Casino Cage

A cashier’s cage is responsible for exchanging cash for casino tokens. Gaming cage
workers or cage cashiers count money at casinos and other gaming establishments. In some
casinos and cardrooms, players may be permitted to purchase chips at the casino table. Players
will cash in chips at the casino cashier cage.
The cage is commonly used as a cashier. Its primary purpose is to provide customers with
an outlet where they can exchange cash for chips while they play, and where they can cash in
their chips when they are finished with their gaming session.
Cage cashiers, also called cashiers, casino cashiers, or casino cage cashiers work in the
cage area of a casino, where money, casino chips, credit chips and other paperwork are
circulated. They sell gambling chips, tokens, or tickets to casino patrons, pay out jackpots, and
manage credit applications.
Casino cage cashiers are permitted to accept tips. Some customers are generous enough
to tip, while others are not. The tips are split among all cashiers.
In order to be a cage cashier they must have the skills and proficiency to do basic math,
have good interpersonal communication/written and verbal communication, practice time
management skills, have knowledge of procedures, acquire good customer service skills, be able
to resolve disputes and be dependable. The must accompany dexterity skills while performing
job duties.
In Nevada, a cage cashier earns $18/hr. at the Bellagio. According to Labor Statistics the
average annual salary for a cage cashier nationwide is $26,670 or $12.82 an hour. Job growth is
expected to increase to 13%. A financial clerk earns about on average $31,000 to $47,000 per
year. In 2016 there were over one million financial clerks. Between 2018 and 2028 the career is
expected to grow -4% and produce – 138,700 job opportunities across the U.S.
A cage clerk at a casino facilitate operations of the casino cage. Duties include assisting
with credit checks, verifying credit references, and aiding customers with safe deposit boxes.
Being a cage clerk, a casino clerk requires a high school diploma or its equivalent. They typically
report to a supervisor.
A casino is an Italian word for house. The word cashier in French means bank. A banker
may earn between $13 and $14 per hour.
A cashier is responsible for collecting cash, checks and credit card payments from
customers. Make change accurately and efficiently. Issue receipts to customers. Deal with
returns and refunds, as necessary. Maintain cash control over register drawer and verify amounts
are correct.
 Cashiers scan items ensure that prices are quantities are correct and collect payments.
They also assist customers by explaining or recommending items, answering questions, and
processing exchanges or refunds.
A good cashier has great customer service skill. The cashier makes eye contact when
talking to the customer. They are active listeners who are willing to help the customer needs.
They are polite and maintain composure with each customer, even when angry. A cashier is
sincere and apologizes if a customer becomes angry and utilizes customer service training to
defuse a situation.
Being a cashier is not difficult if you know how to count money and pay close attention
to the amount the customer gives you to give the correct change. A cashier involves interacting
with people. It is a great part-time job for single mothers.
Cashiers use math to calculate the amount the customer pays by entering the number of
items times the price. They also enter discounts and coupons. They also use math to collect the
correct amount of money and to count back the correct amount of change. A cashier may use a
calculator to count change.
When applying for a cage cashier job, it is a requirement to take an assessment math test.
An assessment math test is to measure the candidates’ proficiency to do math problems required
as a cashier. The test consists of arithmetic, subtraction, multiplication, division, operations with
whole numbers and fractions, recognizing equivalent fractions, mixed numbers and estimating.
A cage cashier at a casino is responsible for exchanging cash for casino tokens, and vice
versa. That means a cage cashier must be able to handle financial transactions for casino patrons
with skill and integrity. As with any gaming worker, she must be licensed for employment, and
that may require a background check and other qualifications, depending upon the individual
state in which she wishes to work.
The most important duties of a casino cage cashier revolve around money. Not only do
cashiers need to exchange chips for cash, they may be called upon to cash checks, pay out credit
card advances or even deal with wire transfers. Cashiers also need to ensure that any transactions
are legitimate, meaning they must be able to recognize forged bills or fake chips, or even spot
problematic checks or credit card transactions.
Cage cashiers handle paperwork when summarizing daily transactions, or balancing
books and cash drawers. Cashiers may also need to run internal checks on gamblers who want
credit or process credit applications for new customers. They may also have to handle paperwork
for fellow employees whether they are cashing in tips or reconciling a particular game take.
As with any gaming industry worker, a cage cashier deals with the public in the form of
gamblers and must be able to satisfy customers accordingly. However, a cage cashier also needs
to be able to handle negative situations, such as credit rejections or dealing with an intoxicated or
belligerent gambler. Cashiers need to be award of all relevant rules and regulations affecting
their casino and the gaming industry as a whole and be able to cite and explain them when
necessary.
It is possible to become a casino cashier with a high school degree or GED. 28% of
casino cashiers have a bachelor’s degree. In terms of higher education levels, we found that 5.4%
of casino cashiers have a master’s degree. There are some casino cage cashiers who have a
master’s degree in business or accounting. Some have a degree in criminal justice or health care
administration. Roles such as a cashier, a sales associate or an assistant manager will help you
gain the experience to become a casino cashier.

