Michigan legal sports betting is thriving. In-person sports betting launched in March 2020, with online wagering kicking off in January 2021. Right now, there are 12 online sports betting apps available to download in Michigan, including crowd favorites like BetMGM and FanDuel.
In this complete guide, we'll provide you with details on the best sportsbook options and explain how to get started. We'll also detail the state’s path toward legal sports betting and cover the rapidly changing Michigan sports betting landscape.
Is Sports Betting Legal In Michigan?
Yes, sports betting is legal in Michigan. Gov. Gretchen Whitmer made it official with the signing of HB 4916 in 2019. Retail sportsbooks made their debut in March 2020, followed by the launch of online sports betting in January 2021.
The marketplace is competitive and has steadily grown since its debut, with numerous options for bettors in the state to choose from. Michigan is one of the top markets for legal online wagering in the U.S. and is poised to remain that way.
Are Online Casinos Legal In Michigan?
Online casinos are legal and live in Michigan. The official launch happened in January 2021, following the passage of the Lawful Internet Gaming Act in December 2019. The Michigan Gaming Control Board regulates a market that prioritizes player safety and features numerous licensed operators offering a diverse range of options.
Leading legal online casinos in Michigan include BetMGM, Caesars, and DraftKings. Players must be 21 years or older to participate in online casino gaming, and be physically located within state borders to legally access real-money online casinos. Operators use geolocation technology and identity verification to enforce these requirements.
Are Sweepstakes Casinos Legal In Michigan?
The Michigan Gaming Control Board (MGCB) has taken a firm enforcement stance against sweepstakes casino platforms. The MGCB considers sweepstakes casinos to be operating illegally under existing state gambling laws and has issued multiple cease-and-desist letters to operators serving Michigan residents.
Following these enforcement actions, most major sweepstakes casino operators have blocked access to Michigan players to avoid regulatory penalties. Sweepstakes sites offer casino-style gaming with virtual currency, with chances for players to redeem for real prizes.
Learn More About Sweepstakes Casinos
Is DFS Legal In Michigan?
Daily Fantasy Sports (DFS) is available to play in Michigan. The Fantasy Sports Consumer Protection Act was approved in 2019, officially legalizing DFS and establishing the regulatory framework. The minimum age to register and play is 18.
Top DFS sites such as DraftKings and FanDuel are available to play. However, pick'em style contests have been effectively banned since 2023. The MCGB views them as too closely resembling sports betting and enacted regulations to prohibit them.
Are Prediction Markets Legal In Michigan?
Prediction market platforms are regulated by the Commodities Futures Trading Commission. Platforms such as Kalshi operate nationwide, offering event contract trading on real-world outcomes, including sports.
Several states, including Michigan, have pushed back and questioned their overall legality. There has not been an outright ban, but legal cases are pending, setting up a situation that bears monitoring.
Learn More About Prediction Markets
Michigan Recent News
michigan Sports Betting
#1
Terms and Conditions
New customers only. Deposit min. $10. Place first bet of min $5 and get $100 in bonus bets if your bet wins.
Gambling Problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER.
21+ and present in OH.
#2
Terms and Conditions
Gambling problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER (Available in the US)
877-8-HOPENY or text HOPENY (467369) (NY)
1-800-327-5050 (MA), 1-800-NEXT-STEP (AZ), 1-800-BETS-OFF (IA), 1-800-981-0023 (PR)
21+ only. Please Gamble Responsibly. See BetMGM.com for Terms. First Bet Offer for new customers only (if applicable). Subject to eligibility requirements. Bonus bets are non-withdrawable. In partnership with Kansas Crossing Casino and Hotel. This promotional offer is not available in DC, Mississippi, New York, Nevada, Ontario, or Puerto Rico.
#3
Terms and Conditions
Must be 18+ (19+ in AL, NE; 19+ in CO for some games; 21+ in AZ, MA, and VA) and present in a state where Underdog Fantasy operates. Terms apply. Concerned with your play? Call 1-800-MY-RESET or 1-800-GAMBLER or visit www.ncpgambling.org. NY: Call the 24/7 HOPEline at 1-877-8-HOPENY or Text HOPENY (467369)
#4
#5
Terms and Conditions
GAMBLING PROBLEM? CALL 1-800-GAMBLER or 1-800-522-4700, (800) 327-5050 or visit gamblinghelplinema.org (MA). Call 877-8-HOPENY/text HOPENY (467369) (NY).
