Online poker in Michigan has become increasingly popular at offshore casinos, despite the Lawful Internet Gaming Act making online gambling legal in 2019. Regardless, plenty of MI residents still choose offshore casinos over locally regulated sites for a variety of reasons. From crypto-deposits to large welcome bonuses and next-level poker tournament access, offshore casinos simply offer more.
Continue reading for a more detailed analysis of the top poker platforms making headlines in recent Michigan online poker news, as well as more on the legal status of online poker in MI. If you’re new to the online gaming world, read on for some helpful tips on getting set up as an online poker player and how to maximize your experience with casino bonuses and exclusive promotions.
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Below you will find a summarized list of the best online poker platforms available in the state of Michigan.
- BetOnline – The Number One MI Online Poker Platform
- Bovada – Hard to Beat Daily Jackpot
- Everygame – Win $1,000,000 At $10 Windfall SNG Tables
- SportsBetting.ag – Crypto Players Claim Weekly Freeroll Tickets
- Ignition – 50-Tier Loyalty Program Offers Non-Stop Rewards
The Latest Michigan Poker News
Permittance of commercialized casinos on state ground was passed in the late ’90s. Not long after, internet gambling started gaining popularity worldwide. However, it took almost 2 decades for online gambling in any form to be authorized in MI, making them the third US state to legalize online gambling. Fortunately, poker players looking to take their gaming careers virtual have access to some of the best offshore platforms available on the internet. Below is an outline of some of the most recent advances in Michigan online poker news and legislature.
January 2021: Online gambling at state-based poker rooms commences.
December 2019: Online gambling in the form of sports betting and poker is legalized.
March 2019: Motions to appeal live and online gambling restrictions begin.
Reviews of the Best Michigan Online Poker Sites
MI poker players have done a good job at expanding their horizons as they turn to legitimate offshore poker rooms offering the ultimate online gaming experience with safety in mind. Below we uncover the most notable aspects of the top real money poker sites in Michigan, as well as a summarized list of highs and lows for each casino to help you make an informed decision before diving in.
1. BetOnline – The Number One MI Online Poker Platform
- Website: betonline.ag
- Payout time: 48 hours – 10 days
- Established: 2001
- License: Panama Gaming Commission
- Headquarters: Panama
Our Verdict: 4.5/5
As outlined in our BetOnline review, this online poker room goes unmatched by other big-deal real-money poker casinos on the market. From Bad Beat jackpots guaranteed to all players at the table each time a four-of-a-kind loses, to million-dollar SNGs, the promotions offered at this MI online poker room are mostly satisfactory.
We were happy to find that the rollover requirements at both SNG and tournament tables were fair and market-related. The tournament jackpots are huge in comparison to other top poker rooms in MI, making BetOnline one of the best high-roller casinos. This platform also offers a designated poker app for those looking for an on-the-go gambling option. We are happy to report that the app ran smoothly, and the same generous poker welcome bonus found on the web-based app can also be claimed by mobile users.
Poker Game Variety at BetOnline: 4.7/5
Texas Hold’em, ranks comfortably as the most enjoyed table variation amongst BetOnline players, with Omaha coming in at a close second. Both formats are offered at tables with varying stakes and in all three poker formats – pot limit, no limit, and limit. Some of the other notable variations include Windfall Poker, Six Plus Hold’em and Boost Poker. BetOnline claims that finding a better poker variety anywhere else would be near impossible and that if players are looking for something different, they’ll need to venture out into other gaming markets such as roulette or blackjack.
Payment Options: 4.8/5
Sporting one of the vastest cashier pages we’ve seen to date, we were impressed to find over 20 supported transaction methods in the form of Cryptocurrency and traditional payment methods such as wire transfers and credit/debit cards. BetOnline promotes certain methods such as Bitcoin by offering exclusive benefits to those users. These benefits generally include faster transactions, zero fees, and occasionally even a reload bonus. Certain payment methods may take up to 10 days though, while others are instant.
