Are online casinos legal in Michigan?

Online casinos are legal in the Wolverine State thanks to the Lawful Internet Gaming Act. HB 4311 deems internet casinos, online poker, and daily fantasy sports legal.

Michigan online casino bonus codes. Claiming a Michigan online casino no deposit bonus is easy. In some casinos, the free cash will be transferred to your account right after signing up. In most cases, however, the casino will require you to enter a bonus code at the cashier. BetRivers Online Casino Michigan Review In June 2020 Rush Street Interactive announced a partnership agreement for the state of Michigan with the Little River Casino Resort. BetRivers and Little River will operate a regulated, co-branded online casino and sportsbook, in addition to a retail sports betting experience on site at the Manistee, MI.

This legislation sailed through both the State House and Senate. However, Gov. Gretchen Whitner was initially reluctant to sign.

She expressed concerns that internet gambling could cannibalize online lottery sales, which provide almost $1 billion annually to Michigan’s public school fund.

However, proponents won Whitmer over by imposing between a 20% and 28% tax rate on operators. She signed HB 4311 into law on December 20, 2019.

When will Michigan online casinos launch?

Gaming sites have officially been legal in the Wolverine State since December 2019. The regulatory framework and rules for the market aren’t in place yet, though.

Even when regulations are set, online casinos will need additional time to launch and work out potential kinks. We can’t provide an exact date on which Michigan online casinos will go live.

The MGCB estimates that gaming sites could launch as early as late fall 2020. Given that fall ends on December 21, the MGCB’s guess puts the market going live as early as November or December.

Of course, this estimation represents the best-case scenario. Gaming sites may not actually become available until early 2021.

Furthermore, not every internet casino will launch right after the MGCB gives approval. Some may wait several months or longer before they feel comfortable unveiling their casinos.

What MI online casinos will be available?

Before speculating on launch dates for specific internet casinos, we’d like to discuss which brands will be available in Michigan.

Each gaming site must partner with one of the land-based casinos in the state. Michigan features three commercial casinos and 12 tribal gaming interests, which collectively own 23 casinos.

You can see the likely MI online casinos along with their respective partners below:

• BetAmerica - Partnered with Hannahville Indian Community
• BetMGM Casino - Partnered with MGM Grand Detroit
• BetRivers Casino - Partnered with Little River Band of the Ottawa Indians
• DraftKings Casino - Partnered with Bay Mills Indian Community
• FanDuel Casino - Partnered with MotorCity Casino
• Golden Nugget Casino - Partnered with Keweenaw Bay Indian Community
• Hollywood Casino - Partnered with Greektown Casino
• Parx Casino - Partnered with Gun Lake Tribe
• PointsBet Casino - Partnered with Lac Vieux Desert Band of Lake Superior Chippewa Indians
• PokerStars Casino - Partnered with Little Traverse Bay Bands of Odawa Indians
• William Hill Casino - Partnered with Grand Traverse Bay Band of Ottawa and Chippewa Indians
• Wynn Casino - Partnered with Sault Ste. Marie Tribe of Chippewa Indians

Potential launch dates for internet casinos

As mentioned, the Michigan Gaming Control Board estimates that the first internet casinos will launch in late fall 2020.

Of course, we don’t know which casino will launch when. We can, however, look at other states for ideas.

Here are our best estimations on launch dates for Michigan internet casinos:

• DraftKings Casino - November or December 2020
• FanDuel Casino - November or December 2020
• BetMGM Casino - December 2020
• PokerStars Casino - January 2021
• Hollywood Casino - January or February 2021
• BetRivers Casino - February 2021
• Golden Nugget Casino - February 2021
• William Hill - July 2021
• BetAmerica Casino - August 2021
• Parx Casino - Late 2021
• PointsBet Casino - Late 2021
• Wynn Casino - Late 2021

What online casino games will Michigan offer?

Michigan is sure to feature a wide range of internet casino games that span from slots to table games. Below, you can see the main types of games to expect in this market.

Michigan online slots

Slots will no doubt rule Michigan’s online gaming market. They’re by far more popular than any other internet casino game.

Slots give developers a wide range of options regarding themes, formats, and bonuses. Therefore, Michigan will boast many types of online slots.

Here are the unique types of slots that will definitely be available in the Wolverine State.