Please Gamble Responsibly. 888-789-7777/visit ccpg.org (CT), or visit www.mdgamblinghelp.org (MD).
21+ and present in most states. (18+ DC/KY/NH/WY). Void in ONT/OR/NH. Eligibility restrictions apply. On behalf of Boot Hill Casino & Resort (KS). Pass-thru of per wager tax may apply in IL. 1 per new customer. Must register new account to receive reward Token. Must select Token BEFORE placing min. $5 bet to receive $200 in Bonus Bets if your bet wins. Min. -500 odds req. Token and Bonus Bets are single-use and non-withdrawable. Bet must settle by and Token expires 3/15/26. Bonus Bets expire in 7 days (168 hours). Stake removed from payout. Terms: sportsbook.draftkings.com/
#6
#7
#8
#9
Terms and Conditions
NEW TO DRAFTKINGS CUSTOMERS. After registration, play a $5+ entry in Pick6 to receive $60 in Bonus Picks. Max 1 redemption per customer. Bonus Picks will expire after 14 days if unused. Promo Period: 1/26/2026 –2/8/2026. Eligibility: Must be 18+ years of age or older (19+ in NE, AL) (21+ in AZ, MA, VA).
#10
Terms and Conditions
Eligible new Caesars Sportsbook accountholders can earn up to a $250 Bonus Bet by successfully opening a new Caesars Sportsbook account with a qualifying promo code and placing their first real money wager. This promotion begins at 12:00pm Eastern Standard Time (EST) on Tuesday, December 16, 2025, and ends at 11:59am EST on Tuesday, February 10, 2026 (“Promotion Period”). Promotion is offered by American Wagering, Inc. (“Caesars”). caesars.com/sportsbook-and-casino/promo-details/
#11
Gambling Problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER.
21+ and present in OH.
Michigan Promotions & Bonuses
Michigan Promotions & BonusesTerms and Conditions
New customers only. Deposit min. $10. Place first bet of min $5 and get $100 in bonus bets if your bet wins.
Gambling Problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER.
21+ and present in OH.
Terms and Conditions
Eligible new Caesars Sportsbook accountholders can earn up to a $250 Bonus Bet by successfully opening a new Caesars Sportsbook account with a qualifying promo code and placing their first real money wager. This promotion begins at 12:00pm Eastern Standard Time (EST) on Tuesday, December 16, 2025, and ends at 11:59am EST on Tuesday, February 10, 2026 (“Promotion Period”). Promotion is offered by American Wagering, Inc. (“Caesars”). caesars.com/sportsbook-and-casino/promo-details/
Gambling Problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER.
21+ and present in OH.
When betting on sports in Michigan, sportsbooks roll out the red carpet and offer a range of promotions and sign-up bonuses designed to attract you and win your loyalty. Bonuses are a good thing for both newcomers and seasoned bettors.
- Sign-Up Bonuses: Large deposit match offers and risk-free bets to get you started
- Enhanced Odds Boosts: Temporary improvements on popular markets to increase potential returns
- Free Bet Credits: Bonuses that allow you to place a wager without using your own cash
- Loyalty Rewards Programs: Points or credits earned with every bet, which can be redeemed for bonus funds or exclusive perks
To maximize these bonus offers, keep the following tips in mind:
- Read the Fine Print: Always review the terms and conditions to understand wagering requirements and their expiration dates
- Compare Offers: Shop around different sportsbooks to find the most competitive promotions
- Use Exclusive Promo Codes: Access bonus codes from trusted sources for additional benefits
- Plan Your Wagers: Strategically combine bonuses with your betting strategy to meet playthrough (AKA rollover) requirements effectively.
- Ask For Help: You don't have to do it alone. Trusted pick service providers like Doc's Sports and Wunderdog can help you spend those bonus bucks wisely.
