Michigan Online Casinos
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The Ultimate Gambling Guide 2024
Online gambling is now legal in the Centennial State. Thanks to Governor Gretchen Whitmer and the Lawful Internet Gaming Act (LIGA), Michigan online casinos have been legal since 2019. This guide will not only explain how you can gamble online in Michigan but why it’s safe, where you can play, and what the best deals are.
So, if you’re ready to learn more about Michigan online gambling laws and how you can ante-up via any digital device, let’s begin.
Can I Gamble Online in Michigan?
You can gamble online in Michigan thanks to two laws: the Lawful Internet Gaming Act (LIGA) and the Lawful Sports Betting Act (LBSA). These acts were signed into law in late 2019 and paved the way for Michigan online casinos and sports betting sites. COVID-19 hampered the rollout of online casinos in 2020. As per LIGA, land-based casinos are allowed to launch one online site.
But because local venues were forced to close for much of 2020, efforts to launch MI online casinos were put on the backburner. However, the first Michigan online gambling sites are expected to go live in 2021 and, from there, others will follow.
What’s interesting about Michigan’s online gambling industry is that it will also include sportsbooks. When the professional and Amateur Sports Protection Act (PASPA) was overturned in 2018, states were given the ability to legalize bookmaking. New Jersey and others were quick to seize this opportunity and, in late 2019, Michigan did the same.
Today, MI casinos have the ability to work along sportsbooks both in the offline world and online. This means that anyone of age (21+) can gamble on blackjack, roulette, and slots et al, as well as football, baseball, and more. In fact, some of the best Michigan online casinos will have sportsbooks integrated into them. Therefore, thanks to the passing of LIGA and LBSA, local residents can legally gamble in a variety of ways via their desktop computer or mobile.
The History of Online Gambling Michigan: From Nothing to Something
1999 – Before it legalized online gambling, Michigan outlawed it. Senate Bill 562 made it illegal to bet online by extending the state’s existing anti-gambling laws to the digital arena: “[residents cannot] use the internet to violate any of Michigan’s anti-gambling provisions.”
2000 – Senate Bill 562 was repealed in 2000 by the Public Act 185. This didn’t make online gambling legal in Michigan, but it was no longer outlawed.
2017 – With online gaming in something of a gray area and other states enacting their own gambling laws, Michigan started its journey towards regulation. The Senate Committee on Regulatory Reform passed Senate Bill 203 in 2017. These efforts eventually evolved into the Lawful Internet Gaming Act (LIGA) and, subsequently, the Lawful Sports Betting Act (LBSA).
2019 – After much political wrangling, the House and Senate voted in favor of LIGA in 2019. The bill was eventually signed into law by Governor Gretchen Whitmer in December 2019. This gave the state’s 26 commercial and tribal casinos the ability to offer online gaming.
How Can I Gamble in Michigan?
You need two things to gamble online in Michigan: an account with a licensed provider and an understanding of the rules. With regards to the former, you can use our recommended online casino Michigan sites. These sites have not only been checked, verified, and reviewed by our team of experts, but authorized by the state. This means you can enjoy a safe, secure, and legal online gaming experience.
But before you start looking for the perfect casino in Michigan, you need to know the rules. When it comes to online gambling, real money sites won’t accept anyone and everyone. Yes, if you’re local, you may be able to sign up and play. However, this is only true if you meet certain entry conditions and, in turn, comply with Michigan gambling laws.
Online Casino Michigan Gaming Laws: An Overview
We’ve already noted how LIGA and LBSA made online casinos and sports betting legal in Michigan. In terms of specifics, here’s how gambling is legal in the Centennial State:
- Each of the state’s casinos can have one online gaming license.
- Each of the state’s casinos can also launch online poker sites and sportsbooks if they wish.
- There are three commercial casinos in Michigan, each of which can launch an online gambling site.
- Michigan’s tribal casinos can also partner with online operators to offer online betting and gaming.
Online Gambling Michigan Laws Continued: Who Can Play?
