Enter a clue or pattern or both:
The Clue
Debtors' notes (4 letter answer)
The Answer
IOUS
Tags
Notes
The answer IOUS is common and appears about once every 225 puzzles.
Related Clues
Chits
Debts
Markers
Borrower's handouts
Brief promises?
Certain chits
Notes in a pot
Notes in pots
Notes of a sort
Promises to pay
Short notes
Tabs, of sorts
Written promises
Alternatives to chips, say
Bettors' promises, e.g.
Notes in a poker pot
Notes in a pot, maybe
Papers in poker pots
Poor writer's scribblings?
Suffix with labor or victor
They indicate shyness
Unlucky gambler's output
Definition
IOU as a noun:
1. an informal debt instrument; representing `I owe you'