Hi Top Dollar:

I must admit -- I not had a jackpot larger than $3,000. However ... I have never signed a form ... and I have always been paid in cash. There is likely a point where they issue a cashier's check ... but I'm not sure about the threshold.

I think there is a limit on the funds going over the border ... however, you should be able to deposit funds into your US bank account or mail a check to yourself.

In Ontario, Canada, the government (Ontario Lottery Gaming Corporation) runs all of the casinos in the Province. Lottery winnings are also non-taxable.

Technically ... as a US-resident, I guess you are expected to claim big wins in your income -- but I wonder if the IRS will late you claim Canadian losses? I have my doubts.

I think tracking your $$ meticulously is not a bad idea ... you can see the machines are are ahead of over the long run -- and which ones drain you the most.

/\/\/\/\ the Shamus /\/\/\/\

PS - Sorry I didn't get back to you on a timely basis.