Michigan is one of several states with both in-person and full mobile sports betting. Things got off the ground when Gov. Gretchen Whitemer signed sports betting into law in December 2019, with in-person wagering going live in March 2020. It wasn’t until January 2021 that online sports betting launched in the Wolverine State but now that it’s here, Michigan is set up to be the industry’s next boomtown.
With mobile wagering in place, Michigan online sportsbooks allow the public to take part from the location of their choice, including their own home. These sites make the process even more convenient by offering easy-to-use apps for download. Another key benefit of the state expanding to online is the ability for customers to reap the benefits of generous bonuses and promotions, thanks to bonus codes that can be obtained here at BonusSeeker.
These Michigan sportsbook bonus codes can be used to give you a leg up from the start of your sports betting journey by triggering exclusive welcome bonuses. Many of these offers help expand the bettor’s bankroll while also allowing for exploration of all that is offered on the site and app.
A huge benefit is that these sports betting sites are legal and are licensed and regulated by the Michigan Gaming Control Board, which means residents of the state no longer need to even consider using offshore brands. Each legal online sportsbook in Michigan also offers a seemingly endless amount of betting options across a huge range of sports.
Whether you’re intersted in one of the major professional US sports leagues, collegiate athletics, or one of tee many niche sports out there, these sites have a ton to offer. Most sports bettors use the following to decide which sportsbook to join:
- Welcome bonuses
- Promotions
- Player-Friendly Betting Odds
- Bet Types/Market Variety
- Quality Of App/User Experience
Can I Sports Bet Online In Michigan?
Yes, you can place bets online in Michigan. On December 20, 2019, Governor Gretchen Whitmer signed two bills, which legalized online sports betting in the state. In-person betting began in March 2020 while online wagering took a bit longer to commence. As on January 2021, both mobile and in-person wagering is legal in Michigan.
Where Can I Place A Bet?
You can place an online sports wager from any location so long as you’re physically within the Michigan state borders. There are also over two dozen land-based casinos in operation within the state, many of which will have sportsbooks. Some of the most popular retail sportsbooks are operating in Detroit:
- Greektown Casino-Hotel
- MGM Grand Detroit
- MotorCity Casino Hotel
Do You Have To Live In Michigan To Bet Online?
No, you don’t have to live in Michigan to bet online. You do, however, need to be within the state’s lines in order to deposit and place bets.
Are Online Sportsbooks Legit?
Yes, online sportsbooks are completely legit and safe. Unlike offshore sportsbooks, sports betting sites are regulated by the Michigan Gaming Control Board to ensure fair play.
Can I Win Real Money At An Online Sportsbook?
Yes, Michigan sports betting sites allow you to place real money bets where you can win real cash.
Why Play At An Sports Betting Site Vs. A Land-Based Sportsbook?
When it comes to Michigan sports betting sites and their counterparts, land-based sportsbooks, there are many reasons as to why you would prefer mobile betting.
If looking for a sports-centric atmosphere where games can be enjoyed with large crowds, brick-and-mortar locations can serve that purpose. But there’s no question that online betting offers many more advantagages, including the following:
- Ability to wager from convenient location of your choice
- Mobile sites offer many more markets and betting options
- Online sportsbooks offer welcome bonuses and promotions
- More banking options along with instant deposits and easy withdrawals, which take 24 to 72 hours
- No waiting in lines and can place wagers in a matter of seconds (much better for live betting)
- Potential to earn benefits through VIP rewards
How Do Sports Betting Signup Offers Work?
Michigan signup offers are given to new players who sign up for a sportsbook. These incentives are meant to attract bettors to the site and can allow you to pad your bankroll or limit potential risk.
All you really need to do is find the sportsbook for you and click on a “Get Bonus” button or put in a promo code (if available) to activate your welcome bonus.
There are several different types of welcome offers that bettors may receive from an online sportsbook.
Types Of Sportsbook Signup Offers
First Deposit Offer
A first deposit offer is a welcome bonus that gives new players an incentive to deposit into a new online sportsbook account. When a player makes their initial deposit, the sportsbook will match that amount if the bettor meets the wagering requirements.
This offer is usually up to a certain amount and the match percentage can be different depending on the sports betting site, but it is oftentimes a 100 percent match.
No Deposit Offer
A no deposit offer is one of the best welcome offers you can find because it requires no risk for the player and awards a bonus just for creating an account. All you have to do is sign up, meaning no deposit is required, and the sportsbook will give you a certain amount to get started.