As well as rules dictating who can offer casino gaming and how state laws also determine who can play. To join any of our top-rated Michigan online casinos, you need to meet the following requirements:
You Must be Old Enough
The minimum age for betting online in Michigan is 21. This is fairly standard in all US regulated gaming markets. However, it’s somewhat unique in Michigan because of the way land-based casinos operate. If a land-based casino isn’t serving alcohol, customers over the age of 18 are allowed to enter. If, however, there is alcohol being served, everyone has to be 21+. To avoid any confusion in the digital world, the minimum age for Michigan online
casinos is 21.
You Must be Located in the State
This is one of the most important rules, not just in Michigan but all US gaming states. To create an account and gamble for real money, you need to be located in Michigan. When you go through the registration process and, subsequently, each time you log in, geolocation software will track your movements.
You have to allow this software to do its thing. Any attempts to block or override it will prevent you from accessing your account. Moreover, if you successfully circumvent the geolocation blocks and play games from outside of the state, you’re likely to have your account shutdown and, potentially, face criminal charges.
The reason this is so important is because online gambling isn’t legal in all US states. Federal law hasn’t caught up with state law just yet. Therefore, each individual region has to enact its own regulations if it wants to create a local gaming industry. In turn, this means you have to be in Michigan to use licensed MI casinos. That’s why you have to allow the geolocation trackers to establish and pinpoint your general location at all times.
You Must Prove Your Identity
Michigan online casinos use the latest digital technology to establish and validate your identity. It’s not possible to use false details in an effort to create an account. Even if that were possible, you wouldn’t be able to withdraw your winnings without proving your identity.
The registration process requires you to enter various personal details, including your name, age, and address. These must match the details printed on your official ID. You’ll also have to provide your Social Security Number (SSN) in part or full. This helps the software run a check and establish your identity.
As a final security measure, you’ll be asked to submit a copy of your ID (driver’s license, passport etc.) when you request your first withdrawal. Only once you’ve done this and the security team have confirmed your identity, the cashout request will be granted. As you can see, there is virtually no way to dupe the system and create an account fraudulently.
You Must Obey the House Rules
Every online casino Michigan has to offer will use its own rules. Many of these rules will be based on state law. However, each site will also have its own in-house guidelines. For example, Casino A might have a 10X wagering requirement on bonuses. In contrast, Casino B might have a 5X wagering requirement and stipulate that you can only play slots until your funds have been cleared.
Understanding that each platform will be slightly different is important. Our Michigan online casino reviews will highlight many of the subtle differences. However, it’s also your job to be an educated consumer. Even though online gaming is safe and enjoyable, you can’t be naïve to the rules and regulations. Only by studying what a site has to offer and how it expects customers to behave will you get the best experience possible.
Additional Michigan Online Gambling Regulations
There are many more clauses and subclauses within Michigan’s Lawful Internet Gaming Act. We can’t go through them all. However, here are some additional regulations you should take into consideration:
Casinos Have to Know Their Customers (KYC)
Michigan online casinos have to comply with a regulation known as KYC. This stands for Know Your Customer and it requires every operator to perform background checks on its players. Moreover, operators have the power to monitor accounts and ask for proof of funds/earnings in instances where they believe fraudulent activity might be taking place.
You Must Gamble Responsibly
No one can tell you how much to bet or when you can play. However, as an individual, you have a personal obligation to gamble responsibly. What’s more, operators have to make sure they don’t encourage irresponsible behavior. As such, all Michigan casinos online will have responsible gambling tools such as self-exclusion options and deposit limits.
Slots Have Certain Rules
In a bid to appease the Michigan Lottery, lawmakers have imposed certain restrictions on slots. Firstly, the odds of winning can’t be longer than 50 million to 1. Secondly, the minimum return to player (RTP) score for slots is 80%. Finally, progressive jackpots will be somewhat limited in their value so as not to infringe on the state lottery.
Top Legal Online Gambling Sites In Michigan for July 2022
MGM Online Casino Michigan, the countrywide market leader, is the state’s most popular and most trusted online casino. It now has a dominating lead, but rivalry for the remaining top slots is intense. In addition, due to the licensing cap, Michigan real money online casinos will not see additional new members, unlike other states.
