Best Michigan Sports Betting Sites: Promos, Reviews, and Bonuses
Michigan sports betting is fully legal as of March 2020, and online betting sites were able to launch in January 2021. It did not take Michigan long to become a large sports gambling industry, especially once the online sportsbooks became available.
Online sports betting has transformed the entire industry in Michigan, and it has made it much easier for bettors to place a wager. This article will discuss some of the top online betting options in Michigan and will discuss the top features of each site.
Bonuses or promo codes are also readily available in Michigan, and this review will discuss how to get the best options available.
Top Michigan Sports Betting Sites
In order to get a Michigan sports betting license, operators were forced to partner with a commercial or tribal casino. Since there are just three commercial casinos in Michigan, most of the operators have been inking deals with Native American tribes.
The Michigan Gaming Control Board receives all of the license applications and then decides whether to grant a license or not. This state has seen a number of the top sports betting operators launch in the state, and more could still be on the way.
This is a state that is extremely competitive in this industry, but there are some operators that stand out among the rest. Here is a look at some of the top sportsbooks in Michigan and their top features on the site.
DraftKings Sportsbook MI
DraftKings Sportsbook is available in Michigan, and this operator is always one of the best in whichever state it is available. DraftKings also offers an online casino in Michigan as well as a daily fantasy sports site.
In order to obtain a sports betting license in the state, Michigan formed a partnership with the Bay Mills Indian Community. There is a highly-rated mobile app that is available for download on both Android and iOS devices.
DraftKings Sportsbook offers a number of live betting options as well as has competitive betting odds and lines. This is also an operator that has a terrific welcome offer, but it comes with great promotions for existing customers as well.
All new customers at DraftKings are eligible for a welcome bonus that rewards new users with $200 in free bets if their initial $5 NFL pre-game moneyline bet is a winner.
| ✅ DraftKings Michigan Promo Code: | Click Here to Claim |
| ⏳ DraftKings MI Welcome Offer: | Bet $5 on NFL, Win $200 if Your Team Wins |
| 📱 Betting App: | Yes |
| 💰 Playthrough: | 1x |
| 📅 Live Since: | 2018 |
FanDuel Sportsbook Michigan
FanDuel Sportsbook is the online sports betting leader in the United States, and it entered Michigan through a partnership with the MotorCity Casino. MotorCity Casino is one of the commercial properties in Detroit, and retail sports betting is available there as well.
FanDuel Sportsbook offers a "Bet $5, Get $150 in free bets, win or lose" promotion for new customers in the state, which is one of the best bonuses that you will find. This site is known for coming up with some creative betting options as well, including the same game parlay.
The mobile app that is available from FanDuel Sportsbook is one of the best on the market, and this site is known for having a terrific customer support team. FanDuel Sportsbook is another operator that has an online casino option attached to the mobile app as well.
| 💸 FanDuel Michigan Promo Code: | Click Here To Claim |
| ⏳ FanDuel MI Welcome Offer: | No Sweat First Bet up to $1,000 |
| 💳 Minimum Deposit: | $10 |
| 💰 Playthrough: | None |
| ✔️ App Available: | Yes |
| 🏪 Retail Partner | Tioga Downs |
| 📆 Established: | 2009 |
BetMGM Michigan Sports Betting
BetMGM is a product of MGM Resorts International, and that company is a huge name in the gaming industry. BetMGM has sort of joined the U.S. sports betting industry a bit later than some of the other options that you will see on this list.
The MGM Grand Detroit is one of three commercial properties in the state, and that allowed the BetMGM app to launch without obtaining a special license. Since BetMGM is partnered with one of the top casinos, it has become a leader in Michigan online sports betting up to this point.
The initial welcome offer from BetMGM Sportsbook is a first-bet offer worth up to $1,000, and this is an operator that is also known for having a great rewards program. BetMGM has a wide range of banking options available, and bettors can also visit the MGM Grand Detroit to make a deposit. However, you don't need to visit the MGM Grand Detroit to sign up.
| 💸 BetMGM MI Bonus Code: | REALGM |
| ⏳ BetMGM Michigan Welcome Offer: | First-Bet Offer Worth Up to $1,000! |
| 💳 Minimum Deposit: | $10 |
| 📅 Established: | 2018 |
| 💰 Playthrough: | None |
Caesars Sportsbook MI
Caesars Sportsbook is one of the newest online gambling sites to launch in Michigan, but it simply changed the name from an existing online sportsbook. Caesars purchased William Hill back in 2021, and a rebrand was all that was needed for the Caesars name to become available.
