They must have changed the prize distribution procedure for Who Wants to Be a Millionaire. I was on the show in 2000. They gave us a big speech about how if you win a big prize, they will literally cut you a check for that amount and you should talk to a tax advisor before spending anything. One of their early winners got into some tax trouble. I didn't win anything on the show, but they sent me a check for $400 in January to cover my taxes on the plane tickets and hotel.