Customer Support: 4.5/5
Reaching support can be done in three different ways at BetOnline, which is more than we can say for most online casinos in general. You may choose between email, live chat, and direct calls. We found the live chat option the most convenient as it was the least time-consuming. Once you have received the support you required, you are also given the option to request a transcript of the chat to be sent to your email address. All three options are available around the clock, seven days a week, so it was fairly difficult to find fault in their service.
Bonuses & Promos: 4.3/5
There is a satisfactory array of poker promotions to be claimed by players residing in the state of Michigan. In particular, you’ll find plenty of reload bonuses in generous frequency starting from the very first time you make a deposit after registering your account. Promotions such as the ongoing $1M Windfall SNG offer lower stake players the chance to win in big at a $10 3-player hyper-turbo sit-and-go table. Just be sure to enter your BetOnline promo code before finalizing your deposit. Here is a compilation of the top bonuses at BetOnline for MI online poker players.
Bonus name Bonus amount Promo code Rollover Minimum deposit Bitcoin accepted? Poker Welcome Bonus 100% up to $1,000 INSIDERS N/A $50 ✅ Casino Welcome Bonus 100% up to $1000 INSIDERS 30x $25 ✅ 1st Time Crypto Bonus 100% up to $1000 INSIDERS 14x $20 ✅ Lifetime Reload Bonus 25% up to $250 INSIDERS 6x $50 ✅ Crypto Reload Bonus 35% up to $350 INSIDERS 8x $20 ✅ Bitcoin Boost 10% with no limit INSIDERS 10x N/A ✅ Pros:
- No table limit during tournament play
- Largest selection of poker variations
- Fair rollover requirements
- Zero fees for players transacting with Crypto
- Bitcoin players claim exclusive reload bonuses
Cons:
- Payouts are processed on weekdays
- Credit cards incur higher fees
2. Bovada – Hard to Beat Daily Jackpot
- Website: bovada.lv
- Payout time: 24 – 48 hours
- Established: 2011
- License: Curacao e-Gaming Authority
- Headquarters: Costa Rica
Our Verdict: 4.4/5
In most ways, we consider this platform an all-rounder. There wasn’t a single aspect of the casino that sparked any particular concern, though we felt that the customer service offering could use a bit of work. For the typical poker player, we found the poker offering to be more than suitable for players looking to commit long-term.
We particularly enjoyed the unique game variations, but the loyalty program took the cake on this one. Players are automatically added to their rewards program where they will gradually claim better rewards as they earn more rewards points. Earning points are made simple as they are automatically added to your account when you wager. Check out our Bovada review for more on why this poker room deserves our seal of approval.
Poker Game Variety at Bovada: 4.7/5
As is the trend these days, Omaha and Texas Hold’em have unsurprisingly also grabbed the Bovada player pools. Gaming formats like Bovada’s unique Zone poker make online gameplay even faster for those on the go. Those looking to take their time and pace themselves to a big win might fancy the higher-paying, million-dollar tournaments held over a few days. We found the large Sunday jackpots exciting as you can play your way to enter or opt to buy in, but those tickets don’t come cheap.
Payment Options: 4.3/5
For an industry-leading casino, we were surprised to find a substandard selection of transaction methods such as e-Wallets. Fortunately, the methods that are supported make it fairly accessible for most players. Bovada has a unique feature called a player transfer which allows players to instantly transfer funds from their own casino account directly into the account of friends.
Customer Support: 4.0/5
Support is initially offered in the form of a well put together FAQ section. Once you have established that the information you are looking for is not there, an option to make direct contact with support via email or live chat is suggested. The email option may result in a 48-hour waiting period, but the live chat team generally gets to the bottom of queries within minutes. We think the customer service aspect of this casino could use some smoothing out, but it isn’t bad.
Bonuses & Promos: 4.8/5
The promotional offers at Bovada are where the site most notably succeeds. With over 5 different welcome bonuses and a rewarding loyalty program, both new and existing players enjoy enhancements to their bankroll on a regular basis. Poker players looking to transact using Bitcoin claim exclusive rewards, while all players have access to exciting promo events with themes running in sync with US holidays. Check out our Bitcoin poker guide to get your hands on these unique rewards too.
