difference
The line can be confusing, which is why players should always read a platform’s terms and conditions carefully. If a site allows you to convert tokens, coins, or credits into cash or gift cards, it likely falls into sweepstakes territory and may be affected by California’s ban.
In short, purely free-to-play casino apps are usually still accessible, while sweepstakes casinos that resemble real-money gambling are now subject to much tighter restrictions.
Real-Money Alternatives: Offshore Casinos That Accept Californians
With sweepstakes casinos no longer a reliable option in California, many players who still want access to slots and table games turn to offshore online casinos that accept California residents. These platforms are not licensed in California, but they operate from offshore jurisdictions where online casino gambling is permitted.
Offshore casinos offer traditional casino-style games, including slots, blackjack, roulette, and live dealer tables. Unlike sweepstakes platforms, gameplay and payouts are structured around direct real-money wagering rather than promotional credits.
Because offshore casinos fall outside California’s regulatory framework, choosing the right site is critical. Players should focus on established operators with long track records and transparent operating practices.
- Clear offshore licensing and company history
- Several years of continuous operation
- Independent game providers and audited software
- Consistent payout history and documented player reviews
- Multiple payment options, including cards and cryptocurrency
- Responsive customer support and clear terms and conditions
| Casino | Years Operating | Casino Games | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Bovada | 10+ years | Slots, table games, live dealer | Well-established brand with strong payouts record |
| BetOnline | 20+ years | Slots, table games, live dealer | Long-running operator with broad game selection |
For a full breakdown of reputable offshore platforms that accept California players, see our dedicated offshore casinos guide.
Offshore casinos are not risk-free. Players should start with small deposits, test withdrawals early, and avoid any site that promises unrealistic bonuses or “no questions asked” cash-outs.
Other Legal Gambling Options in California (Beyond Sweepstakes)
Even with sweepstakes casinos facing new restrictions, California still offers several legal gambling options that operate under clearly defined regulatory frameworks. These alternatives are not sweepstakes-based and do not rely on promotional loopholes.
Tribal casinos
California has dozens of land-based tribal casinos that operate under tribal–state gaming compacts. These venues offer slots, table games, and poker, but not statewide online casino gambling.
Card rooms
Licensed card rooms operate throughout the state, offering poker and certain card-based table games under strict rules distinct from tribal casinos.
California Lottery
The state lottery offers draw games and scratchers regulated directly by the state, both in retail locations and limited online formats.
Horse race betting
Pari-mutuel wagering on horse racing is legal in California and can be done both in person and online through licensed advance-deposit wagering platforms.
These options follow different legal rules than sweepstakes casinos and are not affected by AB 831. They help explain why California’s sweepstakes ban does not mean that all forms of gambling, or even all online betting, are prohibited.
For Californians interested in legal betting tied to real-world outcomes, horse racing remains the clearest online option: California Horse Racing & OTB Guide.
Banking, Payouts & Risk Management With Offshore Alternatives
With sweepstakes casinos restricted in California, many players who move to offshore casino alternatives should pay close attention to how banking and payouts work. Offshore platforms offer more direct real-money play, but they also come with higher responsibility on the player’s side.
Most offshore casinos that accept Californians support a mix of traditional and modern payment methods, including Bitcoin. Deposits are usually straightforward, but withdrawals require more care and planning.
| Method | Typical Speed | Main Risk | Tips |
|---|---|---|---|
| Credit / Debit Cards | Instant deposits; slower withdrawals | Possible declines or processing delays | Use only trusted cards and avoid large balances |
| Cryptocurrency | Fast deposits and withdrawals | Price volatility and user error | Double-check wallet addresses before sending |
| Bank Wire | Several business days | Higher minimums and fees | Best for larger, planned withdrawals |
Regardless of payment method, California players should follow basic risk-management practices when using offshore casinos.
- Start with small deposits to test the platform
- Make a small withdrawal early to confirm payout reliability
- Avoid leaving large balances in your account
- Read bonus terms carefully to understand wagering requirements
- Stay away from sites advertising “no KYC” or unrealistic guarantees
Offshore casinos can provide access to real-money games, but they do not offer the same consumer protections as state-regulated markets. Managing risk carefully is essential for anyone choosing this route in California.
Staying Safe: Problem Gambling Help for Californians
The loss of sweepstakes casinos and the move toward offshore alternatives can make gambling feel more intense and less structured for some California players. Easy access to online casino games, faster payments, and fewer built-in limits can increase the risk of losing control if you’re not careful.
It’s important to recognize early warning signs of problem gambling and take action before the situation escalates.
- Chasing losses or increasing bet sizes to “win it back”
- Using money meant for rent, food, or bills to gamble
- Borrowing money or using credit to keep playing
- Hiding gambling activity from family or friends
- Feeling anxious, stressed, or irritable when not gambling
If any of these behaviors sound familiar, it may be time to pause, set stricter limits, or step away from gambling entirely. Seeking help early is far easier than trying to recover after serious financial or personal harm.
California residents have access to dedicated support resources, regardless of whether gambling takes place online or in person.
California-specific support:
- Problem Gambling Help in California – A hub of state-focused resources, helplines, and self-exclusion information.
- California Council on Problem Gambling – Offers education, confidential referrals, and support services for individuals and families affected by gambling problems.
Getting help does not mean you’ve failed. Responsible gambling is about knowing your limits, staying informed, and using support tools when you need them. If gambling ever stops being entertainment, reaching out for help is the right move.