Risk-Free Bet
A risk-free promotion gives players a second chance if their wager happens to lose. In most cases, a risk-free bet involves a bettor’s first wager with the sportsbook. If that bet happens to lose, you will receive a site credit equal to the original stake (up to a certain amount), which you can use to place more bets.
How To Sign Up To An MI Sports Betting Site
It’s easy to sign up for a Michigan online sportsbook. First, make sure you meet these qualifications:
- You must be at least 21 years old
- You must have valid identification
- You are not banned from the sportsbook
Now follow these steps to sign up and get all available welcome bonuses:
- Click our signup link or the “Get Bonus” button to activate the sportsbook’s welcome bonus.
- You will then be brought to the registration page where you will fill out your name, address, email, and other information.
- You can then choose your deposit option to start betting!
How To Deposit At A Sportsbook
Depositing at a Michigan sportsbook can be quick and easy. Here are the steps to deposit:
- Once logged in, click on the “Deposit” icon (or another similar name such as “Cashier”). These icons are usually in the account menu or at the top of the website or app.
- Choose a deposit option. If using an eWallet or credit card, you will need to register your account or card information.
- After choosing an amount to deposit, follow any on-screen prompts to complete your transaction.
It’s important to note that even though most large banking brands will have no issue with your transaction, it is possible that some banks block payments to gambling sites. If a block on your deposit occurs, it is likely an issue with your credit/debit card or bank, and not the sports betting site.
How To Withdraw?
Once you place winnings bets, you may be ready to withdraw from a Michigan online sportsbook. Here are the steps to withdraw:
- In most cases, you can find the withdrawal option under the “My Account” or “Cashier” section of the sports betting site.
- After selecting the option to withdraw, fill in the amount of money you’d like to take out of the account and select your withdrawal method.
- Complete your withdrawal and allow for 24 to 48 hours for the funds to process (processing time depends on the withdrawal method).
Keep in mind that some sites will require bettors to withdraw using the same method they did to deposit, assuming it is applicable. For example, using an eWallet such as PayPal to deposit will mean using PayPal to withdraw as well.
Online Sportsbook Payment Options
The list of payment options continues to grow in Michigan. And with so many choices, bettors should be able to find one that works best for them.
Credit Cards
Credit Cards are one of the most popular payment methods available at Michigan sports betting sites. Deposits are instant and there won’t be any fees, but you will not be able to withdraw with a credit card. Below are some of the cards that may be available at a sportsbook:
- Visa
- MasterCard
- American Express
- Discover
Debit Cards
Debit cards are similar to credit cards, except a debit card will be linked to your bank account, therefore any deposits you make at a sportsbook will be withdrawn from your account.
Like credit cards, deposits are instant with no fees, but you can’t withdraw from a sports betting site using your debit card. Here is a list of potential debit cards you be able to use:
- Visa
- MasterCard
- American Express
Play Plus
Play Plus works like a prepaid card, except it is usually directly tied to the sportsbook. Your Play+ card can be loaded with a credit card, debit card, or a bank account and deposit instantly!
There are no fees associated with a Play+ card and you can even make withdrawals!
Prepaid Cards
Prepaid cards work similarly to Play+ cards, except prepaid cards can’t be used for withdrawals. But deposits will be instant and you won’t have to connect your credit or debit card to the sportsbook.
PayPal
PayPal is one of the most widely-used eWallets and is a great option for safe and secure transactions at your online sportsbook.
If you connect PayPal to your checking account, you won’t have to worry about fees. But if you connect a credit card, for instance, you could be subject to a 2.9% fee.
PayPal deposits are instant and withdrawals are usually processed into your account within 24 to 48 hours.
If you deposit using PayPal, some betting sites make it that you then must withdraw with PayPal.
Skrill
Skrill is an eWallet option that can be funded with a credit card, checking account, or check.
Deposits with Skrill are instant and withdrawals normally process within 24 hours.
There are potential fees. There could be a monthly fee of 1% for all transactions, as well as a flat fee of $5.50 when making a bank transfer from Skrill. There is also a $7.50 fee when transferring from Skrill to Visa.
PayNearMe
If you want to avoid e-wallets or connect to your bank account, you can use PayNearMe.
The process involves purchasing a voucher from 7-Eleven, Family Dollar, or CVS Pharmacy, then using that voucher to make your deposit online. There are no fees.