• Three-reel: Although fewer in number today, these classic slots are still available in online casinos.
• Five-reel: Five-reel games are the most common type of slots in the industry.
• Bonus: These games offer unique bonus rounds that spice up the gameplay.
• Megaways: A Megaways slot provides a random number of winning “ways” on each spin.
• Grid: These slots feature a grid (e.g., 7x7) and cluster payouts, where matching symbols just need to touch to deliver wins.
• Progressive jackpot: These games take a small percentage of each bet to fund a progressive jackpot.

Michigan online blackjack

Blackjack has ruled the American table game scene for decades. It’ll assuredly be popular in Michigan’s internet gaming market, too.

Every MI gaming site is set to offer multiple variations of this classic game. Some of the likely variations include:

• Blackjack Xchange
• Blackjack: First Person
• Blackjack Pro
• Multi-hand blackjack
• Premium Blackjack Pro
• Unlimited Blackjack

Michigan online roulette

Roulette is another highly popular online table game. Michigan gaming sites are likely to feature roulette in multiple variants.

The two main variations are American and European roulette:

• American roulette: 38 numbers on the wheel; zero and double-zero pockets; 5.26% house edge
• European roulette: 37 numbers on the wheel; zero pocket; 2.70% house edge

As you can see, European roulette is the more desirable option. Its 2.70% house advantage is among the lowest in casinos.

Other Michigan online roulette games will likely offer the same basic structure as American and/or European roulette. They’ll only differ by featuring option side bets.

Table games

MI internet casinos are set to provide a variety of table games beyond blackjack and roulette. Here are likely online table games that’ll be available in Michigan:

• Caribbean stud
• Casino hold’em
• Let It Ride
• Mississippi stud
• Pai Gow poker
• Three-card poker
• Ultimate Texas Hold’em

Depending on the individual casino, craps may or may not be available in Michigan’s market. For whatever reason, only a small percentage of gaming sites offer craps.

Live dealer casino games

Live dealer gaming allows you to enjoy authentic brick-and-mortar gambling through a smartphone.

Michigan will assuredly feature live casino games at some point.

As seen with other states, internet casinos initially only launch with slots and virtual table games. They wait for months or even years before adding live gaming to the mix.

Whenever live dealer games do roll out, Evolution Gaming will be the premier provider. This studio has already inked deals with BetMGM and PointsBet well in advance of launch.

Video poker

Video poker has been a staple in Michigan land-based casinos for years. It’ll also be one of the featured game categories at Michigan online casinos.

Video poker is just five-card draw poker. However, MI gaming sites are set to roll out multiplier video poker variations.

Here are the likely online variants that’ll be available in Michigan:

• Bonus Poker
• Deuces Wild
• Double Bonus Poker
• Double Double Bonus Poker
• Jacks or Better
• Joker poker
• Triple Double Bonus Poker

Game providers at MI internet casinos

Several software developers will serve Michigan’s iGaming market. Here are notable providers that’ll supply MI online casinos either right away or in the future:

• AGS: This long-time supplier of tribal casinos also develops internet casino games.
• Big Time Gaming: This Aussie developer is famous for its “Megaways” slots.
• IGT: Launched in 1975, IGT is an institution in both land-based and online casinos.
• NetEnt: A Swedish developer, NetEnt is responsible for some of the biggest slot hits ever.
• WMS: Williams Interactive has produced the Zeus trilogy and plenty of other popular slots.

Depositing at Michigan online casinos

The Michigan iGaming industry is sure to feature plenty of deposit methods. Here are the primary banking options that should be available in the Wolverine State:

• 7-Eleven: Purchase a voucher from a nearby 7-Eleven and use it to deposit online.
• ACH (e-check): Send an e-check from your linked bank account to an online casino.
• Casino cage: Visit an online casino’s land-based partner to deposit in person.
• PayPal & Skrill: These two e-wallets offer convenient ways to place casino deposits.
• Play+ card: Prepaid cards that are available through each online casino.
• Visa and Mastercard: Use one of these credit cards to instantly fund your account.

Using Michigan casino apps

Smartphones have become the primary online gambling devices across the world. Therefore, many Michigan internet casinos will feature Android and/or iOS apps.

The method for obtaining a Michigan casino app will vary based on your phone’s operating system. Here are the steps for each type of system:

Android

• Visit the casino’s homepage.
• Look for and select the Android button.
• Follow the instructions on the download page.
• Download the app right off the website.

iOS

• Visit Apple’s App Store.
• Search for the relevant casino app.
• Download the app from the App Store.

Not all MI online casinos will feature an Android and iOS app. In this case, they should offer “instant play” in place of an app.

