# Sweeps Coins (SC) Explained: What They Are + How Sweepstakes Casinos Work (2026)
If you’re new to sweepstakes casinos, **Sweeps Coins (SC)** are the one thing you need to understand before you sign up anywhere.
They’re the “promo currency” used on most U.S. sweepstakes casinos — and they’re also the reason these sites can offer prize redemptions while still operating differently than real‑money online casinos.
This guide explains SC in plain English: what Sweeps Coins are, how you get them, how redemption works, and the most common mistakes that cause cashout headaches.
## Quick definition: what are Sweeps Coins?
**Sweeps Coins (SC)** are a promotional currency used in sweepstakes-style social casinos.
– You can usually earn SC for free (sign-up bonus, daily login, promos, mail-in offers, etc.).
– You can use SC to play “sweepstakes” mode.
– **SC winnings can be redeemed for prizes** once you meet the site’s rules (verification, minimum redemption, and any playthrough requirements).
Most sites treat **1 SC ≈ $1 in redemption value**, but the exact redemption rules vary by brand.
If you want the casino list, start here:
– **Sweepstakes casino directory:** /sweepstakes-casinos/
## Why sweepstakes casinos use two currencies (GC vs SC)
Most sweepstakes casinos run on **two currencies**:
1) **Gold Coins (GC)** (or similar)
– For entertainment / social play
– Not redeemable for prizes
2) **Sweeps Coins (SC)** (or similar)
– Promotional sweepstakes currency
– Used for “redeemable” play
This two-currency model is a key reason sweepstakes casinos can operate in many U.S. states, while still being distinct from traditional regulated real-money online casinos.
## How do you get Sweeps Coins (SC)?
Common ways players get SC include:
– **Sign-up bonus:** a small amount of SC when you create an account
– **Daily login bonuses:** log in each day to collect SC/GC
– **Promos & competitions:** races, challenges, tournaments, social giveaways
– **Coin bundle purchases:** buying GC bundles often includes SC as a free promotional add-on
– **Mail-in offers (AMOE):** some sites provide Alternative Method of Entry options
The mix depends on the brand, which is why we track offers on every review page.
## What does “playthrough” mean on SC?
Some sweepstakes casinos require a **playthrough (wagering) requirement** on SC bonuses before you can redeem.
Example:
– If the site has a **3x playthrough**, and you received 10 SC as a bonus, you may need to wager 30 SC in eligible games before redemption is unlocked.
Not every site has the same rules.
If you’re trying to cash out quickly, read:
– **Redemptions & cashouts guide:** /guides/redemptions/
## How does redemption work?
A typical redemption flow looks like this:
1) You play with SC and win
2) You reach the site’s **minimum redemption** threshold
3) You complete **KYC/verification** (ID + address checks)
4) You submit a redemption request
5) The casino processes the request (time varies)
Common redemption methods include:
– ACH/bank transfer
– Gift cards
– Crypto (some brands)
## Where are Sweeps Coins legal / allowed?
Sweepstakes casinos are **not available in every state**, and rules can change.
If you want the safest approach:
– Check a brand’s **Allowed States** on its review page
– Or browse by state here: **/states/**
## Common SC mistakes (and how to avoid them)
### 1) Assuming all SC is instantly redeemable
Some SC requires playthrough or verification first.
### 2) Ignoring minimum redemption thresholds
Many brands require you to reach a minimum (often $50–$100 equivalent) before redeeming.
### 3) Waiting to verify until the day you want to cash out
Verification can take time. If you plan to redeem, verify early.
### 4) Using a casino that’s not allowed in your state
Always check eligibility. We keep state availability updated in each review.
## What to read next
– **Sweepstakes casino bonuses:** /guides/bonuses/
– **Redemptions & cashouts:** /guides/redemptions/
– **Slots guide:** /guides/slots/
– **Legality overview:** /guides/legality/
– **Browse casinos:** /sweepstakes-casinos/