ACH
ACH is a payment method that connects to your bank account, which allows for fast deposits and withdrawals. Once you verify your banking information, processing time can take less than 24 hours.
Check
In some cases, you can ask for a check when withdrawing from a Michigan sportsbook, but the processing time can take up to two weeks.
Cash At The Casino Cage
There will be casinos associated with these online sportsbooks, and in such cases, it may be possible to go to the associated land-based casino and make deposits and withdrawals to and from your sports betting account.
Sports Betting Apps In Michigan
Michigan sports betting apps allow bettors to use their mobile devices to make wagers. Sportsbook apps are available for iOS and Android devices.
Downloading a sportsbook app will be the same process as you would when downloading any app to your phone. You will have access to all the lines and markets, just like you would on a desktop browser, however, the layout of the app may be different in comparison.
Can I Bet On Sports With My iPhone Or Other iOS devices?
Yes, you can bet on sports with your iPhone and other iOS devices, assuming the sportsbook offers the app.
Can I Bet On Sports With My Android Phone or Tablet?
Yes, you can bet on sports with your Android device and tablet, as long as the sports betting site offers the app.
Do I Need To Create A Second Account To Play On An MI Mobile Sportsbook App?
No, you don’t need to create a second account to use a Michigan sportsbook mobile app. All you have to do is download the app and log in.
How To Download A Sportsbook App For iPhone
It is fairly simple to download a Michigan sportsbook app after signing up. You can follow these steps:
- First, click on the “Get Bonus” button to the sportsbook you want to join. You will be redirected to the sportsbook’s website to create your new account.
- Search for the sportsbook in the App Store and choose the correct app.
- Once the app is downloaded, open it, and sign in with the account you created earlier.
How To Down A Sportsbook App For Android
The process to download a Michigan sports betting app on Android is a bit different from iOS devices. Here are the steps:
- Click the “Get Bonus” link for the sportsbook you want to join and sign up.
- After logging in via the website homepage on your mobile device, look for an option to download the app.
- After initiating the download, follow the on-screen prompts.
- Once complete, the app will appear in the app drawer of your Android device.
Sports Betting Types
Michigan online sportsbooks have all the betting types you come to expect from betting sites.
Moneyline Bets
The most straight-forward bet type, moneyline wagers involving selecting which side or team will win the game or match.
The favorite has a negative symbol next to its odds while the underdog has a positive symbol next to its line.
Point Spread Bets
Point spread bets are very popular among bettors. As is the case with moneyline bets, the odds for spreads on the favorite come with a negative symbol and the underdog’s odds with a positive symbol. The difference is that rather than just selecting which team will win, point spread bets involve trying to nail down how much a given team will win or lose by.
Here is an example of a point spread:
- Minnesota Vikings +3 (-110)
- Detroit Lions -3 (-110)
The Lions are facing the Vikings at home and are three-point favorites. If you bet on the Lions to cover the spread, they must win by at least four points. At -110 odds, the bettor would have to risk $110 for every $100 in profit.
A bet on the Vikings requires the team to either win or lose by two or less points in order to ‘cover’ the spread. This also comes with -110 odds, which means a $110 stake is needed to win $100.
In the event Detroit wins by exactly three, this game would be marked a ‘push’ and bettors on both sides would have thier original stakes returned to them.
Parlay Bets
Parlays are wagers that combine multiple sides into the same wager in exchanged for enhanced odds. Keep in mind that the bettor must be correct on all of his or her wagers in order to collect the winnings.
So although you will get increased odds for a parlay wager, they are much more difficult to win because all of your bets within the parlay wager must be correct. One loss in a parlay will spoil the entire bet.
Teaser Bets
Teasers are similar to parlays in that they are a collection of bets put into a wager, but there is a key difference as well. Teasers allow you to manipulate lines (points/odds) in order to have a better chance at winning, but you will also receive a lesser payout.
In football, teasers are commonly 6, 6.5, or 7 points. In basketball, they are normally 4, 4.5, or 5 points.
Round Robin Bets
A round-robin bet is a type of parlay that takes your larger bet and breaks it down into several smaller ones with the sides you have selected. There’s always the option to play the larger bet as well but in a round robin, the point is to have several wagers instead of just one.
Rather than one three-team parlay, a round-robin would turn that into three separate two-team parlays. A four-team bet would break down into several two-team and three-team wagers.
This provides some margin for error when placing parlays, which require every single side to win in order for the bet to pay out. For that reason, it’s a fan-favorite among bettors.