Instant play lets you enjoy casino games directly through your browser. You need only register to begin playing free online casino games.

Bonuses at Michigan online casinos

You can expect a wide variety of bonuses when Michigan gaming sites launch. Probable bonuses include:

• Cashback: You receive a percentage of your losses back (e.g., 20%) over a specified period.
• Free spins: These free slots spins let you generate winnings that you can cash out after meeting terms and conditions.
• Loyalty rewards: Collect loyalty points based on your real-money play and exchange them for rewards.
• Match deposit bonus: A bonus that matches a specified percentage (usually 100%) of your deposit amount.
• No-deposit bonus: You receive a bonus just for registering at a new online casino.

Michigan Online Casino FAQ

No definitive date exists on which when Michigan gaming sites will go live. However, the Michigan Gaming Control Board believes that some casinos could launch in November or December 2020.

No. You can play at legal Michigan online casinos as long as you’re within state lines.
Each gaming site uses geolocation software to pinpoint your location. You’ll be able to play for real money as long as the software deems you to be in Michigan.

The MGCB oversees the state’s online gaming market. It vets applicants and only issues licenses to highly qualified entities. Therefore, you’re unlikely to deal with any unfair Michigan online casinos.

You must be at least 21 years old to legally play online casino games in the Wolverine State.

Calling all online gamblers in Michigan! If you’re searching for the best Michigan online casinos and gambling apps, we’ve got plenty of options for you. Our dedicated research team works hard to generate an up-to-date listing of the top Michigan online casino sites offering the safest, most trusted betting experiences. Check the chart below to see our recommendations for the best real money online casinos accepting Michigan residents.

Criteria of the Best Michigan Online Casino Sites

If Michigan residents know anything, it’s quality. Building some of our nation’s finest cars for decades, you understand the importance of quality control, safety, and giving people what they want. Conveniently, these are also the three most significant traits we look for in Michigan casino gambling sites. Let’s take a look at how they apply.

Safe and Secure Online Gambling Experience

Fanduel Online Casino Michigan

Any concerns over safety or security can derail your online gaming experience in seconds. You should be focused on whether the next roulette roll is black or red, or if the next card you draw is going to give you 21, not whether your bankroll is safe from digital threats. Below is a quick list of some of the safest Michigan casino apps and sites out there.

During our review process we only recommend the best real money Michigan online casinos. Throughout these steps we put heavy emphasis on safety and security. Here are a few essential elements we look for:

• Highest-grade SSL certificates installed
• Dedicated security agents monitoring operations
• A proactive approach to site security
• Upgraded servers and software
• Transparency with security and safety
• Management and ownership team with experience

Online Casino Games Michigan Gamblers Want to Play

Chances are, we don’t have to tell you that Michigan players love to gamble. Want stats? We’ve got stats.

Extrapolate that to the rest of the state, and you’re talking serious money. Look a little deeper, and we find that Michigan residents have a particular affinity for real money slot machines, craps, and roulette. When we’re building our rankings list of the top Michigan casinos online we pay special attention to the availability and quality of these games. If most Michiganders are looking for these particular games, it would only make sense to recommend real money Michigan online casino sites that have superior offerings in these areas.

Yes, our primary requirement is a well-rounded and expansive online gambling experience. But we pay special attention to the games loved by most residents.

Quality Casino Apps Accepting Michigan Players

Online casinos are always trying new ways to innovate and give their players the best online gambling experience. With many of these sites making the transition over to mobile gambling, residents can finally play at Michigan online casino apps from anywhere.

When looking at how MI casino apps should function for players, we hold these mobile gambling apps to the same standard of quality as the desktop websites. The top Michigan casinos online will offer players either a high-quality mobile version of their site or, in most cases, dedicated casino apps for Michigan residents.

Variety of Real Money Online Casino Games

As previously noted, players in MI understand quality. We know from talking to residents that there is little patience for mistakes and second-best. This push for perfection does and should continue into the online casino realm. When we choose top Michigan casino apps and online casinos to recommend, we give them a thorough quality vetting. This vetting ensures we never suggest an option when something better exists.

Here’s the quality checklist we use when evaluating mobile gambling apps and casino sites for Michigan residents:

• Latest casino game versions
• Classic versions of games
• High-resolution graphics
• Smooth in-game animations

• Sufficient servers for game speed
• Fair gaming
• Quality customer service
• Additional sports betting options

Are Real Money Michigan Online Casinos Legal?