When choosing the best online gambling sites, several factors to consider. And take note, the largest Michigan online betting site isn’t always the best for everybody. So to help you out, you may find a guide to picking the Best MI Online Casinos further down the page. However, suppose you’re in a rush to get started. In that case, it’s not a terrible idea to look at the online casinos in Michigan that most residents choose.
1. BetMGM Online Casino Michigan
BetMGM Casino is thought to be the biggest casino in New Jersey. Due to its late entry into Pennsylvania, it had fallen behind many competitors nationally. It’s the iGaming market leader now that it’s online there and in Michigan. Today, it’s become a formidable force within the business of gambling online in Michigan.
MGM Resorts International and internet operator Entain jointly administer the BetMGM brand. MGM’s resorts are high-end establishments, and the BetMGM name aims to fill a similar niche worldwide.
Although BetMGM offers lower stakes on Michigan online games, incentives, marketing, and, in particular, its MGM Rewards loyalty program caters to higher-rollers. Notably those who frequent MGM’s land-based casinos, like the MGM Grand Casinos in Detroit Michigan. NJ is also recognized for having the state’s most significant progressive slots jackpots. However, Michigan has several laws that may limit jackpots from rising as huge.
2. FanDuel Casino Michigan
FanDuel sports gambling Michigan began as a daily fantasy sports firm, then expanded into sports betting before introducing its FanDuel Online Casino.
It has been owned by Flutter, the world’s largest wagering company, since 2017. Flutter also owns PokerStars and FOX Bet. The independently-owned MotorCity Casino in Detroit is its new Michigan online casino partner.
Before its opening in Michigan, FanDuel Casino was only accessible in Pennsylvania. But, it is now one of the most popular providers there. Like DraftKings Michigan Online Gaming, it caters to users interested in sportsbook and casino gaming. And it does not place as much emphasis on its Michigan online slots offerings as more established companies.
3. Golden Nugget Casino Michigan
Golden Nugget Casino isn’t the most popular online betting in Michigan. Still, it is the most concentrated on pure casino games. As a result, it’s a terrific option for traditional casino players looking to switch to online gaming.
That implies there aren’t a lot of crossovers with other sectors here. So, for example, even though Golden Nugget features a sportsbook, it isn’t very active and doesn’t provide Michigan online poker. It does, however, include a large number of slots, most of which have large progressive jackpots.
Live dealer games like live BlackJack Michigan are top-rated at Golden Nugget. Because the state’s single studio recently launched and is seeking regulatory clearance to offer new games, these alternatives are currently restricted in all Michigan online casinos. Anticipate Golden Nugget to become the best casino in Michigan for these in the future.
Finally, Golden Nugget offers a sizable Michigan online casino no deposit bonus. While many casinos provide either a no deposit bonus or a first deposit match, finding both in one spot is more complicated. Golden Nugget Casino does just that, with a $30 welcome bonus for players who qualify for the legal gambling age in Michigan. And, of course, a complete 100% match up to $1000 on your first deposit when you use our promo code.
4. Draftkings Casino Michigan
In 2020, DraftKings Casino was a relative newcomer to the Michigan online casino list, but it rapidly made an impression. All states where online casino gaming is permitted offer standalone casino applications and combined sportsbook casinos. The Bay Mills Indian Tribe and its titular resort casino are partners.
The firm began in the daily fantasy sports industry and became well-known after an extensive advertising campaign in 2015. Despite branching out into other gaming sectors, it still targets the same core audience—the young, predominantly male online sports betting Michigan enthusiasts with its marketing and product. As a result, its casino portfolio is less traditional and slots-focused than others, focusing primarily on table games, particularly blackjack. Basketball Roulette, for example, is part of a growing collection of bespoke games with Michigan sports betting elements.
One of the MI online sports betting sites, Golden Nugget Online Casino is being acquired by DraftKings. As a result, there may be some crossover between the two Michigan online sports betting giants in the following years.