There is a partnership with the Grand Traverse Bay Band of Ottawa and Chippewa Indians that has allowed William Hill/Caesars into the state. The Caesars name is not new to the gaming industry, though, and Caesars has also attracted customers with a terrific promo code.
New customers at Caesars are eligible to receive up to $1,250 of first-bet insurance, plus 1,000 Tier Credits and 1,000 Reward Credits.
Caesars has a mobile app that can be downloaded on both Android and iOS devices, and it is an app that works extremely well.
| ✅ Caesars Sportsbook MI Promo Code: | REALGMFULL |
| ⏳ Caesars Sportsbook Michigan Welcome Offer: | Up to $1,250 on Caesars + 1,000 Tier Credits and 1,000 Reward Credits |
| 💳 Minimum Deposit: | $20 on Digital Deposits |
| 📅 Established: | 2018 |
| 💰 Playthrough: | 1x |
SI Sportsbook Michigan
888 Holdings launched Sports Illustrated Sportsbook in Colorado in 2021 after partnering with the magazine’s parent Authentic Brands Group. 888 Holdings, a London gambling giant, previously launched its flagship brand – 888 Sport – into the US market, but it was unsuccessful, so it decided to try again with SI Sportsbook.
SI Sportsbook MI became the latest online sportsbook in the Michigan when it launched in Sept. 2022. It took the place TwinSpires at the Island Resort & Casino’s platform provider after TwinSpires left the online sports betting industry. The SI Sportsbook MI Promo Code REALGM provides new users with a Bet $20, Win $100 welcome offer.
| ✅ Si Sportsbook Michigan Promo Code: | REALGM |
| ⏳ SI Sportsbook MI Welcome Offer: | Bet $20, Win $100 |
| 📱 Betting App: | Yes |
| 💰 Playthrough: | 1x |
| 📅 Live Since: | 2022 |
PointsBet Sports Betting MI
PointsBet is an Australian-based sports betting operator, but it has found plenty of success in the United States. In an effort to obtain a sports betting license in Michigan, PointsBet partnered with the Lac Vieux Desert Band of Lake Superior Chippewa Indians.
PointsBet Sportsbook is known for doing things much differently than other traditional sportsbooks, including offering a brand new betting option. The welcome offer from PointsBet is worth up to $800. All new customers at PointsBet will receive a risk free bet worth up to $200 for each of their first four days on the site, triggered on Betting Day 1. Only the first wager of each day counts toward the promotion.
PointsBet is known for having plenty of daily and weekly promotions, and it offers a mobile app for both types of devices.
FOX Bet Sportsbook Michigan
FOX Bet Sportsbook has partnered with the Little Traverse Bay Bands of Odawa Indians to offer sports betting in Michigan. Not only does FOX Bet offer online sports betting, but there is an online casino option offered by this provider as well.
FOX Bet offers a welcome bonus that includes free bets up to $500, which is still a terrific offer. FOX Sports backs this online sportsbook, and the focus of this online app centers around the NFL, but other sports are offered as well.
Another great feature of the FOX Bet Sportsbook is that there are a number of free-to-play games available. FOX Bet sportsbook is still relatively new compared to some of the competition, but it will only become more popular over time.
BetRivers Sportsbook MI
BetRivers has partnered with the Little River Band of Ottawa Indians to enter the Michigan sports gambling industry, and Rush Street Gaming powers this sportsbook app. The BetRivers name has become a huge factor throughout the United States, but it hasn't gotten off to a great start in Michigan.
BetRivers has a pretty solid welcome bonus that acts as a deposit bonus. New customers that sign up at the site or through the mobile app will receive a risk-free bet up to $500.
BetRivers is a site that is known for having odds boosts each day, and there is typically a long list of them available. There is still some work left to do for BetRivers, but it is still one of the top sportsbooks in the state.
