Question About Casino Check Writing Policies

Question

Hi, fellow travelers and gamblers,

I get this is the Vegas Forum, but almost no one replies to questions in the AC forum and the question applies to anyone that gambles really in AC or LV.

I’m planning a week-long trip to Atlantic City this year and will be spending quite a bit of time on the slots each day. To make things easier, I’m hoping to write a check at one or more of the casinos while I’m there. We set a limit of about 1,200 a day for slots.

Does anyone have experience with the check writing policies at the Atlantic City casinos? Specifically, I’d like to know:

Which casinos accept personal checks?

Are there any fees for cashing checks?

Is there a limit to the amount you can write?

How long does the process usually take?

I’d be writing a decent-sized check, so any insights or tips would be greatly appreciated! Also, if there are other payment or funding options you’d recommend for slot players, feel free to share.

Thanks in advance for your advice and help!

Happy spinning.

Answer

Great question! Writing checks at casinos is a common practice in both Atlantic City and Las Vegas, though policies can vary from property to property. Here are the main things you should know about check writing policies at Atlantic City casinos, as well as a few tips to make the process easier:

Which Casinos Accept Personal Checks?
- Most Atlantic City casinos accept personal checks, but it’s always a good idea to call ahead and confirm, especially if you plan to write a large check. Some of the larger casinos, such as Borgata, Tropicana, and Caesars, have been known to accept checks, but they will often have stricter requirements depending on the size of the check and your history with the casino.
- Casinos typically require you to have an active player’s club card or an account with the casino. It’s also worth noting that you may need to present a valid ID (e.g., driver’s license) to write the check.
Are There Any Fees for Cashing Checks?
- Most casinos will not charge a fee for cashing a check, but this depends on the specific casino. However, if your check is bounced (e.g., insufficient funds), you may be charged a fee, and the casino may refuse to cash future checks.
- Some casinos may charge a fee if you write a check at a casino cage or other non-standard location, so it's a good idea to ask about any potential fees up front.
Is There a Limit to the Amount You Can Write?
- The amount you can write for a check varies by casino. Generally, the limit is $1,000 to $1,200 per day, which aligns with your planned slot limit. However, for larger checks, casinos may require additional verification or have a lower limit for checks written to the casino cage.
- Some casinos may allow higher amounts with pre-approval, so it’s worth checking with the casino beforehand if you plan to write checks for amounts greater than $1,500.
How Long Does the Process Usually Take?
- The check cashing process can take anywhere from a few minutes to 15-20 minutes, depending on the amount, the casino’s check verification process, and the casino’s current crowd levels. If you are writing a check for a larger amount, the process could take a little longer, especially if the casino needs to verify your identity or check your credit history with them.
- Once approved, you’ll usually get cash to use for your gambling or a casino credit marker for use at the slots or tables.

Other Payment or Funding Options: If you’re concerned about the check writing process or don’t want to carry large sums of money, here are a few alternatives:

Casino Markers: These are essentially lines of credit offered by the casino that allow you to borrow money to gamble. You will need to apply for this line of credit in advance and provide financial information, but it can be a convenient option for larger amounts.
ATM Withdrawals: While ATM fees can be high, they are a quick and easy way to access cash for gambling. Be mindful of the withdrawal limits per day, which may vary by ATM.
Prepaid Cards: Some casinos accept prepaid cards, which can be a secure and easy way to fund your gambling without writing checks. These cards can be loaded with funds and used like a regular debit card.

Overall, writing checks at Atlantic City casinos is fairly straightforward, and most casinos will be accommodating as long as you have a casino account and a valid ID. Be sure to confirm the specifics with the casino beforehand, especially if you’re planning to write larger checks.

Good luck with your trip and happy gambling!