The casino cashier’s cage is the operational nerve center of casino operations. As a hub of
activity, it performs many vital functions on a shift-by-shift, day-by-day basis. First, the cage,
together with the vault, is responsible for the custodianship of and accountability for the casino’s
bankroll. This involves the daily care, control, and accounting for thousands, hundreds of
thousands, and even millions of dollars. After all, this is the casino industry we are talking about,
with many high rollers playing for big money.
To break things down, all transactions involving currency, coin, casino checks (chips),
customer casino markers (IOUs), safekeeping funds, and customer front flow money to and from
the cage and its related vault in a continuous cycle. Firstly, accurate recording procedures and
adherence to sound internal controls are required to ensure bankroll safety and accountability at
online casinos. Secondly, the cage provides a vital communication link to the casino pit or pit
areas.
Services include providing check fills and credits to table games, as requested; supplying
information regarding customer credit status; providing financing tabulations of table game
activities documented by the master game report form; and keeping casino supervisors advised
of the relevant information required for a smooth operation.
Thirdly, the cage deals with countless customer transactions. Front-line window cashiers
handle casino chip exchanges for currency; cash personal, payroll, and traveler’s checks; handle
customer safekeeping and 'front money' transactions; receive customer marker payment; deal
with casino promotional coupons, and provide information to customers.
The main job of a casino cashier is to exchange casino chips for cash whenever the
players bring their chips from tables like blackjack and craps. It is the cashier’s job to greet the
player, take the chips, break them down by denomination and pay the player the right amount. If
the total being paid out is quite high, a casino supervisor may be called to verify the payout
before the cashier transfers the money to the player.
While errors rarely happen during this process, it is possible, therefore, cashiers but be
diligent and efficient when they handle casino chips as you would not want either the casino or
the player losing out. Cashiers would need basic math skills as well as the ability to distinguish
the different chips used by the casino. If the casino makes use of slot machines that require
players to insert coins, the cage and cashier will also have to accept and exchange these coin
buckets.
The coins are taken to a coin sorter with the player in attendance, where the coins are
counted. The total amount will be shown on the machine reader, and the cashier must pay this
amount to the player. This not only saves time as the cashier does not have to manually count the
coins but also prevents errors from taking place.
Cage cashiers must also handle a certain amount of paperwork when dealing with daily
transactions, including balancing books and invoices. Cashiers may also need to run internal
checks on gamblers who require credit or to process credit applications for new customers. They
may also need to assist with cashing in tips for fellow employees.
It is important that the cashier have good people skills as you will be working with
gamblers all day long. Cashiers must be able to satisfy the needs of all players, and be able to
handle any negative or hostile situation that may arise. People may get antsy when money is
involved, so it is important for cashiers to be able to control the situation and sort out any issues
immediately and in the most professional manner. Many gamblers enjoy drinking while playing,
therefore cashiers may also have to deal with intoxicated customers. Cashiers must be aware of
all the relevant rules and regulations associated with the casino and gaming industry and be able
to explain them when the situation arises.
The cashier's cage refers to the most important part of any casino. It's where players
swap their money for chips before hitting the casino floor, and where they cash those chips in
on their way out. If you see players at a cashier's cage after playing at the tables, you can
assume they have had a good day at the casino and made a decent profit.
Casino cashiers are not simply cash handlers, their duties and responsibilities extend
far farther than that. If a player wishes to receive their winnings via check (cheque), the
cashier will authorize the necessary forms. Cashiers are also able to issue loans to players, or
accept non-cash payments from players, again by signing and processing the correct forms.
 Some of the most experienced casino players often receive a loan on behalf of the
casino from the cashier as they have built up a relationship with the casino staff over a long
period of time. On top of all these varied exchange processes, cashiers must also be security
conscious as, obviously, they are dealing with a lot of cash and are highly visible to potential
thieves. Luckily, cashier's cages, across all casinos, are very well protected to prevent loss
through theft. This security could be obtained using bulletproof glass, bars, or cages.
Whilst cashier cages are highly visible - they are most often the first thing a player
encounters upon entering a casino - casino bosses have ensured they are impenetrable in order
to protect both their staff and the casino's vast amounts of cash. For added security, many
casinos also employ a cashier supervisor to work alongside the cashier in the cage. This is for
the benefit of the player, the cashier, and the casino.
A cashier supervisor reassures the player that their money and chips are exchanged
correctly, by eliminating human error. This works in favor of the cashier too, as, with the
support of the cashier supervisor they will not have to face any disputes over exchanges with
players.
Finally, from the casino bosses' point of view it is well worth employing a cashier
supervisor, as they can then be sure that there is no corruption within the cashier's cage. In the
past, some cashiers have been found to be colluding in money laundering schemes, and other
types of fraud, alongside players in the casino which have been known to cost casinos tens of
thousands of pounds.
Gaming cage workers or cage cashiers count the money at casinos and other gaming
establishments. They work in a secure place, known as the cage, which is the central depository
for money, gaming chips, and casino paperwork. Cage workers exchange real currency for
playing chips used in dice, card, and roulette games. They also buy these tokens back from
patrons for cash, verify credit references for patrons who want to open a credit account at the
casino, and cash checks.

Because the gaming industry is highly regulated, the cage cashiers must keep precise
records. Transactions involving large sums of money must be reported to the Internal Revenue
Service for tax purposes. Gaming cage workers use computers to calculate and keep track of all
transactions. They must balance their money drawers at the end of each shift.

