It is my understanding that a chip, or technically a cheque, is an outstanding debt that is owed to a customer... many customers who live out of state and are not aware of a redemption noctice. A lottery ticket has an expiration date printed on it... chips (cheques) do not, except for some promotion chips. It's a Vegas rip-off that other gaming juristictions do not have. Just my layman's opinion Steve. Others may disagree.