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Michigan sports betting: Legal sportsbooks, apps and bonus codes

Sloan Piva

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Michigan legalized sports betting in late 2019, when Governor Gretchen Whitmer signed the Lawful Sports Betting Act into law. Retail sportsbooks opened in the Great Lakes State in 2020, and online sportsbooks launched in the state in 2021.

So, what do you need to know as an aspiring Michigan sports bettor, or as just a sports bettor planning a visit to the state?

Here are all the details you'll need to get started, including laws, how to join a sportsbook, which sportsbooks are offered in Michigan and the best promos and sign-up bonuses available.

MORE: Complete guide to betting on the NFL

Is sports betting legal in Michigan?

Yes! Michigan officially legalized sports betting in 2019, and it rolled out its first retail sportsbooks in 2020. The first online sports betting apps launched in Michigan in 2021.

The Michigan Gaming Control Board (MGCB) regulates sports betting in Michigan. The MGCB is the government agency responsible for overseeing all legal internet and retail sports betting in the state, in addition to commercial casinos and other gaming activities

To place sports bets in Michigan, you will need to be:

  • at least 21 years old
  • physically in the state (verify with GeoComply)
  • able to verify your sportsbook account

MORE: What to know about betting on the NBA

Online sportsbooks available in Michigan

Here are the online sportsbook options in the state of Michigan.

How to sign up and place a bet in Michigan

The process to start your sports betting journey in the Great Lakes State is quite simple. Here are the three steps:

Step 1: Choose a licensed/registered Michigan sportsbook

Choose one of the sportsbooks listed above. 

Step 2: Sign up, enter a promo code (if applicable), and deposit

Follow the steps to sign up for your preferred sportsbook. The book will likely ask for your social security number or driver’s license to verify your identity and age, and you will need to install GeoComply to prove you're located within the state lines.

You'll also want to enter a promo code if the sportsbook offers a sign-up promo or bonus. Scroll down to see the full array of promos offered across all books in the state of Michigan. 

Once you're all registered, you're set to make your first deposit. Most bettors prefer the simplicity of linking your bank account using direct deposit. Others like to use credit cards or an online payment app like Venmo or PayPal. 

Step 3: Place your bets!

Once you have completed Steps 1 and 2, you're ready to begin your sports betting journey!

To place a bet, simply click on the sport or league, find the bet or prop you want to wager on, click it and enter your bet amount. Then click submit and get ready to root on your first bet!

MORE: How do sportsbook bonuses work?

What you can bet on in Michigan

While sports betting is legal in Michigan, there are still some restrictions on what bettors can wager on. Here's a look at what's available for Michigan sports bettors.

  • Licensed online and retail sports betting are BOTH legal
  • NFL, NBA, MLB, NHL, UFC, golf, motorsports and other pro sports and leagues
  • College sports lines, totals and futures
  • College sports player props
  • Olympics
  • Esports
  • Horse racing
  • Certain non-sporting events (like the Oscars)

What you can't bet on in Michigan

There are some nuances as to what can be bet on in Michigan. Here are the restrictions to keep in mind. 

  • Unlicensed iGaming or online casino gambling
  • High school sports
  • Political events
  • Live greyhound dog racing
  • Placing wagers at an unlicensed sportsbook
  • Must physically be in Michigan to place wagers

MORE: Why bettors should utilize multiple sports books

Michigan sports betting promos and bonus offers

Popular teams to bet on in Michigan

  • Detroit Lions (NFL)
  • Detroit Pistons (NBA)
  • Detroit Tigers (MLB)
  • Detroit Red Wings (NHL)
  • Michigan Wolverines (NCAA)
  • Michigan State Spartans (NCAA)

Responsible gambling resources in Michigan

If you or someone you know has a gambling problem, there are several resources available for help.

  • Problem Gambline Helpline: 1-800-GAMBLER
  • Michigan Department of Health and Human Services (MDHHS)
  • Michigan Association on Problem Gambling (MAPG)
  • Michigan Gaming Control Board (MGCB)
  • Responsible Gaming Database (RGD)
  • Disassociated Persons List (DPL)
  • Support groups like Gamblers Anonymous

MORE: Everything to know about odds in American sports betting

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