To be a casino cage cashier, the position requires that you have a high school diploma, a
license from a regulatory agency, pass a math test, have good credit, and be proficient with a
computer.
There are no formal educational requirements for the job, although most employers require a
high school diploma or the equivalent. Casinos usually provide on-the-job training to acquaint
cage workers with the establishment's procedures. They also may offer classroom training in
rules and regulations. Employers expect applicants to speak clear and proper English and to have
excellent math skills. Some employers administer a math test to job applicants. Experience in
handling money or other employment in gaming establishments is helpful in getting a job as a
gaming cage worker.

Gaming cage workers, like all casino employees, must have a license issued by a regulatory
agency such as a state gaming control board or commission. To get this license applicants must
show photo identification, provide proof of residency in the state in which they plan to work, and
pay a fee. The fee may vary by geographical area. Age requirements for the job may vary by
state as well. All gaming job applicants should expect a background check.

Getting the Job

People interested in casino work should contact the personnel offices of casinos directly
for information on openings and entry-level requirements. Working part time or as a seasonal
employee during major tourist seasons is a good way to move into full-time employment.

Advancement Possibilities and Employment Outlook

Gaming cage cashiers can advance to supervisory roles by maintaining spotless work
records and by demonstrating professionalism and good customer relations skills. Additional
education and training may be required for advancement.

The job outlook for gaming cage workers is only moderate through the year 2014, partly
because of technology. All gaming establishments are finding ways to reduce the amount of cash
handled by employees. Cash-out machines, change machines, and automated teller machines
(ATMs) are common. Some slot machines make payouts in tickets instead of coins. The tickets
can be read by other slot machines and the amount on the ticket transferred to a new machine. By
reducing the amount of cash needed to play, fewer workers are needed in the cage.

Gambling is legal in eleven states and the number of gaming establishments is growing.
The largest growth will probably be in Native American–owned casinos and in racetracks that
offer casino games. A fair number of openings for gaming cage workers should result from the
continuous turnover in this occupation, which is usually due to the high level of scrutiny these
employees receive.

Working Conditions
Gaming cage cashiers can advance to supervisory roles by maintaining spotless work
records and by demonstrating professionalism and good customer relations skills. Additional
education and training may be required for advancement.

The job outlook for gaming cage workers is only moderate through the year 2014, partly
because of technology. All gaming establishments are finding ways to reduce the amount of cash
handled by employees. Cash-out machines, change machines, and automated teller machines
(ATMs) are common. Some slot machines make payouts in tickets instead of coins. The tickets
can be read by other slot machines and the amount on the ticket transferred to a new machine. By
reducing the amount of cash needed to play, fewer workers are needed in the cage.

Gambling is legal in eleven states and the number of gaming establishments is growing.
The largest growth will probably be in Native American–owned casinos and in racetracks that
offer casino games. A fair number of openings for gaming cage workers should result from the
continuous turnover in this occupation, which is usually due to the high level of scrutiny these
employees receive.

Working Conditions
Most gaming cage cashiers work eight-hour shifts five days per week. Because casinos
are typically open twenty-four hours a day, shifts are usually staggered, and cage workers are
expected to work some nights, weekends, and holidays. Cage workers are on their feet
throughout their shifts but are usually given two short breaks and a mealtime break. They must
work quickly and be able to concentrate for long periods in a noisy and hectic environment.
Stress is particularly high for gaming cage workers because they are always being observed by
supervisory and surveillance personnel. Cage workers must be tactful when dealing with unruly
and frustrated patrons. In establishments that are not smoke free, they must also deal with
exposure to cigarette, cigar, and pipe smoke. They are sometimes expected to lift and carry
heavy bags of money.

Earnings and Benefits

Wages for gaming cage workers vary according to their level of experience, training,
location, and the size of the gaming establishment that employs them. According to the U.S.
Bureau of Labor Statistics, the median hourly salary of gaming cage workers was $10.74 in May
of 2004.

Casino Cage Manager Job Description

The Casino Cage Manager is accountable for all revenues held in the cage. The casino
cage manager protects casino cage assets by implementing accounting and documentation
policies and procedures, monitoring transactions, and ensuring compliance with company
internal controls, policies, procedures, laws, and regulations. The Casino Cage Manager
oversees day to day operations of casino cage and credit departments. The Casino Cage
Manger is responsible for hiring, supervising, training, evaluating work performance, coach,
discipline, and schedule team members.

Casino Cage Manager Assistant Job Description

Education and Training Requirements
There are no formal educational requirements for the job, although most employers
require a high school diploma or the equivalent. Casinos usually provide on-the-job training to
acquaint cage workers with the establishment's procedures. They also may offer classroom
training in rules and regulations. Employers expect applicants to speak clear and proper English
and to have excellent math skills. Some employers administer a math test to job applicants.
Experience in handling money or other employment in gaming establishments is helpful in
getting a job as a gaming cage worker.

Gaming cage workers, like all casino employees, must have a license issued by a
regulatory agency such as a state gaming control board or commission. To get this license
applicants must show photo identification, provide proof of residency in the state in which they
plan to work, and pay a fee. The fee may vary by geographical area. Age requirements for the
job may vary by state as well. All gaming job applicants should expect a background check.

People interested in casino work should contact the personnel offices of casinos directly
for information on openings and entry-level requirements. Working part time or as a seasonal
employee during major tourist seasons is a good way to move into full-time employment.