Out of all 50 states, Michigan has some of the most pro-gambling laws on the books. That being said, there are no current laws addressing real money MI casinos online or the legality of online betting in MI. Does this mean that gambling sites and Michigan casino apps are illegal? Not in our opinion.

It’s our interpretation that for something to be illegal, it has to break a law. If there are no laws being broken, then it’s not illegal in the USA. People have been gambling online in Michigan for decades, and no one has ever been in trouble with the law. If it were illegal, we think this would be different.

Now, some legal hardliners consider it a gray area, and some flat out disagree with us. Their stance is because it’s not declared legal by law, it is illegal. There are no laws in the United States saying eating a sandwich is legal, is that now illegal? Well, based on their logic, it would be. If you need a more concrete answer, reach out to a gaming lawyer or operations in MI. Otherwise, you can take our interpretation, and check out a few real money Michigan casino websites today!

Land-Based Casinos in Michigan

The legal landscape for land-based casinos in Michigan is bright. Michigan learned a long time ago that taxing gambling instead of trying to fight it is a lucrative move for the state budget. Here is a list of a few of the best casinos in Michigan that you can start playing at today:

Michigan Online Casino List

Gambling in Michigan is used to fund schools and other good-faith projects in the state. Let’s look at the state’s definition of gambling with money and look at the highlights of MI gambling laws.

Gambling is defined as accepting money or a valuable thing contingent upon result of a game, race, contest, or happening of an uncertain event.

• All forms of casino games are legal on Indian lands
• Live horse racing is permitted at licensed tracks
• League bowling gambling is legal up to $1,000
• Bingo, millionaire parties, and redemption games are legal
• No mention of state-mandated maximum bets found

If you’d like to read the laws yourself, you’ll want to direct yourself to Michigan Penal Code Chapter 750, sections 301 through 315a and the Michigan Gaming Control and Revenue Act.

Mgm Online Casino Michigan Entertainment

The Future of Michigan Online Casinos

Online gambling websites and Michigan casino gambling apps should be excited about our prediction. We predict the governing body will roll out positive language outlining the guidelines for real money Michigan online gaming in the near future. We can’t confirm this and don’t know when it would be, but we feel strongly about the prediction. The state of MI has already demonstrated it understands the value the real money gambling industry can bring to the economy, and they seem to be happy as long as they are getting their cut.

Currently, online gambling for money in Michigan is legal. The changes we see coming would affect the casino operations and how they are regulated. Right now, it’s like the Wild West. You wouldn’t notice much of a change to the existing online casino apps or MI gambling sites you’re using. What you would see, though, is more companies entering the market. This influx means more options to choose from and bigger casino bonuses as companies compete for your business.

Michigan Online Casinos FAQ

Online Gambling Michigan

• They are! If you stick to safe Michigan casino gambling sites and follow basic safety rules, your online betting experience will be 100% secure. Here are a few quick tips to keep safe:

  • Ensure your antivirus software is up to date
  • Don’t gamble on shared networks
  • Use a strong, hard to crack password
  • Keep your password secure; never store it on your computer
  • Don’t bet more money than you are okay potentially losing
  • Never play online casino games for money when you’re mad, sad, or intoxicated
  • Always use reputable Michigan online casinos

• While some would say this is a gray area up for discussion, we interpret it as cut and dry. Real money online gambling in Michigan is legal. There are no laws on the books that state it is illegal. If you’d like to hear our full breakdown, scroll up to the legal section of this guide. If you want a solid, concrete answer, you will need to consult with a gaming attorney specializing in MI law.

• Yes! The top real money online casinos accepting Michigan players allow you to play your favorite casino games online. Get the same opportunities to win big without ever leaving the house. This should sound awesome, especially when there’s six feet of snow piled up outside.

• What Types of Games Can I Play at Michigan Online Casino Sites?

  You have plenty of options when you gamble online in Michigan. You’re able to play table games, casino-style games, keno, bingo, slots, sports bets, and you can also bet on dogs/horses. Anything that you can bet on in brick and mortar casinos (and more) is also available for gambling online in Michigan.

• How Different Are the Online Casino Games From the Ones I Play at the Local Casino?

  Not all that different. The games available at the best Michigan online casino apps and casino websites are identical to the games played in brick and mortar casinos. The rules are the same, the way you win is the same, and the way you’re paid out is the same. Online casinos aim to mirror the action you get in person while simultaneously adding in the conveniences of the internet. It’s a harmonious match made in heaven!