5. Stars Casino Michigan
Stars Casino Michigan, sponsored by PokerStars, is among the list of online casinos in Michigan. Due to its connection with FoxBet, which gained authorization for its online sportsbook and Stars’ online casino, Stars Casino was allowed to start in Michigan. In addition, because Stars Casino is wholly licensed and regulated in Michigan, you may now join up and play from anywhere else in the state. First, of course, with the Stars Michigan Casino Apps.
When you stake $1, Stars will give you a $50 bonus that you can use on the best online slots Michigan. Furthermore, you may receive a 200 percent deposit bonus of up to $500. You may spend this bonus on Stars’ many games featuring slots and online poker Michigan. You may test out Stars Casino before investing a large sum of money in your online account.
6. Wynnbet Casino Michigan
Although Wynn is a popular gaming name in the retail casino industry, it took time to enter the online casino market like Pointsbet Casino. It did so in New Jersey only in August 2020. However, it remains a small player there. However, it seems to have timed its entry to coincide with the run-up to launch in casinos in upper Michigan, as it has been pushing harder there. As a result, WynnBET Casino is closer to being in the middle of the pack.
It has easy clearance requirements for its first deposit bonus but no loyalty program. This makes it a good choice if you plan on playing casually and for low stakes.
7. Betrivers Casino Michigan
New customers may get a 100% deposit bonus of up to $250 at BetRiver Casino, powered by Rush Street Interactive. New customers have 30 days to complete the casino playthrough criteria to withdraw the deposit bonus earnings. In addition, they also feature the best casino payouts in Michigan.
Netent, IGT, Konami, and Everi are among the online casino’s game providers. They also feature one of the most diverse casino game options in Michigan. There’s something for everyone, from slots to table games, futures games, and online baccarat Michigan.
Which Online Casinos Are Live in Michigan?
Online casinos are set to go live in Michigan at some point in 2021. Even though the necessary laws were passed in 2019, the impact of COVID-19 has delayed the launch of local gaming sites. What we do know is that almost all of the state’s land-based casinos are getting in on the act and have partnered with various online operators. Therefore, you can expect to see the following casinos online in Michigan:
- BetMGM – Linked to MGM Grand Detroit.
- BetRivers – Linked to Little River Casino in Manistee.
- DraftKings – Linked to Bay Mills Casino Brimley.
- FanDuel – Linked to MotorCity Casino in Detroit.
- Golden Nugget – Linked to the Ojibwa Tribal Casino in Marquette.
- PointsBet – Linked to Northern Waters in Watersmeet.
- William Hill – Linked to Turtle Creek Casino in Williamsburg.
- PokerStars – Linked to Odawa in Petoskey.
- BetAmerica – Linked to Island Casino in Harris.
- Parx – Linked to Gun Lake in Wayland.
- FireKeepers – Linked to FireKeepers Casinos in Battle Creek.
- Wynn – Linked to Kewadin in Sault Ste. Marie.
What Games Can I Play Online?
Michigan online casinos will be filled with various games. From the traditional to the innovative, you’ll be able to play for cash prizes in a way that suits you. MI casinos will also offer free-play gaming. By using what are known as demo games, you can experience all the thrills of a casino gaming without spending a dime. Naturally, you won’t be able to win any real-money prizes from a demo game. You will, however, be able to have some fun and learn the basics of what each game has to offer.
The main games to look out for inside Michigan’s leading online casinos are:
- Slots
- Jackpot Slots
- Blackjack
- Roulette
- Video Poker
- Bingo
- Keno
- Slingo
- Craps
- Baccarat
- Casino Poker
- Live Dealer Casino Games (these are expected to drop in late 2021 as they feature live streaming technology that needs to go through various additional checks before they are authorized by the Michigan Gaming Control Board).
How to Join MI Online Casinos
To join one of our top-rated Michigan casinos, follow the steps below:
- Read our Michigan online casino reviews.
- Find a site you like and click our secure registration link.
- Create an account and include a Michigan online casino bonus code, if necessary.
- Verify your identity and account. This will require details of your SSN and copies of your ID.
- Log in and make a deposit.
- Start playing your favorite casino games via your desktop or mobile.
