South Carolina Online Casino Sites in 2024
Currently, real-money online casinos are not legal in South Carolina. But locals can still enjoy legal online casino betting with sweepstakes casinos. In this guide, we’ll explore the best sites. We’ll also cover the latest updates on gambling laws in South Carolina and explain how to handle your winnings responsibly. Ready to dive in? Let’s get started!
🔑 Key Takeaways
- Find out why online casino betting remains illegal in South Carolina.
- Learn how to handle your gambling winnings properly in South Carolina.
- Discover the best SC sweepstakes casinos to legally play slots and table games.
Best Sweepstakes Online Casinos in South Carolina
While real-money online casinos and land-based casinos are not authorized in South Carolina, your only option is sweepstakes casinos for online gambling. As these platforms don’t involve real money directly with the use of virtual coins, SC residents can play slots and table games.
We have a guide on the best US sweepstakes casinos you can check for reliable platforms. Meanwhile, below are the top sites available in South Carolina for 2024:
Overview of South Carolina Online Gambling
South Carolina has some of the strictest gambling laws in the US, but there are still a few legal options available for players. Here’s an overview of what’s allowed and what’s not in the Palmetto State:
| Gambling Type | Legal? | Current Situation | Legal Age |
|---|---|---|---|
| Online Casinos | No | Real-money online casinos are prohibited, and illegal gambling can result in fines or imprisonment. | — |
| Lottery | Yes | The state-run lottery offers games like Powerball and Mega Millions, with proceeds funding education programs. | 18 |
| Charitable Gaming | Yes | Bingo and raffles for charity are legal with a license from the South Carolina Department of Revenue (SCDOR). | 18 |
| Online Sports Betting | No | Online sports betting is not yet legal, though neighboring states are considering legislation. | — |
| Sweepstakes Casino | Yes | Players can enjoy online casino games by betting with virtual currencies. | 18 |
| Land-Based Casinos | No | There are no tribal casinos in South Carolina, only sweepstakes platforms operating legally. | — |
Reporting Taxable Winnings in South Carolina
You have to pay income tax when you win at a casino in South Carolina. Like most other US states, it’s a withholding tax, so you’ll receive Form W-2G from the casino if your winnings are up to:
- $1,200 for slot or bingo games
- $600 for all others
After completing the form, you return it to the gambling establishment. However, note that you must still report your winnings on Form 1040. Plus, there is a state tax to file with Form SC1040.
The good thing is that you can file online via the SC Department of Revenue website. The tax will be calculated on your total income, including other sources.
History of Gambling in South Carolina
You may wonder if gambling in South Carolina has always been as restricted as it is currently. Well, here’s a walkthrough of the state’s gambling history to see how the situation has evolved over the years:
- Early 1700s: Gambling on horse races became popular in the area now known as South Carolina.
- 1712: Authorities attempt to control the growing gambling industry with the Act Against Deceitful, Disorderly, and Excessive Gaming, though enforcement is largely unsuccessful.
- 1734: The first formal racetrack opens in Charles Town (now Charleston).
- 1799: Local lotteries become popular. Notably, Denmark Vesey (Telemaque), a formerly enslaved person, wins $1,500 in a lottery, allowing him to buy his freedom.
- 1802: Public opinion turns against gambling, leading to the prohibition of gambling at tables.
- 1846: Lotteries are banned in South Carolina.
- 1976: Charitable bingo is legalized, marking the first legal gambling activity in over a century.
- 1980s-1990s: Video poker terminals become popular, operating in a legal gray area by not paying out cash directly from the machines. Instead, attendants hand over winnings.
- 2000: The state bans video poker machines, ending their popularity.
- 2001: The state establishes the South Carolina Education Lottery, legalizing a new form of gambling for educational funding.
- 2004: Laws are expanded to include electronic bingo as charitable games.
- 2014: Charitable gaming laws are amended to allow for raffles.
So, What’s Next for Online Casinos in South Carolina?
Real-money online casinos remain off-limits in South Carolina, and there’s little indication that this will change anytime soon. While neighboring North Carolina legalized online sports betting in 2024, South Carolina hasn’t made similar moves. Discussions about a sports betting bill, HB 3749, have gained some attention, but support remains weak among lawmakers.
If sports betting faces challenges, the path for online casinos is even tougher. For now, South Carolinians can turn to sweepstakes casinos as a legal and fun way to enjoy online gaming. Stick to these alternatives for a safe and compliant gaming experience!
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References
- Individual Income Tax South Carolina — Retrieved on November 22, 2024
- 2023-2024 Bill 3095 SC General Assembly — Retrieved on November 22, 2024
- SC Bill to Legalize Gambling — Retrieved on November 22, 2024
Frequently Asked Questions
No, South Carolina does not permit tribal casinos under its strict gambling laws.
No, it’s currently prohibited, with no legislation passed to legalize it.
Yes, South Carolinians can legally participate in the state lottery, charitable gaming like bingo and raffles, and play at sweepstakes casinos.
Engaging in illegal online gambling in South Carolina can result in fines of up to $1,000, up to 30 days in jail, or both, as outlined in the state’s gambling laws.