Gaming cage cashiers can advance to supervisory roles by maintaining spotless work
records and by demonstrating professionalism and good customer relations skills. Additional
education and training may be required for advancement.

The job outlook for gaming cage workers is only moderate through the year 2014, partly
because of technology. All gaming establishments are finding ways to reduce the amount of cash
handled by employees. Cash-out machines, change machines, and automated teller machines
(ATMs) are common. Some slot machines make payouts in tickets instead of coins. The tickets
can be read by other slot machines and the amount on the ticket transferred to a new machine. By
reducing the amount of cash needed to play, fewer workers are needed in the cage.

Gambling is legal in eleven states and the number of gaming establishments is growing.
The largest growth will probably be in Native American–owned casinos and in racetracks that
offer casino games. A fair number of openings for gaming cage workers should result from the
continuous turnover in this occupation, which is usually due to the high level of scrutiny these
employees receive.

Most gaming cage cashiers work eight-hour shifts five days per week. Because casinos
are typically open twenty-four hours a day, shifts are usually staggered, and cage workers are
expected to work some nights, weekends, and holidays. Cage workers are on their feet
throughout their shifts but are usually given two short breaks and a mealtime break. They must
work quickly and be able to concentrate for long periods in a noisy and hectic environment.
Stress is particularly high for gaming cage workers because they are always being observed by
supervisory and surveillance personnel. Cage workers must be tactful when dealing with unruly
and frustrated patrons. In establishments that are not smoke free, they must also deal with
exposure to cigarette, cigar, and pipe smoke. They are sometimes expected to lift and carry
heavy bags of money.

Wages for gaming cage workers vary according to their level of experience, training,
location, and the size of the gaming establishment that employs them. According to the U.S.
Bureau of Labor Statistics, the median hourly salary of gaming cage workers was $10.74 in May
of 20

Fourthly, the cage interfaces with virtually every casino department--- for example,
transmittal of key forms to the accounting department; involvement with the hard and soft
count audit teams; receiving and issuing cashiers banks to casino revenue departments (bar
banks, showroom banks, Race and Sports Book banks, hotel front-desk banks, etc.); and
working with the security department during the table game fill and credit process.

In some casinos, the cage supports the slot department by providing slot fills,
supplying change persons with requested coins, and providing large jackpot payoffs. The cage
is also charged with the responsibility of preparing and maintaining countless forms required
for sound internal control procedures and safeguarding the casino's assets. Additionally,
compliance with requirements and procedures of the Bank Secrecy Act is a critical
responsibility of casino cage personnel. However, many casinos locate the cage toward the
rear of the casino property and away from customer exits.
One reason for this is to lower the chances of a successful cage robbery. A second reason
for locating the cage in the rear is the psychological factor. A customer cashing out at the
window must walk the length of the casino toward the exit. The temptation of 'one last slot pull'
or 'one final play at the table' can decrease the amount of money the customer takes out the front
door. A third consideration is the location of the pit or live gaming areas. There are several
structural possibilities for the cage facade. Metal bars, others by Plexiglas or shatterproof
windows, protect some cages.
Still, others are 'open' cages with no protective barriers. It all depends on the environment
and management's perceived need for physical security. A small cage operation will typically
offer two customer service windows and an additional window to service casino, slot, or
employee requests. The larger the operation, the more service windows required, but keep in
mind that customers do not to stand in long lines to cash their chips. It is better to have too many
operational windows and window cage security than too few.
Casino cage operations and cashiers may not be necessary for the future as more and
more casinos are now using coinless slot machines, which has made things a lot easier. With no
coins to count, things are less likely to go wrong, fewer employees will be needed and there will
less room for error. Some slot machines print out a bar-coded voucher instead of coins or cash
that can then be cashed out ATM-type machines or at the cashier cage.
Casino Cage Supervisor

The cage shift supervisor – supervises a shift of cage cashiers and clerks who process
financial transactions between customers and the casino. They ensure compliance with policies
and procedures. Being a Cage Shift Supervisor – casino ensures proper levels of cash and cash
equivalents at cashier workstations. May require an associate degree. Additionally, Cage Shift
Supervisor, reports to a manager. The cage shift supervisor supervises a small group of para-
professional staff in an organization by highly transactional or repetitive processes. Contributes
to the development of processes and procedures. Thorough knowledge of functional area under
supervision. To be a Cage Shift Supervisor – Casino typically requires 3 years’ experience in the
related area as an individual contributor.

The bar-code will indicate a legitimate voucher and is read using a reader, which will
reveal the amount the player must be paid. The casino cage is one of the most important and
highly functional aspects of a casino and needs to be treated as such. It is always important to be
respectful and civilized to your cashier. Whenever you visit a casino, make sure to adhere to the
rules of the establishment so that everyone can have an enjoyable experience.

Still, others are 'open' cages with no protective barriers. It all depends on the environment
and management's perceived need for physical security. A small cage operation will typically
offer two customer service windows and an additional window to service casino, slot, or
employee requests. The larger the operation, the more service windows required, but keep in
mind that customers do not to stand in long lines to cash their chips. It is better to have too many
operational windows and window cage security than too few.

