Important Update: Sweepstakes casinos are no longer legal in New York as of December 5, 2025. Governor Kathy Hochul signed Senate Bill S5935 into law, making dual-currency sweepstakes platforms illegal statewide, with penalties of up to $100,000 per violation.
If you’ve landed on this page searching for sweepstakes casinos in New York, it’s important to understand that the legal landscape has changed significantly.
In December 2025, New York officially prohibited sweepstakes-style platforms that use dual-currency systems allowing virtual coins to be redeemed for cash prizes. This decision places New York among a growing list of states taking direct regulatory action against this model.
This guide explains what changed, why the ban was enacted, and what it means for New York residents in 2026. Most importantly, it outlines the legal alternatives still available for enjoying casino-style entertainment online—without risking account closures or forfeited prizes.
Whether you previously played on well-known sweepstakes platforms or are simply exploring your options as a New York resident, this article provides a clear, up-to-date overview of the current rules and compliant paths forward.
Why Are Sweepstakes Casinos Banned in New York?
The short answer is straightforward: New York lawmakers determined that sweepstakes casinos meet the legal definition of illegal gambling under state law, regardless of how operators structured their so-called “free-to-play” models.
On December 5, 2025, Governor Kathy Hochul signed Senate Bill S5935A into law. The ban took effect immediately, with no grace period for operators or players.
Legislative support was overwhelming. The bill passed the New York Assembly by a vote of 141–0 and the Senate 57–2 in June 2025, signaling near-universal agreement that the sweepstakes casino model was no longer acceptable under state law.
What the Law Actually Prohibits
Senate Bill S5935A specifically targets online platforms that operate using a dual-currency model. In practical terms, this model works as follows:
| Currency Type | Purpose | Legal Treatment in NY |
|---|---|---|
| Gold Coins | Entertainment-only gameplay | Permitted (no redemption value) |
| Sweeps Coins | Redeemable for cash or prizes | Prohibited |
This structure was used by many sweepstakes platforms to argue that they were not offering gambling, since Sweeps Coins could theoretically be obtained without making a purchase.
New York regulators rejected that interpretation, concluding that the presence of a redeemable virtual currency tied to casino-style games violates existing gambling statutes.
Attorney General Letitia James (June 2025):
“Online sweepstakes casinos are illegal, dangerous, and can seriously harm consumers financially.”
Timeline: How the Ban Unfolded
| Date | Event |
|---|---|
| January 2025 | New York Gaming Commission Chair Brian O’Dwyer publicly states that sweepstakes operators are “running afoul” of state law. |
| March 2025 | Senator Joseph Addabbo introduces S5935, formally defining and banning online sweepstakes casino platforms. |
| June 6, 2025 | Attorney General Letitia James issues cease-and-desist letters to 26 sweepstakes casino operators. |
| June 17, 2025 | Senate Bill S5935 passes both chambers of the New York Legislature with near-unanimous support. |
| December 5, 2025 | Governor Hochul signs the bill into law; the ban takes effect immediately. |
Penalties for Violations
New York’s sweepstakes casino ban includes strict penalties designed to discourage both operators and supporting services from violating the law.
- Fines ranging from $10,000 to $100,000 per violation
- Permanent loss of eligibility for any New York gaming licenses
- Liability for third-party services that support prohibited platforms
Notably, enforcement is not limited to casino operators alone. The law also applies to:
- Payment processors
- Geolocation and verification providers
- Advertising networks and media affiliates
Which Sweepstakes Casinos Left New York?
Following the cease-and-desist campaign and legislative approval in mid-2025, most major sweepstakes casino operators voluntarily exited the New York market before the final bill was signed.
| Platform | Status / Notes |
|---|---|
| Chumba Casino | VGW-owned; Sweeps Coin play halted June 2025 |
| LuckyLand Slots | VGW-owned; exited alongside Chumba |
| Global Poker | VGW-owned; no longer accepts NY players |
| WOW Vegas | Fully exited the New York market |
| Pulsz Casino | No longer operates in New York |
| Stake.us | Crypto-focused platform; exited NY |
| High 5 Casino (Sweeps) | Sweeps functionality disabled; social play only |
| Funzpoints | Exited April 2025, prior to formal ban |
| McLuck | No longer available to NY residents |
| Fliff | Received cease-and-desist; exited NY |
Legal Online Gaming Options for New York Players in 2026
While sweepstakes casinos offering cash or prize redemption are no longer permitted in New York, residents still have several fully legal ways to enjoy casino-style games and online wagering.
Online Sports Betting
Status: Legal in New York
Minimum Age: 21+
Mobile sports betting has been fully legal in New York since January 2022. The state now operates one of the largest regulated sports betting markets in the United States.