How to Choose an Online Casino in Michigan
Choosing the right gaming site isn’t a science. In our opinion, it’s part science, part art. To put it another way, you need to use a combination of facts and personal opinions. We can’t help you with the second part of that equation. If you’re a seasoned gamer, you’ll already know what you like. If you’re a novice, you’ll need to try a few different things to ascertain what piques your interests.
What we can do, however, is provide you with the facts. Our Michigan online casino reviews will give you a complete and unbiased overview of the market in general and, moreover, the sites themselves. We test every site and use our own experience and knowledge to assess what it has to offer. From there, we’re able to draw comparisons with other MI casinos and offer opinions on what’s hot and what’s not.
We also believe that education is paramount in this industry. We don’t want you to simply read our reviews and take them at face value. We want you to understand what it takes to become a leading casino. By knowing what to look for, you’ll get a lot more from our reviews and, in turn, stand a better chance of finding the perfect gaming site for your needs. So, with this in mind, here’s how to find the best Michigan casino online:
Security, Safety, and Licenses
The first qualities you should look for in an online casino are security, safety, and whether or not it’s legal. On all of these counts, we’ve got you covered. We only review and partner with legit Michigan casinos. That means the sites will be fully licensed in the state and feature the latest security measures.
From a practical perspective, this means every game will be tested and certified as fair by a third-party agency. Beyond that, the site/app will be protected by SSL encryption technology, all payments will be handled by reputable processors, and your funds will be stored in secure bank accounts.
Michigan Casino Bonuses and Promotions
Everyone should expect something extra when they join a new online casino. This isn’t being greedy, it’s a common thing in gaming. Look at other US states or countries around the world and you’ll see that every top operator offers at least one casino bonus. Our team does its best to not only find the best casino bonuses in Michigan but explain why they’re great.
There are plenty of offers out there that look great on paper but fall down when you unpack the terms and conditions. We weigh up all of the variables to ensure an offer is really as good as you’d expect. Your job is to find the deals that suit you. Gambling isn’t a sure thing, so it pays to have backup. Bonuses and casino promotions are your backup in this context.
Games, Games, and More Games
You can’t run an online casino without any games. We’ve listed the types of casino game you can expect to see at Michigan’s top sites but the simple premise you need to remember is this: “more is better.” That doesn’t mean quantity trumps quality. However, the more games you can play, the better the chances are of you finding something you like.
We also suggest taking a look at the betting options available and the prizes you can win. It’s no use having access to hundreds of games if you can’t afford to play or the prizes aren’t lucrative. Therefore, once you’ve established that an MI casino has plenty of games, make sure they suit you.
Desktop and Mobile Gambling in Michigan
Today’s top gaming operators will let you play games via your desktop and mobile. Some Michigan online casinos will have mobile apps (iOS and Android), some will have optimized websites. Whatever way they let you play, the main point to consider here is that you should be able to use all devices.
Alternative Options
The final point to consider when you’re sizing up Michigan’s casinos is alternative betting options. We know that licensed operators can offer sports betting and poker. Therefore, for the best overall gambling experience, you should try the sites that offer various types of gambling.
Michigan Online Casino FAQ
Are online casinos legal in Michigan?
Yes. The Lawful Internet Gaming act was signed into law by Governor Gretchen Whitmer in December 2019. This means online gambling is legal in Michigan and local casinos can launch their own gaming sites.
What is the minimum age to gamble in Michigan?
You have to be aged 21 or over to join any MI casino online. You also have to be located within the state to create an account and play for real money (or demo games).
Are Michigan online casinos safe?
Yes. Every site is linked to an established land-based casino and has undergone a series of stringent checks. The Michigan Gaming Control Board will only license reputable operators and it has the power to revokes licenses if a site is deemed unsafe or a risk to the public.
Can I win real money at Michigan gambling sites?
Yes, you can. As well as free-play demo games, MI casinos allow you to play for real money. You’ll be able to make secure payments using a variety of deposit methods, including Visa, MasterCard, and bank transfer.
How can I join a Michigan online casino?
You can use our Michigan casino online sign-up links as long as you’re 21 or over and located within the state. These secure links will take you directly to a site’s registration page and, in some cases, unlock exclusive bonus offers and promotions.