Casino cage operations and cashiers may not be necessary for the future as more and
more casinos are now using coinless slot machines, which has made things a lot easier. With no
coins to count, things are less likely to go wrong, fewer employees will be needed and there will
less room for error. Some slot machines print out a bar-coded voucher instead of coins or cash
that can then be cashed out ATM-type machines or at the cashier cage.

Casinos are presented with a challenge when it comes to handling cash. When you
consider the sheer volume of cash that goes into a casino daily, it quickly becomes apparent that
proper cash management is vital to the success of their businesses. Managing large volumes of
cash throughout a big, bustling building is a balancing act with high stakes. As a result, cash
handling in a casino is not only time consuming but it is also expensive.

Maintaining the security of a casino presents another challenge. Both staff and your cash
are at risk of theft. Due to the size of the building, your staff may have to carry floats quite a
distance through the busy environment. Keeping large amounts of cash on site can also present a
tempting opportunity for potential thieves. 

Investing in smart safe technology adds an extra layer of security to a casino by requiring
that any deposits or withdrawals be completed using a personal identification number or
username and password. This allows management to track any funds going in or out of the safes
to a specific employee and prevents access for anybody who does not have a passcode. Smart
safes also protect against counterfeit fraud by verifying each bill that is deposited into the safe.

Casinos are no stranger to regulations and cash management should be treated the same
way. Establishing proper cash handling policies and procedures is vital to reducing the costs of
wasted time, lost money, and mistakes. It is not enough to set procedures in place; all staff must
be effectively trained on your policies to ensure that they will put them into practice. 

Recordkeeping

There are several BSA requirements that are related to recordkeeping. This recordkeeping
requirement is intended to help regulatory agencies as well as law enforcement agencies to
investigate financial crimes, such as money laundering.

When you submit forms to through the BSA E-Filing system, the forms you submit
are not kept on file by the system, it is simply transmitted to FinCEN – it is your responsibility to
make sure that you have saved a copy of each submitted form. The BSA E-Filing system actually
will not let you submit a form until it has been saved; forms submitted through the BSA E-Filing
system can be saved onto a secured computer, network, or another appropriate storage device.
Forms can also be stored as paper filings or on magnetic media.

In addition to having a recordkeeping system of all submitted forms, there are several other BSA
regulations related to recordkeeping compliance that need to be followed:

 Copies of CTRs and SARs, as well as any supporting documents, need to be retained for
at least five years from the date of each report
 A record of each $10,000+ extension of credit unless the extension of credit is secured by
an interest in real property. Credit extension records need to include the following:

 the name of the individual to whom the extension of credit is made

 the address of the individual to whom the extension of credit is made
 the amount of the credit extension
 the date of the credit extension
 the nature/purpose of the credit extension
 A record of any advice, request, or instruction either received or given in regards to
information about transactions, actual transactions, or cancelled transactions of the transfer
of the following in an amount of more than $10,000 to or from any person, account, or place
outside of the United States
  currency
 funds
 checks
 investment securities
 credit
 other monetary instruments
Considering CTR compliance requires a method to aggregate the cash-in and cash-out
transactions by individuals, a Multiple Transaction Log (MTL) – or Action Control Log (ACL) –
should be kept. As a rule of thumb, transactions that are $2,500 - $3,000 are recorded in these
logs. These logs are typically kept and used near the Pit, Cage, or Slot areas so that patrons’
transactions can easily be recorded. Logs should be kept for at least a 24-hour period, at the end
of which the logs should be turned over to the accounting department for analysis and
maintenance.

Each entry on a MTL should contain, at a minimum, the following information:

 A description and, if known, the name of the person who is conducting the
transaction
 The table number where the transaction occurred (if it occurred in the Pit)
 The time and date of the transaction
 The type of transaction (bets of currency, cash-out of chips, etc.)
 The amount of the transaction
 The signature of the casino/card club personnel who recorded the entry
MTLs are not explicitly required by Title 31 – but casinos and card clubs incorporate MTLs
in their recordkeeping procedures so that they are compliant with the aggregate’s requirement.
After all, if the transactions of an individual are not tracked over a 24-hour period, how will the
casino/card club know when the $10,000 CTR threshold has been met?

MTLs, or another similar log that aggregates transactions, when made, must be retained for
recordkeeping for at least 5 years.

Anti-Money Laundering (AML) Program

For each casino and card club to be fully compliant with Title 31, each employee should
be aware of what compliance requirements are which is why an Anti-Money Laundering (AML)
program is needed for each casino and card club. To be clear, CTR and SAR procedures, as well
as MTL procedures, are included within the ATL program.

The AML needs to be written and developed based upon the casino or card club’s unique
risks for money laundering and/or terrorist financing. Since no casino or card club is the same,
the AML program from one casino/card club to another may be similar but not exactly word-for-
word.

