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Yes, a non-w2 wage earner has income that is not tracked by a w2 ...

The general issue with gambling wins is not that the IRS doesn't know (casinos report winnings) its that they don't have to report losses.

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Another asymmetry: Winnings are always included while losses are itemized. Which means if you take the standard deduction you cannot write off the loses, but still have to include the gains.

What? Casinos don't report all winnings. Anyone can get chips for cash, and cash for chips.

Indeed, there's a size limit on reportable winnings that trigger the necessity of a W-2G. There's also potentially different requirements that trigger tax withholding by the payer.

It's generally $600 for winnings, and $5000 for withholding.

https://www.irs.gov/pub/irs-news/at-01-17.pdf

https://www.irs.gov/pub/irs-tege/gaming_withholding_reportin...

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