Golden Nugget Sportsbook Michigan
Golden Nugget is a name that is big in the online casino industry, but it offers sports betting in this state as well. This sportsbook app is not a name that you hear much of, but it has built up a solid presence and following in Michigan.
Golden Nugget offers new customers a $250 risk free bet, but there are also ways to combine bonuses on both the sportsbook and the online casino. The Keweenaw Bay Indiana Community is the local partner with Golden Nugget in Michigan, and retail sports betting is offered as well.
The online casino offering from Golden Nugget will continue to be an attractive option, but sports betting is available as well.
Michigan Sportsbooks That Didn’t Make The Cut:
Even though there are plenty of Michigan sports betting licenses available, not all operators were able to obtain a license. Some big names are still missing from the Michigan sports wagering industry, and there are a number of reasons why this is the case.
The best Michigan sports betting operators are pretty clear, but there are also those that are missing completely. Here are three operators that are seen in the United States but have not been able to obtain a license in this state.
Unibet
Unibet is an international online gambling operator that focuses on both online sports betting and online casino gambling.
Unibet is going to come into the Michigan sports betting market at some point, and it should happen in 2022. This will add another top operator and will make this state even more competitive.
There have been a number of issues for Unibet as it has attempted to launch an online sports betting site and app. Once these issues are resolved then this will become the newest betting option in Michigan.
theScore Bet
theScore Bet is available in four states in the U.S., including two in the Midwest.
The reason that theScore Bet is not currently in Michigan is because there just aren't enough casino partners to go around. Michigan would be an attractive market for theScore Bet, but it seems unlikely that there is a chance to launch anytime soon.
SuperBook
The Westgate SuperBook is known for hosting massive NFL pick 'em contests, and it has started to expand out of the state of Nevada.
While the SuperBook has started to move into other legal sports betting states, Michigan is not on the list at this time. Location is one reason that the SuperBook is not available, but finding a partner is another reason why.
There is a chance that Unibet could be coming to the state at some point, but nothing is official.
Mobile Sports Betting Apps in Michigan
Mobile sports betting apps are available in the state of Michigan and can be downloaded on both Android and iOS devices. These are slightly different than mobile sports betting sites as you can simply log into your account and begin betting.
These mobile apps have made the Michigan sports gambling industry one of the top options in the United States. All of the sportsbooks discussed above will offer a mobile app that is legal in Michigan.
When signing up for a sports betting app, try to find a promo code you can use to your advantage. Oftentimes, a promo code can snag you an advantage like a free bet, a bet match, and more.
Michigan Sports To Wager On
The sports betting law in Michigan is beneficial to both bettors and the sports betting operator. Michigan sportsbooks can offer betting options on a wide range of sports, but there are a few that stand out above the rest.
The top professional sports in the U.S. will continue to draw the most betting action, especially in a state like Michigan with popular professional teams.
Football Betting (NFL)
It is somewhat ironic that football is the last professional sport on this list because it is easily the most popular. The NFL is King when it comes to the United States, and it always draws more betting action than the other professional sports.
Football is a fun sport to bet on because it comes with more wagering options than the other top professional sports. The NFL has also done a nice job of jumping on board with the legal sports gambling movement.
The Super Bowl is the one event that attracts those most bettors, but every game throughout the season is popular to wager on as well.
Hockey Betting (NHL)
Hockey is not a popular sport to wager on throughout the United States, but it is viewed differently in Michigan. This sport is a part of the culture in this state, and sports fans follow it more closely than in some other states.
The NHL Stanley Cup Playoffs are extremely entertaining each year, and that is when most of the top hockey action will come in. Hockey is also a popular sport to wager on when it's time for the Winter Olympics every four years.
Basketball Betting (NBA)
Basketball, specifically the NBA, is the second-most popular sport in the United States. The NBA has made a conscious effort over the years to align itself with sports betting, and that plan has worked out well.
The NBA regular season is 82 games long, giving bettors plenty of opportunities to make a wager. The regular season is popular to wager on, but things really start to heat up in the NBA Playoffs.