At a minimum, a compliant AML program needs to include the following:

1. a reasonable internal control system that is designed to prevent money laundering and
terrorist financing as well as be compliant with BSA regulations
2. a system for frequent testing, either internally or externally, for BSA compliance on a
large enough scale such that it is proportional to the risks of money laundering and terrorist
financing induced by product and service offerings
3. instructions of casino personnel training
4. the designation of an individual or individuals who are responsible for ensuring daily
AML & BSA compliance
5. the procedures that are to be used to determine and validate the following identity
information about an individual

1. name
2. address
3. Social Security number or tax identification number
4. any other identity information determined as pertinent
6. the procedures that are to be used to identify and report suspicious transactions or
suspicious patterns of transactions
7. (for casinos that use computer systems) an automated program or programs that aids with
insuring BSA compliance
To be clear, to validate the identity of individuals (step 5), a form of I.D. must be presented.
The following lists the acceptable forms of I.D.; at least one of these must be presented by
individuals:

 state-issued driver's licenses

 state-issued I.D. cards
 U.S. Citizenship/Immigration Services (USCIS) photo I.D.
 resident alien 'green card'
 passport
Additionally, individuals must do one of the following to verify their Social Security number2:

 present a Social Security card

 fill out a W-9 with their Social Security number (or tax identification number)
If an individual is unable to or refuses to show I.D., no transaction – even cashing-in chips –
should be allowed by the individual.

This chapter discuss the casino cage. The casino cashier’s cage is the operational nerve
centre of casino operations. As a hub of activity, it performs many vital functions on a shift-by-
shift, day-by-day basis. First, the cage, together with the vault, is responsible for the
custodianship of and accountability for the casino’s bankroll. he casino cashier’s cage is the
operational nerve centre of casino operations. As a hub of activity, it performs many vital
functions on a shift-by-shift, day-by-day basis. First, the cage, together with the vault, is
responsible for the custodianship of and accountability for the casino’s bankroll. Casino
Cashiers are also called cage cashiers and are responsible for handling money, casino chips, and
paperwork. Duties these employees need to complete are completing transactions, exchanging
tokens, processing wire transfers, performing credit checks, and balancing books at the end of
the shift.

Casino Auditing

The casino business is not an easy business to manage. It entails major responsibilities
that are essential for the success of running one's own casino establishment. Although the casino
business involves gambling activities such as the offering of different casino games, the casino
business also involves different areas of management such as running a restaurant, casino
auditing, customer services and many other forms of hierarchal chain of command that make the
casino business a huge corporation to run.

Because the casino business involves huge amount of financial transactions that include
paying out winners and general management of running the casino operations, it is empirical that
proper management of the flow of financial transaction is observed thus giving primary
important to the process of casino auditing. A grave mistake on the payouts and revenue reports
made by a casino establishment can pose a grace threat to the credibility and reputation of a
particular casino establishment.

This gives major importance to proper conduct of casino auditing which is always
implemented in collaboration of three major entities namely the casino management represented
by its internal casino auditing team, regulating government agencies and independent certified
public accountants.

The essence of an internal casino auditing team is to manage the financial flow coming in
and out of the casino. This includes all chips are properly accounted for. Casino establishments
are very careful in managing payouts as the slightest mistakes can take its reputation at stake
often with resulting irreparable damage on its credibility. Their responsibility in casino auditing
procedure also includes strict monitoring to ensure that both their employees and players do not
cheat.

The major roles of certified public accountants primarily involve closely monitoring the
casino auditing procedures involving its financial report, conduct of annual audits, submission of
reports to the Security and Exchange Commissions and to regulating agencies. They also
scrutinize the internal casino auditing procedures and systems implemented and make evaluation
whether it comply with the standard requirements of the regulating agency.

The roles of government agencies are primarily focused on the casino's compliance with
revenue report and taxes while regulating agencies ensure that the highest standards of quality
gambling services are provided to the gambling community including the review and evaluation
of the casino's system of determining the payout percentage, timely payment to casino winners
and ensuring that the casino has sufficient funds for payouts.

The tedious process of casino auditing in primarily responsible for the financial stability
of casino establishment that ensure highest quality standards of financial services are observed
within the casino and extending it to their patrons.

Legalized casino gaming was limited to the state of Nevada until 1976. h the 1990s,
many other states have passed referenda that establish casino gaming as a legal business. Many
Native American tribes also have their own casino operations. The more established states such
as Nevada and New Jersey have gaming control boards or commissions which regulate the daily
casino operations.

Minimum Internal Control Standards (MICS)

Several issues are addressed in the MICS. First, the licensee must dearly identify the
functions and responsibilities within the organization and how they are segregated (Stutts, 1995).
This can be achieved through an organizational chart. Once these positions are in place, a
detailed description of the duties and responsibilities for each position must be included. The
licensee also must identify the sensitive areas such as cage, pit podium, surveillance, hard/ soft
count, and credit information.

In addition, the positions or individuals who have signatory authority on various matters
need to be included. Such matters are very similar to a regular hotel operation as in
complimentary granting privileges. Others, more unique to casino operations, include approval
of credit for customers to play, check-cashing approvals, credit and fills for the games, and
jackpots of and over a certain ceiling amount.

Moreover, the licensee must identify the administrative and accounting procedures that it
will follow. These procedures range from opening and dosing a table, table inventories, fills and
credits, transportation of chips and tokens to and from gaming tables, shift change, and drop box
collection to the control of coupon redemption and other complimentary distribution programs
for federal cash-reporting purposes. The MICS spells out everything so that chances of theft,
collusion, and other illegal activities by employees and guests can be reduced to a minimum, if
not eliminated (Stutts, 1995).

