A casino jackpot is the top prize of any gambling game, whether it’s a slot machine, table game or even a poker tournament. These big winnings are a key factor to the gambling industry’s continued success and they can change a player’s life in an instant.

There are many different types of casino jackpots, including fixed jackpots, progressive jackpots and annuity-based jackpots. A fixed jackpot is a set amount of money that can be won by hitting the right combination of symbols, activating a bonus feature or spinning an extra reel. A progressive jackpot, on the other hand, is an ever-growing jackpot that is fed by every bet placed on a given slot machine.

When a winner hits a jackpot, they’re usually greeted by a casino representative who will verify their identity by asking for their ID or a driver’s license. Depending on the size of the jackpot, land-based casinos may also request bank statements or letters from the IRS that show their name and address.

Once the initial paperwork is complete, the winner will receive their winnings and be able to cash out or choose to receive payments in annuity form, which can be up to 30 years in length. Annuity payments allow winners to spread their jackpot over a long period of time so they can enjoy the lifestyle and security of a steady income for the rest of their lives. They can also invest the money to grow their winnings over time, which is an attractive option for many jackpot winners.