A casino jackpot is a large prize that can be won by a player playing a game of chance or a slot machine. A casino jackpot can also be used as a term to describe the total amount of money awarded in a lottery, sweepstakes or other prize-based gaming event.

There are several types of casino jackpots, including fixed and progressive. A fixed jackpot offers a set payout amount that remains the same, while a progressive jackpot increases in size every time a player places a bet on the game. Some casinos offer both options, while others stick with a single type of jackpot.

The probability of winning a casino jackpot depends on luck, but certain rules can increase your chances of hitting it. One key rule is that the bigger a jackpot, the less likely it is to be won. This is because there are often thousands of players who want to win it, and their number grows exponentially as the jackpot gets larger.

When you hit a big jackpot, you can expect a quick visit from a casino attendant. The machine will send a signal to the casino’s monitoring room, and an employee will rush over to verify your win.

They’ll ask to see your government-issued identification, and you won’t get a penny until you provide it. This is important, even if you’re an out-of-towner who doesn’t have a valid passport. Casinos must verify your identity to protect themselves from fraud and illegal activity, and they’re required by law to keep all your winnings in a safe location until you can prove your identity.