Accounting Control Once a company has obtained a license from the proper authorities,
then the games can begin. In casino controls, the organization of the accounting department is
crucial, especially in the general accounting and casino revenue audit areas.
 These terms in gaming are like terms such as "ADR" or "REVPARJJ in hotel accounting
in that it is through these terms that profits are measured, and the accounting functions are
performed.

Organization A typical accounting department of a casino hotel operation is very similar

to that of a conventional hotel. The chief financial officer, also known as the controller or
comptroller, presides over all the accounting personnel (Gray, 1996). Under the controller are the
major and general accounting that consists of payables, receivables, and cashiers. The one main
1 charge of the slot count (hard count - coins and tokens), the pit game count (soft count - 1 thus
the fills and credits. Some casino hotels establish an internal audit function either be- I General
Accounting As mentioned, the general accounting function includes the ordinary duties of
payable~, receivables, and cashiering - except that in casino hotel cashiering, this function also
includes the cashiers in the cage and other cashiers on the floor.

The main concern in the organizational structure of casino accounting is to divide the
responsibilities of the department to the extent that it will minimize collusion and fraud. Casino
revenue accounting can be divided into three major areas, from the time the money comes into
the casino through the front doors to when it ends up in the back office vault: cage operations,
casino operations, and count rooms.

In cage-operations, the cage cashiers and the credit cashiers who approve the players
from the pit to buy chips and tokens once credit is approved are the main personnel. These
cashiers will change the chips back to cash and will apply the winnings against credit issued.

In casino operations, the dealers at the various games, the pit clerks who record the game
transactions and process credit issuance requests, and the drop teams who collect the drop boxes
are the people who we take in the coins, tokens and money from the players for the casino.

Finally in the count rooms, the hard- and soft-count personnel will count and verify the
values of all coins, chips, tokens, and bills, all according to the procedures set out in the MKS,
and record the revenues for the casino (Greenlees, 1988). Principal Revenue Flows and
Cashiering * Money flows into a casino through the cashier cage and the play of games. In most
casinos, players buy their chips at the tables, hence the drop. In a few casinos, mainly outside of
the United States, the main cashier cage takes in money from players in exchange for chips, and
all casinos cash the remaining chips or winnings of the players at the end of their stay.

The cage also takes care of fills and credits. As for games, there are primarily six
categories: table games, poker, keno, bingo, sports and race book, and slots (Greenlees, 1988).
The money that comes from the cage will go directly back to vault for deposits or replenishment
and accounting records will be sent to the comptroller's office. The money from games will go
through the drop and count procedures in the count room and finally to the vault while the
accounting records again will be sent to the comptroller's office.

Main Cashiering and the Cage Especially for smaller casino operations, the cage is where
the main cashiering functions take place. It is the focal point of all cash activities whereby
players can exchange their currency into chips or vice versa, and table games and slots can carry
out their fills and credits. It is also a communication point between the vault and the floor, so that
if chips are running out at a game or there is an excess accumulation of money in the cage, the
money and/or chips are transferred to the vault. In this case, the vault will not need to be opened
many times during the day. This, again, is a control measure.

Besides preparing fills and credits for the games on the floor, the cage also takes care of
the credit that is extended to the customers by receiving their counter check request and giving
the pit clerk the okay for table issuance. There is another since that the casino cage supplies.
When a customer is carrying a large amount of cash, he or she may put it on deposit in the cage.
The customer then may draw against that amount by filling out paperwork like a credit request.
This is called a cash deposit withdrawal or CDW.

Table Games Cashiering for table games takes place between the player and the dealer
where the player gives the dealer money, markers, or CDW in exchange for the gaming chips.
The money, markers and other documents will be placed in the drop box and chips exchanged
are normally added to the table inventory of chips to be counted. Poker and other card games
may take place off the floor in a separate room. Because of this, the cashiering function is
significant. Chips can be bought and sold at the table just as they can in the games of blackjack
or craps. In some casinos, you may also find a separate cashier cage outside the Poker room. This
cage exists for the obvious reason of being more convenient for the players. Also, Poker rooms
typically operate on a commission basis. The house is not involved monetarily in the outcome of
each hand. Therefore, it is wise from a control standpoint to have the cashier activities taken care
of by a cashier rather than the dealer at the table.

Keno, Bingo, Sports and Race Book There is not a lot of cashiering activity involved in
keno because a player buys a keno ticket, which activity resembles a regular sales transaction
rather than casino cashiering, unless the player is a winner. The only cashiering involved is when
the player pays with a larger bill and change is needed. Bingo is very much the same as keno.
The player buys the bingo cards and collects from the casino when he or she wins. Sports and
race books are the same. A player buys a simple bet ticket and waits for the results, and they
distribute the payouts.

Cashiering in this category is not as complicated as the table games. Slots-Electronic

Gaming Devices In slots, there are no dealers to make change. It also does not take as long to
play a hand in slots. Thus, a continuous flow of change is needed. Usually, besides the main
cashier cage, there are several booths dedicated to slots, located very strategically in or near the
slot area, for the ease of making change. Most slots also take bills in exchange for play credits.

Technology today also allows the use of a magnetic-striped card that records the amount
of plays made and thus the amount of cash used. Such cards are like debit cards. Larger slot
operations have change personnel known as carousel cashiers, runway personnel, or carnival
cashiers. They provide players with easy access to change. They may Internal Control Practices
in Casino Gaming filled out by the dealer. The top original copy will be given to the casino
supervisor while the duplicate copy, the opener, is deposited in the chip rack and locked under a
clear lid. The closer will go in the drop box.