Find Your Edge - Leveraging Odds Shark’s industry expertise, we highlight unique, expert-evaluated elements of each sportsbook to help users confidently select the platform that fits their needs. Check out detailed reviews of industry leaders like DraftKings, FanDuel, BetMGM, and Caesars—all popular choices among Tennessee bettors for their competitive odds, generous promotions, and sign-up bonuses. Whichever app(s) you choose, I highly encourage pairing them with the Outlier sports betting app, where you can get a free 7-day trial and create a customized profile featuring live odds and bet recommendations at your specific sportsbooks.
how to start betting in michigan
Getting started betting in Michigan is easy because the state allows remote registration, meaning you can register and fund your accounts from home. You can download the sports betting app of your choice on a phone, verify your identity (including the last 4 digits of your social security number), deposit money, and start betting immediately.
select a sportsbook
First, decide which sportsbook you want to use and download that sports betting app on your phone. Some sportsbooks will allow you to get started from their website on a computer as well. With the help of this article, make sure the app you’ve chosen is regulated in your state.
create account
Click the button on your sportsbook’s app that says “sign up” or “get started,” while you’re inside state lines, to begin creating an account. You’ll be required to fill in some personal information and verify your identity.
deposit
To fund the account, select the payment option you prefer. Each sportsbook has different options for deposits, but common options include: Credit/debit card, bank transfers, PayPal, etc. Remember to keep an eye out for any fees that might be associated with the deposit.
Check out the best online betting deposit options!
choose your bet and bet size
There are a variety of wagering options within each sportsbook. If you’re just getting started, moneylines are the most straightforward bet and allow bettors to wager on who will win an event. Point spreads, over/unders, parlays, player props, and futures bets are also popular choices.
place a wager
Every sportsbook runs independently from each other, so they each may offer different point spreads or odds on the same wager. Before placing your wager, try shopping around at other betting apps to get the best price. Once you’ve found odds you like, type in your wager amount and submit your wager. If your wager wins, your winnings and your original bet will be deposited back into your account shortly after the event you bet on finishes.
withdraw
Each online sportsbook has different methods and processes for cashing out money if you’re successful in betting. It’s normal for withdrawals to take longer than deposits, but the money is typically received within a couple of days.
Legal Framework
- Legalized retail sports betting began in 2020, with online betting following in January 2021.
- All Michigan sportsbooks must adhere to strict state licensing and operational requirements.
Regulatory Bodies
- The Michigan Gaming and Control Board (MGCB) is responsible for licensing, enforcing compliance, and ensuring consumers are protected.
Key Restrictions & Limitations
- Bets must be placed by individuals physically located within Michigan state lines.
- All bettors must be 21 or older to participate.
- Betting on in-state college teams is strictly prohibited.
Responsible Gambling Initiatives
- Michigan is sincere about minimizing the risks associated with sports betting. With several helpful brochures and self-assessment resources on its website, the Michigan Gaming and Control Board seems to have far more resources dedicated to helping problem gamblers than many other states.
Top 5 Legal Online Casinos in Michigan (2026)
Below is a comparison of the top licensed online casinos in Michigan, featuring the latest bonus offers for new players. Click the links to read full reviews and claim your preferred bonuses with a quick registration process.
| Casino | Bonus Offer | Licensing Partner | Best For | Rating | Games Available |
| BetMGM | 100% Deposit Match Up to $1,000 + $25 on the House | MGM Grand Detroit | Game variety | 4.5 | 1,000+ slots, table games, live dealer, online poker |
| Caesars Palace | 100% up to $2500 + 2500 reward credits | Turtle Creek Casino & Hotel | Welcome bonus | 4.5 | 750+ slots, table games, live dealer |
| DraftKings | 500 Free Spins + 24-hr Lossback up to $1K | Bay Mills Resort Casino | Casino app | 4.5 | 700+ slots, table games, live dealer |
| Golden Nugget | 350 Free Spins + Up to $1K Deposit Match | Ojibwa Casino | Slot game variety | 4.5 | 1,000+ slots, table games, live dealer |
| Horseshoe | 100% Bonus Back Up To $1,250 | Sault Ste. Marie Tribe of Chippewa Indians | Rewards program | 4.5 | 500+ slots, table games, live dealer |
History of Sports Betting Legislation In Michigan
Governor Gretchen Whitmer signed HB 4916 into law in December of 2019, legalizing retail and online sports betting in the state. Michigan’s first retail sportsbooks opened in March of 2020, and online betting launched in January of 2021. Here's how it all played out since the Supreme Court overturned PASPA in May 2018.
December 28, 2018: Former Gov. Rick Snyder vetoed HB 4926, which would have legalized sports betting.