When it comes to a round-robin, one (or more, depending on the size of the bet) of your selections can be wrong and you can still make a profit because not every single one of the wagers will have included the team which lost.
Prop Bets
Prop bets or proposition bets, can be seen as a “yes” or “no” wagers on the occurrence of an event happening within a game or match.
For example, a Michigan sportsbook may have a prop that is asking the bettor if they believe D’Andrew Swift will rush for 80 yards or more in a game against the Packers. A bettor interested in this prop will either wager that Swift will gain over 80 yards or he won’t.
Over/Under Bets
Over/Unders, also known as Totals, is a type of wager that involves the total points of a game or match. All you need to do is decide if it will be over the total amount of points set by the sportsbook or if it will go under the total amount.
If the Lions/Vikings total is set at 48.5 points, a total of 48 or less wins it for the under, and 49 or more points would secure an over.
Futures Bets
A futures bet is when a bettor makes a wager for an event that will be settled at a later date. For example, a future bet may be placing a bet on the Tigers winning the AL Central or the World Series, or that the Pistons will make the playoffs.
Futures don’t necessarily have to be that far down the road. Individual sports such as tennis and golf have futures odds for individual tournaments, which don’t last as long as an MLB or NBA regular season.
In-Play/Live Betting
Live betting, also known as in-play betting, allows bettors to wager on a game even after that game has already started.
There are many different types of in-play wagering, including moneylines, spreads, totals, and props. The odds change throughout the game or event, so timing does matter, which is why Michigan sportsbooks apps are so helpful. Online betting gives you the opportunity to place these live bets.
You may even be allowed to wager on specific plays or events within the game, such as at-bats in baseball.
PointsBetting (only on PointsBet)
PointsBetting, which is exclusively offered at PointsBet Sportsbook, is a unique form of high-risk, high-reward sports betting.
PointsBetting rewards or punishes bettors based on how correct or incorrect is their wager. Players can hit a big payday if their wager is correct by a large margin, however, you can also get hit with a significant loss if the opposite occurs.
Learn more about PointsBetting and how it works.
What Sports Can I Bet On In Michigan?
Michigan online sportsbooks offer an abundance of markets for both US and elsewhere around the world. Here are some of the sports that will be available to bet on in Michigan:
- Basketball (NBA, NCAA, and more)
- Football (NFL, NCAA)
- Baseball (MLB, MiLB, KBO, and more)
- Golf (PGA, LPGA, European Tour)
- Hockey (NHL)
- Boxing/MMA (UFC)
- Soccer (EPL, La Liga, MLS, and more)
- Tennis (ATP, WTP)
- Cricket
- Darts
- Table Tennis
Learn How To Bet On NFL Online
Michigan Online College Sports Betting
You can bet on college sports in Michigan, which is great news when you consider the popularity of the college game in the state.
There is access to a number of college events including March Madness and bowl games. And with no known restrictions or limitations, bettors can place all sorts of wagers on college games.
College Basketball
NCAA basketball is one of the most-watched leagues in the US and as you can imagine, it is also one of the most popular sports to bet on.
The regular season is from October until the end of February but the NCAA Tournament, also known as March Madness, is one of the biggest sporting events of the year.
In total, 68 teams advance to the NCAA Tournament and with so many games, bettors get weeks of great betting action.
College Football
We already know how loved the NFL is and that doesn’t change much when it comes to NCAA Football. The season starts in late August and ends in December, with over a hundred games being played on every Saturday during the fall season.
The NCAA football postseason has around 40 bowl games and concludes with the top four teams playing in the College Football Playoff.
The playoff features two semifinal contests followed by the national championship. The semifinals are on generally held on New Year’s Eve and the championship takes place in the second week of January.
Can I Bet On Michigan College Sports Teams?
Yes, unlike the New Jersey law, you can bet on local college teams in Michigan.
Can You Earn VIP Rewards From An MI Sports Betting Site?
Yes, you can earn VIP rewards from a MI sports betting site, assuming the online sportsbook has a VIP reward program.
Here are some of the possible VIP benefits:
- Loyalty Store: Earn points and redeem for prices
- Express Comps at Partnering Casino
- Free Play and Cash Redemption
- Special Bonus Promotions
The Legal History Behind Sports Betting In Michigan
After PASPA was overturned by the Supreme Court, Michigan was able to approve state legislation to make sports betting legal. On December 20, 2019, Governor Gretchen Whitmer signed into law two bills. These bills legalized sports betting (both online and in-person, online casinos, and online poker. Fantasy sports was also made legal in this process.
