Collecting money from an online tournament provider

[Gogolo]

My state: Washington State
Website's headquarters: New York

I have won over $1000 in online gaming tournaments on MLG/Gamebattles. This took place in early August, over 5 months ago. I have been told the process will take "60-90 days" shortly afterward until my payment is received (it has since been over 130 days). I have repeatedly contacted site staff, who have told me they can not give me another timeframe and that I need to "be patient".

However, I have previously won a small amount (around $50) that was was never paid for, even though I won it over a year ago. I let that slide, because of the small amount of money, but do not intend to let this slide. These reasons make me feel that I am being taken advantage of.

I intend to take legal action, but I have the following questions:
- How long should I "be patient" before I have legal recourse? At what point are they legally required to pay me?
- What process would I follow to take legal action, considering that their headquarters are located across the country?

Any other advice you can give would be appreciated.

Thanks.

 

[racer72]

How exactly did you win this money? Playing games? Gambling? Did you pay to play?

 

[Gogolo]

The tournaments were sponsored by the US Army for the video game Halo Wars for XBox 360 (the US Army gave the money to MLG/Gamebattles to host the tournament). As a result of the sponsorship, the tournament was free to enter. There were a series of six tournaments, each for $250. I won four of the tournaments. The winner was determined by a typical tournament bracket.

 

[Gogolo]

Dropping down the page without an answer... Anyone?