September 4, 2019: Rep. Brandt Iden introduced HB 4916, “To allow and establish a comprehensive licensure and regulatory regime for sports betting through casinos”.
December 20, 2019: HB 4916, legalizing retail and online sports betting, is signed by Gov. Whitmer.
March 11, 2020: First retail sportsbooks open in Detroit.
January 22, 2021: Online sports betting launches.
May 27, 2024: A new online platform launched by the World Series of Poker (WSOP) includes a three-state collaboration with Michigan, New Jersey, and Nevada.
February 12, 2026: Gov. Whitmer expresses interest in increasing tax rates for online casino and sportsbook operators to help offset a decline in federal funding.
Michigan Sports Betting Partnerships
Terms and Conditions
New customers only. Deposit min. $10. Place first bet of min $5 and get $100 in bonus bets if your bet wins.
Gambling Problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER.
21+ and present in OH.
Michigan is home to loyal fans and franchises with storied histories. The Wolverine State offers opportunities to bet on college. NFL, NBA, MLB, NHL, and international soccer competitions, along with niche events and prop markets that cater to every fan.
Notable partnerships further enhance the Michigan sports betting experience are below:
- FanDuel Sportsbook is partnered with the Detroit Red Wings, Detroit Pistons, and Detroit Tigers.
- DraftKings Sportsbook also has a partnership with the Pistons.
- BetMGM became the Detroit Lions' first official sports betting partner in 2020.
Comparison with Other States
Michigan is becoming a major player in the sports betting scene, driven by loyal fan bases for both collegiate and professional sports. Michigan shares a border with two states (Ohio and Indiana) that have legalized sports betting.
Michigan Sports Betting Tax Rates
Michigan currently has an 8.4% tax rate on sportsbooks, but there have been indications that this may increase. Neighboring Ohio charges 20%, while Indiana is at 9.5%.
Potential Legislative Changes & Market Growth in Michigan Sports Betting
More Sportsbooks on the Way?
Michigan law allows for up to 15 sportsbook licenses, and currently, 12 are filled. It wouldn't be surprising if additional sportsbooks entered the Michigan market in the next year or two.
Further Crackdowns on Competition
The MCGB has been sending cease and desist letters to companies that it believes are unregulated competition in its market. For instance, unlicensed operators offering casino games and illegal offshore sportsbooks have been targeted aggressively. Michigan is serious about limiting competition for its regulated books, and doing so could have a positive impact on the sports betting handle in the Wolverine State.
A Tax increase for Michigan Sportsbooks
It seems inevitable that Michigan is going to ask for a larger piece of the pie since its tax rate is so industry-friendly right now. Gov. Whitmer has expressed interest in raising the rate to offset shortfalls elsewhere.
Responsible Gaming Message From Michigan
Whether you’re betting on sports, wagering online, or gaming at a casino, gambling can be a fun activity, but it also can lead to some serious problems. We created a website, Don’tRegretTheBet.org, that includes tips and information to help. The website has tips, quizzes, and facts about gambling to help ensure Michigan sports bettors don't fall into problematic gambling habits.
Key responsible gambling resources and initiatives in Michigan include:
Gambling Addiction Support:
- Access to counseling services and support groups is available through national resources like the Problem Gambling Helpline (1-800-GAMBLER).
- Online resources provide self-assessment tools at Don'tRegretTheBet.org
Responsible Gaming Initiatives:
- The Michigan Gaming & Control Board actively promotes responsible gaming and has two separate self-inclusion lists -- one for in-person casinos and one for online bettors.
- Michigan encourages anyone concerned about their gambling habits to contact them for more information at mgcbweb@michigan.gov or 888-223-3044.
Operator Tools and Safety Features:
- Leading sportsbooks in Michigan implement features like deposit limits, wagering limits, and self-exclusion options to help bettors manage their betting activities effectively.
- These tools are designed to empower users to make informed decisions and protect themselves from potential financial strain, or those who feel they may be developing unhealthy betting habits.
USA Betting News
Michigan cares about responsible gaming and has created several resources for those concerned about their gambling habits. For instance, a Responsible Gaming Database (RGD) is available for bettors who want to voluntarily be excluded from all Michigan-regulated online sports betting. The Michigan Gaming Control Board’s (MGCB) provides an application packet for those who want to be excluded from gambling at Detroit-area in-person casinos for life.
Loading map