On March 11, 2020, MGM Grand and Greektown were the first casinos to take sports bets.
There will be an 8.4 percent revenue tax on sports betting. Commercial casinos with sportsbook licenses in Detroit must pay a 1.25 percent tax.
Authorized Online Sports Betting Vs. Illegal Online Sports Betting
Authorized Michigan sportsbooks are regulated by the state and are completely legal and safe. This is unlike illegal or offshore sportsbooks, which do not provide the same protections.
MI Authorized Online Sports Betting
- Sportsbooks are regulated by the Michigan Gaming Control Board.
- Banking information will be secure.
- No concerns about withdrawing money from a betting site.
- Betting odds will be better at legal sportsbooks.
- Expect better welcome bonuses and promotions when compared to offshore sportsbooks.
Illegal Online Sportsbooks
- Offshore sites do not have any regulatory measures in place.
- It is actually illegal for these sportsbooks to accept US payments for gambling purposes.
- Your banking information is not guaranteed to be secured.
- Withdrawals may be difficult or delayed and there is no course of action you can take.
- Many banks decline offshore sportsbook transactions.
- Betting lines tend to not be as strong as legally operated sportsbooks in the US.
Who Can Get An MI Authorized Sportsbook License?
The three Detroit casinos and the 23 tribal casinos can apply for a sports betting license from the Michigan Gaming Control Board. The license application fee is $50,000 and the license itself is $100,000. Each year, sportsbooks must renew their license for $50,000.
Michigan Gaming Control Board
The Michigan Gaming Control Board (MGCB) is responsible for overseeing all gambling activity in the state. They put in place the rules and regulations that casinos and sportsbooks must adhere to.
Responsible Gaming
There are protections put in place to ensure responsible gambling in Michigan. You can visit the MGCB website for more information on how to deal with problem gambling. But there are some things you can also do to protect yourself:
- Don’t sign up for an online gambling site that isn’t licensed to operate. Protect yourself from fraud or poor betting markets.
- Don’t risk or bet money that you cannot afford to lose. Gambling should be seen as a form of entertainment.
- You can set deposit limits, or use the utilities offered by sports betting sites, including time limits, wagering limits, or self-exclusion.
Online Gambling Frequently Asked Questions
Is Gambling Illegal In MI?
Yes, gambling, both online and land-based is legal in Michigan. You can make sports bets online, as well as play at Michigan online casinos.
How Old Do I Need To Be To Gamble In MI?
You need to be at least 21 years of age to gambling in Michigan.
Are MI Online Sportsbooks Safe?
Yes, as long as the Michigan sports betting sites are regulated by the state, they are safe and legal.
Can I Win Real Money At MI Online Sportsbooks?
Yes, you can win real money at online sportsbooks.
Can You Bet On College Sports In Michigan?
Yes, you can bet on college sports in Michigan.
Is MyBookie Legal In MI?
No, MyBookie is not regulated by Michigan and is illegal in not only the state but in all of the US.
When Did Gambling Become Legal In MI?
Land-based sportsbooks opened for business in March 2020, while online betting launched in January 2021. Inititally, sports betting in Michigan was signed into law by Governor Gretchen Whitmer on December 20, 2019.
Can I Bet On Sports With My PC or Mac?
Yes, you can bet on sports with your PC or Mac.
Which MI Online Sportsbooks Accept PayPal?
Most Michigan sportsbooks accept PayPal, as it is one of the most popular eWallets in the world and incredibly popular among regulated betting sites in the United States.
How Do MI Gambling Sites Acquire My Location?
Michigan sports betting sites acquire your location with advanced geolocation technology. This ensures no one can illegally gamble outside of the state.
Do I Have To Pay Taxes On My Winnings?
Yes, you must pay taxes on your winnings.
What Is Sports Betting Handle?
The handle is the total monetary amount of bets placed at a gambling site. This can be referred to as a specific game (i.e. Jets vs. Pats,) type of wager (Moneyline) or overall handle, which is the example given in the answer above.
Who Regulates Online MI Sportsbooks?
The Michigan Gaming Control Board is responsible for the regulation of Michigan sportsbooks.
Are There Any Sports Betting Restrictions?
The most notable sports betting restrictions in Michigan are high school and amateur sports.