NBA All-Star Weekend is another time where betting action picks up as sportsbooks find unique ways to market the events.
Baseball Betting (MLB)
MLB is known as America's pastime, but it has started to become less popular with the younger generation. Baseball is still a great sport to wager on, especially since each team plays 162 regular season games.
There are two major betting events when it comes to MLB: The MLB All-Star Game and the World Series. Not only are these two events the biggest in the sport, but each will come with unique betting opportunities.
Michigan Professional Sports Teams
Now that we have discussed the most popular sports leagues, it's time to take a look at the professional teams in Michigan. The teams listed below are going to attract the most sports bets in this state, but there are other options as well.
Michigan bettors are fortunate that there are teams from each of the four major professional sports leagues in this state. Sportsbooks are going to offer more sports betting options on the local teams than other teams, and you will also see promo codes surrounding these teams as well.
You don't have to wager on the teams listed below, but you won't be able to ignore the sports betting options you see at online betting sites.
Detroit Lions (NFL)
The Detroit Lions compete in the NFC North Division, and it has not been a good century for this team. Detroit tends to find itself at the bottom of the standings year after year, but that hasn't kept fans from supporting the franchise. The Lions play their home games at Ford Field.
The Lions were the first team in NFL history to go winless in a 16-game season, and they are one of four teams that haven't competed in a Super Bowl. However, new head coach Dan Campbell seems to be steering the team in the right direction, and there's hope on the horizon in the Motor City.
Detroit Tigers (MLB)
The Detroit Tigers have a long history of success in Major League Baseball, but that success hasn't translated over the past decade. Detroit has won four World Series titles, but the most recent one came all the way back in 1984. Baseball is a popular sport in Michigan and the Tigers continue to have a strong fan base.
Detroit has sent 12 players to the Baseball Hall of Fame who spent a majority of their time with the Tigers, tied for seventh-most of any MLB franchise. Two more players should be entering in the near future once pitcher Justin Verlander and first baseman Miguel Cabrera retire.
Detroit Red Wings (NHL)
Detroit is known as "Hockeytown, USA," and that speaks to the success of the Detroit Red Wings franchise. The Red Wings have won 11 Stanley Cup titles, the most of any American team and the third-most overall, but the most recent championship came back in 2008. Hockey might not be as popular in other parts of the United States, but that isn't the case in Michigan, where they can't get enough.
The Red Wings are an "Original 6" franchise, meaning they were one of the first six members of the National Hockey League. They also started one of the more bizarre traditions in sports, which involved throwing an octopus onto the ice during the playoffs. This is because teams used to need to win eight playoff games to win the Stanley Cup, so Red Wings fans thought it would be good luck.
Detroit Pistons (NBA)
The Detroit Pistons had a great run at the beginning of the century, and they were also great in the 1980s. Things have not gone well of late for the Pistons, but they continue to have a massive following in the state. Detroit is a member of the Central Division in the Eastern Conference.
Several of the all-time NBA greats have come through the Pistons organization, including Isiah Thomas, Bill Laimbeer, Joe Dumars, and Ben Wallace. Hard-nosed defense has always been a calling card for the franchise.
Other Popular Michigan Sports Betting Options
The top professional sports leagues are not the only legal betting options in Michigan. There are other unique betting opportunities as well, but there are also some options that are restricted by the Michigan Gaming Control Board.
Daily Fantasy Sports
Daily fantasy sports are another popular betting option in Michigan, and there is some crossover between this industry and legal sports betting. DraftKings Sportsbook and FanDuel are the two biggest names when it comes to DFS, but there are other options that are legal in Michigan. The Michigan Gaming Control Board is also in charge of regulating these options.
Horse Racing
The horse racing industry in Michigan dates all the way back to 1933 and continues to play a key role in the culture of this state. Most horse race betting is done at the track or an off-track betting site, but online gambling apps will feature options for sports bettors as well.
Elections
Elections are not something that can be wagered on in the state of Michigan. There are rules in the United States that must be followed when it comes to political elections, and those don't fall under the sports category. This could always change at some point, but don't expect election betting to become a legal option.
