In a system and method for securely storing and controlling the dispensing
of a payout, the system includes a payout dispenser for securely storing
and dispensing a payout, and a terminal for controlling the dispensing of
the payout and for interfacing with an attendant in connection with the
payout. The system further includes a network for interconnecting the
payout dispenser and the terminal. The system may also include a device
for indicating a payout payable responsive to the input of a person to
whom the payout is payable, wherein the payout-indicating device may be
connected to the payout dispenser and the terminal by a network. The
system may further include a device for enabling the dispensing of a
payout breakage amount, which is the difference between the payout in a
payout dispenser denomination and the payment to be paid out. The system
may still further include a central terminal for centrally controlling
the dispensing of payouts at a plurality of local stations to which the
central terminal may be networked.