At the beginning of the next gaming day, the casino supervisor will unlock the table rack
so that the dealer can count the table chip inventory and verify its accuracy against that of the
duplicate slip (opener) from the previous day. The opener has the table number and sometimes
the shift number, dearly marked, so that investigation can be carried out with a trail to follow
when the inventory is not correct. When all are in order, the dealer and supervisor sign the
opener and drop it in the drop box and the game can begin (Stutts, 1995).

Casino Audit Process

The Nevada Gaming Control Board’s Audit Division performs full audits of all
nonrestricted Group 1 licensees approximately once every three years. The division does not give
licensees advance notice about when it will open an audit. Instead, Audit Division auditors give
this notification during the audit opening when they present an audit introduction letter to the
person in-charge of the casino (e.g., the casino shift manager). The introduction letter announces
the audit, introduces the auditor-in-charge (AIC) of the audit, specifies the time being audited,
and identifies the documents and other information the division will need to conduct the audit.

After auditors present the introduction letter, they proceed with the audit opening by
requesting immediate access to the cage, counting rooms, and all other secured or unsecured
areas within the casino. Auditors generally observe one or more counts during the opening, and
they count the funds in the casino cage and all other bankrolled areas in the casino. The length of
an audit opening depends upon the size of the casino; however, it usually lasts several hours.

At some point during the opening, the AIC of the audit will meet with the controller or
some other responsible member of the accounting department to discuss the documents and
information being requested in the introduction letter. The Audit Division usually requires these
documents and this information to be provided within 10 calendar days of the audit opening date.
The AIC will also brief the accounting department representative about the immediate and long-
term plans for the audit and will plan for the audit staff to have a secure workspace for the
duration of the audit.

During the audit, Audit Division auditors will conduct numerous inquiries, examine, and
review a variety of documents and records, make several requests, and perform many
observations. The Audit Division recognizes the additional burden that an audit places on
licensee employees. Therefore, auditors will generally attempt to accommodate employees
whenever possible (e.g., perform interviews at a “better time”, allow additional time to provide
information or documentation, etc.). However, the Audit Division expects licensees and their
employees to show diligence in complying with requests.

The length of an audit depends on many factors including, but not limited to, the size of
the licensee being audited and the problems encountered during the audit (e.g., violations, audit
adjustments, record retrieval problems, etc.). Depending upon these factors, an audit may take
several weeks or several months to complete. Obviously, audits are completed much faster and
more smoothly when licensees are cooperative and comply with Audit Division requests in a
timely manner.

Once the division has completed audit field work, the AIC will meet with the controller
or some other appropriate licensee representative to informally discuss the findings of the audit.
This is called an exit conference. At this point, the audit findings are still subject to at least one
more level of review. Therefore, the purpose of the exit conference is to discuss the division’s
tentative findings and to allow licensees an opportunity to provide additional information that
may change the audit findings (e.g., information that might eliminate a violation or an audit
adjustment). The tone of the meeting is meant to be very informal and non-confrontational.

After the exit conference, usually within a few weeks, the Audit Division will hold a
closing conference (pursuant to Regulation 6.020) with appropriate licensee management
personnel to formally review the audit findings. The AIC, the assigned Audit Supervisor and
Audit Manager and, in some cases, a Chief Deputy Auditor will represent the Audit Division at
this meeting.

Licensee representatives have an opportunity to again provide information that may

change the division’s audit findings. If after the meeting licensee representatives have material
disagreements with the audit findings, Regulation 6.020(3) allows them 10 calendar days from
the date of the closing conference to submit written evidence as to why the results of the audit
should not be accepted. The Board shall consider any such written submission prior to deciding
about the audit findings at Audit Committee. Audit Committee is a meeting at which the Audit
Division presents its findings to the Board.

If the Audit Division determines, and the Board agrees, that a licensee is required to pay
additional fees and taxes or finds that the licensee is entitled to a refund of fees and taxes, the
licensee will receive written notification of this fact within approximately two weeks after the
date of Audit Committee. Additionally, if any violations were noted during the audit, licensees
usually receive a violation letter within a month from the date of Audit Committee.

Many jurisdictions realizing their share (taxes) in gaming operations, have imposed strict
regulatory guidelines which are constantly monitored to ensure compliance. With strict
regulatory guidelines have not been imposed, many reputable gaming companies have realized it
is sound business practice to adhere to a detailed, comprehensive set of internal controls. These
controls are based on audit/paper trail and oversight by several individuals. AD incompatible
functions are eliminated, and many different departments are involved in transactions.
Surveillance and internal audit departments, which report to an authority outside of the casino,
strict compliance with all internal control procedures.
As the hospitality industry continues to grow and evolve, and the plain fad that a large
amount of cash changes hands, internal control in casinos is of utmost to both industry
practitioners and hospitality educators. For practitioners, having the appropriate control system
to ensure accountability without sacrificing the satisfaction of the guest can enhance operation
effectiveness, goodwill, and profitability. Additionally, for hospitality programs that are offering
courses in gaming, the topic of internal control systems is one that students do need to master to
become effective managers in the casino environment.