Pop Culture Ceremonies
Pop culture ceremonies or awards shows such as the Grammy's and the ESPY's are entertaining, but they are not betting options in Michigan. Since these awards are traditionally voted on by a set group of people, that brings in some questions about the validity of the results.
eSports
The world of esports has grown tremendously over the last few years, and this is now a popular betting option in some states. The Michigan Gaming Control Board does not allow for online sports betting sites to offer this type of bet yet, but that could change. There are specific esports leagues that have become popular in this industry.
Promotions & Offers At Michigan Online Sportsbooks
Sportsbooks offer promotions and other offers as a way to attract new customers in this competitive industry. This isn't a requirement of a sportsbook, but it will put them behind other options if something isn't offered. Sometimes, this comes in the form of a promo code while other times it will just be an automatic process.
New sports bettors should always be on the lookout for the best promo codes and promotions to take advantage of the bonuses. These are great rewards that can get a bettor off to a great start in this industry.
Risk-Free Bets
A risk free bet is a common welcome bonus that you will see, and it usually applies to the first bet placed at the sportsbook. It is not uncommon to see a $1,000 risk free bet offered by the top sportsbooks in this industry.
The negative of a risk free bet is that you first have to make a deposit to get the bonus. The biggest positive is that this is basically an insurance policy, and it's worth taking a big risk with the first bet.
Deposit Match
A deposit match is usually the most desirable welcome bonus that is available because it's essentially receiving free money. Sportsbooks are willing to match the amount of money that you initially deposit when you enter a promo code, and the money will automatically show up in your account.
Another positive of this type of bonus is that it is usually one that is offered to existing customers as well. The only con is when an online sportsbook will set a limit or only offer a percentage deposit match.
Referral Bonuses
A referral bonus is available to existing customers at an online sports betting site, and that operator is looking to pay you for bringing new customers to the site. All you have to do is share a specific referral link or promo code, and you would then receive a bonus if your friend signs up for an account as well.
The biggest advantage of this promotion is that you have to do very little work in order to put yourself in a position to receive this bonus. One con is that the person you refer will also have to make a deposit of a certain amount before the bonus is unlocked.
Odds Boosts
An odds boost is a promotion that is usually available to existing customers, which is unique. Sportsbooks are going to select specific games to target with an odds boost and then will typically set a wagering limit.
The biggest negative to an odds boost is that you won't be able to choose your own games to boost. This is still a great offer and a chance to win additional money by taking advantage of the offer.
How To Choose an Online Sportsbook In Michigan
Choosing the right online sportsbook is really the first and most important step to having some success in this industry. This might seem like an overwhelming process at first, but there are ways to make this something that is manageable.
This section will cover some of the most important features of an online sportsbook, and we will provide a brief description of those options. Different features might be more important to you, but you still need to have a good idea of what you should be looking for.
Keep in mind that when registering for an online sports gambling account, you don't need to sign up in person, so if you're in the U.P., you won't need to make the trek down to MGM Grand Detroit to get registered. All you need is to work through their identity verification software and you're good to go.
Variety Of Bets Allowed
The Michigan Gaming Control Board gives online sportsbooks plenty of freedom, and most of the top sites take full advantage. This means that sites are allowed to offer a wide range of sports to bet on, and there are also plenty of good betting types offered.
When you are choosing the best sportsbook you are going to want to find an option that is loaded with good sports betting options. This will provide extra chances to win some money, which could, in turn, lead to you making more money.
Competitive Lines and Odds
The top Michigan betting sites are going to have the most competitive lines and betting odds in the industry. There is a big advantage for each site to have the best odds, and those are typically the best sites that you want to use.
You are also going to benefit from signing up for several different sports betting accounts. This will give you the opportunity to compare betting lines and odds to ensure you are getting the best value for your bets.
Frequency Of Betting Bonuses
A promo code is a common phrase used in the sports betting industry, and this describes the opportunity to get a reward of some kind for signing up for an account. The top online sports betting sites will also have frequent bonuses for returning customers, which is another added feature.
It's never a good idea to sign up for an account without first getting a betting bonus of some kind, whether a promo code for a free bet, a deposit bet match, or a risk free wager. The bonus or promotional options are also changing constantly, and you will want to check back to make sure that you are getting the best value.
