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Online Casinos in South Carolina — What’s Legal in 2025
Real-money online casinos aren’t available in South Carolina yet, but you still have legal options—the state lottery, charitable bingo/raffles, and The Big “M” Casino cruise in international waters. Many players enjoy social/sweepstakes sites with virtual coins and prize redemptions; they aren’t state-regulated iGaming, so check the T&Cs.
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Amex, Bank Transfer, Bitcoin, Cheque, Mastercard, VisaSouth Carolina Gambling at a Glance
If you’re after a peaceful alternative to the busy casino hubs, South Carolina might be just what you’re looking for. The state currently has no commercial land-based casinos, which helps preserve its calm and traditional atmosphere. With its strong cultural values and cautious approach to gambling, change here happens thoughtfully and at its own pace.
When it comes to online gaming, South Carolina follows the same careful path. There’s no state licensing yet for real-money online casinos, but players can still enjoy lottery systems and draw-style games often promoted as "online games".
Is Online Casino Gambling Legal in South Carolina?
As of 2025, no. State law prohibits various forms of gambling and does not authorize or regulate real-money online casinos. There is also no state regulator issuing licenses for iCasino because the activity isn’t permitted.
What you can do legally in South Carolina
South Carolina Education Lottery: Enjoy draw games and instant tickets available through licensed retailers across the state.
Charitable Bingo and Raffles: Take part in community events and fundraisers through authorized bingo games and raffles.
The Big “M” Casino cruise (Little River): Experience live casino gaming and entertainment once the ship reaches international waters.
What’s not available (for now)
State-Licensed Online Casinos: There are currently no locally regulated real-money online casinos, but players can explore social and sweepstakes-style casino platforms in the meantime.
Online Sports Betting: Sports wagering isn’t authorized yet, though discussions about regulation continue to gain attention.
Minimum Ages
Activity
Minimum age
Notes
State lottery
18+
Tickets sold at retail locations
Charitable bingo/raffles
18+
Check event/operator rules
The Big “M” Casino cruise
21+
Valid ID required
State-regulated online betting
N/A
Not authorized
Your Legal Options in South Carolina
State Lottery
Operating since 2002 to support education funding. Includes multi-state draws (e.g., Mega Millions, Powerball) and instant games sold at retail. “Online games” language in lottery regulations relates to lottery operations, not consumer iCasino play.
Charitable Bingo & Raffles
Permitted under state law with licensing, prize caps, and operating restrictions. Historically, bingo halls have operated in places like Rock Hill with limited hours and charity-focused proceeds.
The Big "M" Casino (Cruise)
South Carolina’s only casino-style play accessible from in-state is by boat. The ship sails from Little River and opens its casino floor in international waters. Expect 21+ age policy, scheduled sailings, and limited daily hours.
Social & Sweepstakes Casinos: What They Are (and What They Aren’t)
Social and sweepstakes sites emulate casino-style games using virtual currencies:
Gameplay Model
Social and sweepstakes sites emulate casino-style games using virtual currencies.
Dual-Currency System
Players typically purchase Gold Coins for entertainment play and receive or use separate Sweeps Coins to enter sweepstakes that may be redeemable for prizes.
Promotions & Eligibility
Platforms promote “no purchase necessary” entry paths and other promotional rules.
💡 Key Points
These sites are not state-regulated real-money casinos.
Legality hinges on promotional mechanics and compliance; always review eligibility, prize redemption terms, ID checks, and withdrawal rules.
Treat virtual-currency play as entertainment, not an investment.
What About Online Sports Betting?
South Carolina has not authorized state-regulated online sports betting. Lawmakers have discussed proposals in recent sessions, including constitutional-amendment concepts and bills that would clarify paid games, but none have created a live market yet. If that changes, this section should be updated with bill numbers, status, and plain-English summaries.
Are There Casinos in South Carolina? Nearby Options
South Carolina doesn’t have commercial, land-based casinos. If you want a classic casino floor without leaving the state, your best bet is The Big “M” Casino out of Little River, which opens its tables and slots once the ship reaches international waters.
Many South Carolinians also make quick trips to North Carolina for tribal gaming, think Catawba/Two Kings and other NC tribal properties. If you’re after a full brick-and-mortar experience, crossing the border is often the easiest route.
Taxes & Player Safety
Taxes
Gambling winnings can be taxable at the federal level (IRS) and may have state implications. Keep records and consult official resources. This page does not provide tax advice.
Consumer Safety
Be skeptical of unlicensed operators, ambiguous claims of legality, and unclear terms. Check ID verification, withdrawal processing, and dispute procedures.
VPNs
Masking your location does not change the legality of an activity in South Carolina and may violate operator terms.
Responsible Gambling in South Carolina
If gambling isn’t fun anymore, get help:
National Helpline: 1-800-522-4700 (24/7, confidential).
In-state resources: South Carolina’s Department of Alcohol and Other Drug Abuse Services (DAODAS) and affiliated providers can offer information and referrals.
Use tools like deposit limits, time-outs, and self-exclusion to keep play in control.
South Carolina Online Casino FAQ
Are real-money online casinos legal in South Carolina?
No. The state has not authorized or licensed real-money online casinos for consumers.
When the lottery says “online games,” does that mean online casinos?
No. In South Carolina, “online” refers to lottery systems/draw games administration—not consumer iCasino play.
Can I use social/sweepstakes casinos from South Carolina?
Many sites accept SC players under a promotional model with virtual coins and prize redemptions. They are not state-regulated iGaming; read the Terms carefully.
What’s the minimum gambling age?
Generally 18+ for lottery and charity bingo; 21+ for The Big “M” Casino cruise. Always confirm with the operator.
Is online sports betting legal?
Not at this time. If legislation advances, we’ll update this page with details.
Does South Carolina have any casinos?
No commercial casinos in the state. The casino cruise sails from Little River; nearby, North Carolina offers tribal casino options.
Can a VPN make online casinos legal to use from SC?
No. A VPN doesn’t change state law and may breach operator terms.
How are gambling winnings taxed?
Winnings can be taxable. Consult IRS guidance and the South Carolina Department of Revenue for official information.
Where can I get help for problem gambling?
Call 1-800-522-4700 or contact in-state services via DAODAS for confidential support.
What would have to happen for online casinos to become legal?
Lawmakers would need to pass enabling legislation, and some proposals could require a constitutional amendment. Timelines depend on the legislative process.