Licensed Sportsbook Apps in New York
- DraftKings Sportsbook
- FanDuel Sportsbook
- BetMGM
- Caesars Sportsbook
- ESPN BET
- Fanatics Sportsbook
- bet365
- BallyBet
Other Legal Gambling Options
| Activity | Legal Status | Minimum Age |
|---|---|---|
| Land-Based Casinos | Legal (28 locations statewide) | 21+ |
| State Lottery | Legal (Powerball, Mega Millions, scratch tickets) | 18+ |
| Horse Racing (Pari-Mutuel) | Legal | 18+ |
| Daily Fantasy Sports | Legal (regulated operators) | 18+ |
| Online Poker | Not legal | N/A |
| Online Casinos (iGaming) | Not legal | N/A |
Will Real-Money Online Casinos Ever Be Legal in New York?
The possibility of legal real-money online casinos in New York remains an active topic of debate. Analysts estimate the state is losing billions in potential tax revenue to neighboring states such as New Jersey, Pennsylvania, and Connecticut, where online casinos are already legal.
Current Legislative Efforts
Senator Joseph Addabbo Jr. has been the primary advocate for regulated online casino legalization in New York. In January 2025, he introduced Senate Bill S2614, which proposed:
- Authorization of up to 31 online casino licenses
- A proposed 30.5% tax rate on online casino revenue
- Regulatory oversight by the New York State Gaming Commission
- Dedicated funding for problem gambling education and treatment
Realistic Timeline
Even if online casino legislation passes the state legislature, implementation would likely require a voter referendum. As a result, the earliest realistic launch for legal online casinos in New York would be late 2026 or 2027.
In the interim, New York is expected to award three new full-scale casino licenses in the downstate region, with potential locations including:
- Queens
- The Bronx
- Long Island
These developments may influence how quickly lawmakers revisit online casino legalization.
Frequently Asked Questions
Note: FAQ schema markup is recommended for this section.
Are sweepstakes casinos legal in New York?
No. As of December 5, 2025, sweepstakes casinos that use a dual-currency system (Gold Coins plus redeemable Sweeps Coins) are banned in New York.
Governor Kathy Hochul signed Senate Bill 5935 into law, making it illegal to operate, promote, or support these platforms within the state.
Operators face civil penalties ranging from $10,000 to $100,000 per violation, and supporting services may also be subject to enforcement actions.
Can I still play at social casinos in New York?
Yes. Free-to-play social casinos that do not offer any form of cash or prize redemption remain legal in New York.
These platforms operate purely for entertainment purposes using virtual currency with no monetary value. Most require players to be at least 18 years old.
What’s the difference between a sweepstakes casino and a social casino?
The key difference is cash redemption.
- Sweepstakes casinos: Used a dual-currency model where Sweeps Coins could be redeemed for cash or prizes. These platforms are now banned in New York.
- Social casinos: Use virtual currency strictly for entertainment, with no cash-out or prize redemption. These remain legal in New York.
When will online casinos be legal in New York?
There is no confirmed timeline. Senator Joseph Addabbo has introduced multiple online casino legalization bills, including S2614 in January 2025.
Any legalization effort would likely require a voter referendum. The earliest realistic estimate is 2026 or 2027, though passage is not guaranteed.
Is online sports betting legal in New York?
Yes. Mobile sports betting has been legal in New York since January 2022.
Licensed operators include DraftKings, FanDuel, BetMGM, and Caesars. Players must be 21 years or older. Betting on in-state college teams is prohibited.
What happened to my account at Chumba, Pulsz, or WOW Vegas?
Major sweepstakes operators began exiting New York in mid-2025 after receiving cease-and-desist letters and in anticipation of the legislative ban.
Players with remaining balances should have received instructions for redeeming eligible funds before service was discontinued. If you believe an issue remains unresolved, contact the platform’s customer support directly.
Responsible Gambling Resources
Whether you’re playing at social casinos, betting on sports, or visiting land-based casinos, responsible play is essential. If gambling is causing stress or financial difficulty, confidential help is available.
| Resource | Contact Information | Availability |
|---|---|---|
| New York State HOPEline | Call: 1-877-8-HOPENY (1-877-846-7369) Text: HOPENY (467369) |
24/7 · Free · Confidential |
| National Council on Problem Gambling | 1-800-522-4700 · ncpgambling.org | 24/7 |
The Bottom Line
The era of sweepstakes casinos in New York has officially ended. While this may be disappointing for players who previously used platforms such as Chumba Casino or WOW Vegas, the legal reality is now clear and firmly enforced.
Today, New York residents still have legitimate options:
- Free-to-play social casinos for entertainment
- Fully regulated mobile sports betting apps
- 28 land-based casinos operating statewide
Momentum toward regulated online casinos continues, but legalization is not guaranteed and remains subject to legislative approval and potential voter referendum.
Sweepedia will continue to monitor New York gambling laws and update this guide as the legal landscape evolves.