User-Friendly Interface
If you aren't big into technology then you might not even know what the word interface means. Don't be scared off though, as we'll explain it to you!
In simple terms, the interface details how easy sites are to use, and also includes how fast the sites or the mobile betting apps operate. It's all the behind-the-scenes features that make an app run, smoothly or otherwise.
Typically mobile apps are going to be much easier to use than online websites, but only for the top legal options in the state. The mobile apps that mirror the online sites are usually what you want to look for because that will cut down on the confusion.
Ease Of Deposits and Withdrawal
Banking is a huge part of the legal sports betting experience, and it's important to find a site that has a wide range of deposit options. Sites that only feature a couple of deposit options will make it harder to fund your account and can lead to some delays in betting.
If you win money at an online sportsbook then you are going to want your money in a timely manner. The best betting sites will feature a quick withdrawal process that is extremely painless and easy to complete.
Customer Support
Customer support can play a huge role in selecting an online sportsbook, and it's going to have a major impact if you ever run into trouble. Before you ever make a deposit at a site, it's a good idea to first check out the customer support options.
Sites that offer live chat are generally going to be ranked higher than those that don't. Email is another great customer support option, especially for the sites that will promise a response within 24 hours or less.
Bet Types & Sports Wagers At Legal Michigan Sportsbooks
Not only are you going to see a wide range of sports offered by Michigan betting sites, but you will also see many different bet types. Each bet type is going to be a little bit different, and the lines and odds will work differently as well.
If a betting type is offered by an online sportsbook, then you are safe to assume that it is a legal option that can be made available. We will use Michigan sports teams to help explain some of these betting types.
Moneyline
A moneyline wager is the easiest bet to make because all you have to do is pick the winning team or winning individual in a betting matchup. There will be different odds set for each betting option and that will determine the amount of money that can be won.
An example of a moneyline bet would be taking the Detroit Red Wings -145 over the hated Chicago Blackhawks.
Parlays
Parlays have become extremely popular because sports betting fans are always looking to find the biggest potential payout that is possible. With a parlay bet, you are simply combining several different bets into one large combination wager.
All of the "legs" or bets must hit in order for the parlay to be a successful wager. Taking the Red Wings, Lions, and Pistons all to win outright would be an example of a parlay.
Totals
Totals betting is pretty unique because this has nothing to do with the winning and losing team. A totals bet simply focuses on the total number of points, goals, or runs, that are scored.
An example of a totals bet would be taking the over in total points in an NBA game featuring the Detroit Pistons and the Indiana Pacers.
Point Spreads
Point spread bets, or "betting against the spread", is extremely popular when it comes to basketball and football. This is a step up from moneyline wagering because you have to pick the winner, but also how far apart the final spread will be.
Taking the Detroit Lions -4.5 over the Green Bay Packers means that the Lions would have to win the NFL game by at least five points to win the bet.
Futures
Futures bets are for bettors that have some patience as it might take a long time before these bets are settled. Most futures bets are placed on a team to win an upcoming championship or for a player to win a particular individual award.
Betting on the Detroit Tigers to win the 2023 World Series is an example of a futures bet that might be common in the state of Michigan.
Prop Bets
Prop betting is most known for being offered during the Super Bowl, but you will now find this type of bet available in regular season matchups for every sport. Prop betting can focus on team or player stats, or they can be unique and fun types of wagers.
Betting on the power to go out at Ford Field in Detroit during a Lions game would be one possible example of a fun prop betting option.
Live Bets
Live betting continues to become more popular, and sports betting apps have really helped lead the charge. When you are placing a live bet, you are making a wager in real-time and as the action is unfolding on the court, diamond, or football field.
Taking the Michigan Wolverines to come back and upset the Ohio State Buckeyes after trailing at half is an example of a live bet.
Online Poker
Though not technically a sport (depending on who you ask), online poker is another legal betting option in Michigan. Most commonly, you'd see games like Blackjack or Texas Hold'Em, but you may see other more niche online casino games as well when visiting online casinos.
Be mindful of which online gaming sites you register with, as some sites are more secure than others. As a general rule of thumb, if an online poker offer seems too good to be true, it probably is. For that matter, apply that rule to any online gambling you decide to do.
