What is a marker in a casino?

If you’re someone who feels uneasy carrying large amounts of cash, it’s completely understandable. However, when you’re at a brick-and-mortar casino, cash remains the preferred method of payment.

A way to avoid carrying cash while still enjoying the gaming tables is by using a casino marker. Essentially, a casino marker is like “monopoly money” but is backed by your actual credit score and financial resources.

If you’ve ever applied for a loan, you’ll have a good idea of how casino markers work. However, it’s crucial to fully understand the commitment you’re making.

Casino Markers: What They Are and How Players Obtain Them

Getting a casino marker is similar to applying for a car loan or a mortgage. You’ll need to complete a credit application, and the casino, acting like a bank, will assess your eligibility based on your credit history and financial assets.

Although the casino will determine a credit limit, you aren’t required to borrow the full amount. You can request a marker for less than the maximum.

Once issued, the ways you can use a casino marker may vary by casino, but generally, it can be applied to play any games, as long as your marker meets the minimum bet requirements.

While using a casino marker can ease concerns about carrying cash, there are still important factors to consider.

Key Considerations When Using Casino Markers

The key thing to remember about casino markers is that they are not free money. If you don’t repay the borrowed amount by the agreed deadline, collection efforts will begin.

Although casino markers typically don’t incur interest, applying for one involves a hard credit check, which can lower your credit score. Your score could take an even bigger hit if you fail to repay the marker on time.