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Tuesday, Aug. 26, 2025

Can you receive jail time for failing to pay a gambling debt in Las Vegas?

Annie Vong, The Nevada Independent
yes

Casinos will issue “markers,” which serve as a loan from the casino, with a specific date to pay back the money borrowed.

Unpaid markers under $1,200 are a misdemeanor, however, unpaid markers over $1200 is a felony, punishable by 1 to 4 years in a Nevada prison.

Not paying casino markers are treated the same as issuing a check without sufficient money or credit.

Casinos will send demand letters, requiring the payment to be made before pressing charges.

In addition, three misdemeanors for unpaid gambling debts, even in other states, could constitute a felony.

This fact brief is responsive to conversations such as this one.

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The Nevada Independent is a nonpartisan, nonprofit news and opinion website founded in 2017 by veteran political journalist and commentator Jon Ralston. The site and its supporting channels are focused on ethical, unbiased and transparent journalism. In general, we aim to gather and disseminate important public information and increase civic engagement. We are supported by corporate donations, memberships, event ticket sales and sponsorships and foundation grants. We disclose all our members and donors. Donors have no influence over our content, ever. The Nevada Independent is the dba for Nevada News Bureau, Inc., a 501(c)3 nonprofit founded in 2010 by Elizabeth Thompson, who now serves as one of The Nevada Independent's managing directors and its Editor.

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