Sometimes, online gambling sites will partner with online casinos. This is usually a good indicator that your information will be safe and secure, as the Michigan Gaming Control Board keeps a close eye on those sites to ensure everything is above board.
Offshore Betting Sites
Offshore betting sites are online casinos or other websites that offer sports betting but are not subject to the same oversight. Because they operate outside of U.S. borders (thus the "offshore" factor), offshore gambling sites play somewhat fast and loose with the rules.
While they are still legal to use, Michigan sports bettors should be wary
Prohibited Bets
A prohibited bet is something that cannot be offered by sports betting sites in the state of Michigan. Online sports betting options have to follow the rules and regulations that are established by the Michigan Gaming Control Board.
The sports betting law in Michigan does not allow for any esports betting to be offered at the online sportsbooks.
Michigan Sporting Partners
Since Michigan has such a strong sports culture with professional sports teams, it was only natural that those two industries have collided. These partnerships benefit both sides of the deal and also played a key role in the advancement of the sports betting market.
Since football is the biggest sport in the state, striking a deal with the Detroit Lions was the ultimate prize. Both WynnBET and BetMGM have deals in place with the Lions, but other deals have emerged as well.
Detroit Lions: WynnBET, BetMGM
BetMGM was the first sportsbook operator to strike a deal with the Lions, doing so back in September 2020. Because this was not an exclusive deal, WynnBET was also able to partner with the team in 2021.
Both companies are offered promotional opportunities in and around Ford Field, and each has a presence on the digital site of the Detroit Lions.
Detroit Red Wings: FanDuel, PointsBet
Since hockey is extremely popular in Michigan, earning a partnership with the Detroit Red Wings is another huge deal. Both FanDuel and PointsBet were able to strike deals with the team, but it was PointsBet who got a deal done first.
The deal with PointsBet named the company an "official gaming partner" of the Red Wings, and that gave it access to team data and logos. FanDuel is a partner of the NHL already, and adding a specific deal with the Detroit Red Wings added to that partnership.
Detroit Tigers: BetMGM, FanDuel, PointsBet
The Detroit Tigers are another iconic and historic professional team in the state, and this franchise was able to land three partnerships. Comerica Park is the home of the Tigers and there will be plenty of signage in the stadium when the team takes the field in 2022.
All three of these sports betting partners with the Tigers will receive
How to Deposit and Withdraw from Michigan Sports Betting Sites
Using a credit/debit card is still one way to fund your sports betting account, but there are now more options than ever before. You can also use options such as PayPal and Neteller, and that will allow money to go back and forth quickly.
Linking an e-wallet option to your sports betting account is going to prove to be a big benefit, because you will have less processing time. Each sports betting site will have its own banking options for you to consider using.
Finally, if you are able to win some money when betting on sports then you are going to want to deal with that site directly. You can access your account and then click on the withdrawal link to begin this process. There will be a handful of options, but each option might come with a different timetable for payment.
How Michigan Sports Betting Compares to the Other Legal States
The Michigan sports betting industry compares very favorably to other states in the United States, especially in the Midwest. This is a state that has many sports betting licenses available, and the MGCB has done a good job of approving the licenses.
Mobile registration is available as well, and that makes it extremely easy to sign up for an online sports betting account. Favorable betting laws are in place, and that gives sportsbooks plenty of options when it comes to different sports and betting types.
Michigan is a top-10 market in terms of size, and it should stay in that position moving forward.
Retail Sports Betting vs. Mobile Sports Betting
Retail sports betting in Michigan is the more traditional form of sports betting, but the negative is that it will require some travel. One advantage to betting at retail sportsbooks is that you don't have to worry about your information being stolen or compromised online. While this is an exceptionally rare issue, it's still a possibility, adding extra appeal to the retail sportsbooks.
Mobile sports betting is done at online sportsbooks, and this makes the process much simpler. Bets can be placed without ever leaving your home, but you do miss out on the experience of visiting a retail location. Sports bets made at mobile betting sites are often more convenient for Michigan bettors.
Michigan Legal Sports Betting Legislation Timeline
- 2015-16: Representative Rob Kosowski introduces sports betting legislation in two consecutive years.
- 2017: The Lawful Internet Gaming Act is passed through a committee in an attempt to legalize online casinos and sports betting.
- 2018: Lawful Internet Gaming Act passes through both chambers but the sports betting bill is vetoed by then-Governor Rick Snyder
- 2019: Governor Gretchen Whitmer signs a number of gaming expansion bills, making sports betting legal in Michigan.
- 2020: The first retail sportsbooks open up in the state in March. Days later, the casinos would be shut down due to COVID-19.
- 2021: Michigan online sports betting goes live in January. Other forms of online gambling are also legalized and launched at the same time.
Michigan Legal Online Sports Betting Tax Rate
The tax rate of sports betting revenue in Michigan is slightly less than average, and it compares favorably to markets of a similar size. Online sportsbooks are taxed at 8.4% for tribal properties, and the Detroit properties pay 11%.
Illinois has a tax rate of 15 percent, and that makes Michigan more attractive to potential operators. Other states such as New York and New Hampshire have set a tax rate of 51% for all online sports betting revenue.
Responsible Betting in Michigan
The Michigan Gaming Control Board has resources for responsible betting on its website, but the sites in Michigan do as well. Sports betting sites want to make money from bettors, but they don't want to take advantage of problem bettors.
Each sportsbook will provide links and resources for bettors to use if there is a chance that betting has become irresponsible. There is also an opportunity to take a time-out and reset for bettors, and that will lock them out of their account for a set time period.
Where To Bet in Michigan Now
If you still want to visit a retail sportsbook and place your bets, you are going to be in luck when betting in Michigan. The Michigan sports betting market has retail options at commercial and tribal casinos in the state.
A Michigan sportsbook app might make things easier, but it does take away from the experience. Here is a list of the in-person sports betting locations and the online sportsbooks they have partnered with:
- FireKeepers Casino Hotel: SG Digital
- Four Winds (Dowagiac, Hartford, New Buffalo): Kambi
- Greektown Casino Hotel: Barstool Sportsbook
- Gun Lake Casino: Parx Sportsbook
- Island Resort & Casino: TwinSpires
- Leelanau Sands Casino: Caesars Sportsbook
- Little River Casino and Resort: BetRivers
- MGM Grand Detroit: BetMGM
- MotorCity Casino Hotel: FanDuel
- Northern Waters Casino Resort: PointsBet
- Turtle Creek Casino and Hotel: Caesars Sportsbook
Final Thoughts on Michigan Sports Betting
Sports betting in Michigan has turned into a massive market with plenty of legal options. Online sportsbooks in the state see much of the action, but betting can also be done at commercial casinos and tribal casinos.
When creating an online sports betting account, you will want to look for a promo code in order to unlock a special offer from that site. These bonuses can get you on the right track before you even place your first wager.
Michigan Sports Betting FAQ
Is Sports Betting Legal in Michigan?
Yes, Michigan legalized sports betting in March 2020. Online sports betting became available in January 2021.
How old do I need to be to bet on sports in Michigan?
Bettors must be at least 21 years of age to bet on sports in Michigan. That information gets verified when signing up for a sportsbook.
How are betting winnings taxed in Michigan?
Yes, sports betting winnings are taxed and will have to be filed on an income tax return.
Where can I bet at Michigan sportsbooks?
Commercial casinos and tribal casinos have retail sportsbooks, and you can also wager at an online sportsbook.
Are there Michigan sports betting apps?
Yes, Michigan sports betting apps are offered by sports betting operators that have a license. These apps are available for download on both Android and iOS devices. Look around to see if there is a promo code you can use while signing up for a chance at free bets, a bet match, or other great offers.
Do I need to be a Michigan resident to bet online?
No, you do not have to be a resident of Michigan to place a wager online, but you do have to be physically in the state to make a bet.
Who Regulates Sports Betting Sites in Michigan?
The Michigan Gaming Control Board regulates all of the online sports betting sites in the state. Beyond sports wagering, the MGCB also regulates horse racing, the state lottery, casinos, bingo halls, and raffles.