Bonus name Bonus amount Promo code Rollover Minimum deposit Bitcoin accepted? Poker Welcome Bonus 100% up to $500 INSIDERS N/A N/A ✅ Bitcoin Casino Welcome Bonus 125% up to $3,750 INSIDERS 25x N/A ✅ Refer A Friend 200% up to $250 per friend + $75 if they use Crypto N/A 30x Rewards Points per poker dollar $20 ✅ Casino Welcome Bonus 100% up to $3,000 INSIDERS 25x N/A ✅ Bitcoin Sports Welcome Bonus 75% up to $750 INSIDERS 30x N/A ✅ Sports Welcome Bonus 50% up to $250 INSIDERS 30x N/A ✅ Pros:
- Fantastic rewards program
- No min. deposit requirements
- Rollover requirements are fairly low
- Million-dollar poker tournaments
- High foot traffic
- One of the best bitcoin poker sites
Cons:
- SNGs do not support anonymous play
- Credit card transactions accrue high fees
3. Everygame – Win $1,000,000 At $10 Windfall SNG Tables
- Website: everygame.eu
- Payout time: 48 hours – 15 business days
- Established: 1996
- License: Curacao e-Gaming Authority
- Headquarters: Antigua
Our Verdict: 4.3/5
Everygame, one of the best Curacao casinos, is our idea of an all-rounder in terms of poker offering and gaming experience. We were a bit disappointed to find that the user interface has not yet undergone any makeovers, which could very well be all it takes to rank even higher on our list of the top platforms for players looking to play real money online poker in Michigan.
Overall, however, this casino offers a solid space for poker players looking to win their share of large jackpots and compete in some of the world’s most prominent poker tournaments such as the World Series of Poker Circuit. Unique features such as the Bubble Protection promo in which qualifying players may reclaim buy-ins and entries after certain events are exactly what makes this casino one of the best options for MI online poker players.
Poker Game Variety at Everygame: 4.2/5
Both high rollers and poker noobs alike enjoy an endless range of table buy-ins starting from as little as 2c. Texas Hold’em and Omaha are the only poker games on offer at Bovada but as we have observed in other reviews, these are the games of choice amongst most player pools anyway. One of our favorite parts about Bovada is that all games can be accessed on the mobile app so those playing on the go don’t need to forfeit their all-in experience, but multi-table tournaments aren’t supported.
Payment Options: 4.5/5
The Everygame poker room supports Crypto and traditional payment methods, ensuring that this world-class gaming experience is accessible to all demographics. Although prominent e-Wallets on the market such as PayPal aren’t a supported option for Everygame players, we were satisfied with the number of benefits players opting for certain methods can claim. For instance, traditional methods like VISA/Mastercard transactions incur zero fees, making Everygame one of the best credit card casinos in the industry.
Customer Support: 4.2/5
We were happy to see a designated email address for customers looking for specific information pertaining to a certain gaming market, such as poker or casino. If you need immediate assistance, the live chat box is a handy tool as you’ll be able to chat with a representative around the clock, though we did find that the response time varies from a few seconds to a few minutes.
Bonuses & Promos: 4.4/5
Exclusive bonuses for poker players at Everygame are slightly limited, but the promotional events are what carry the Everygame reputation. Tournaments are updated regularly with large jackpots to be won. No-deposit bonuses in particular are one of the major drawcards for this casino, not to mention the freeroll tournaments that run regularly, especially around the holidays. Speaking of, Everygame periodically runs unique tournaments offering players a chance to win a trip to an international poker destination.
Bonus name Bonus amount Promo code Rollover Minimum deposit Bitcoin accepted? Poker Welcome Bonus 200% up to $1,000 INSIDERS N/A $25 ✅ Welcome Bonus 125% up to $1,000 INSIDERS N/A $20 ✅ Rookie Raise Welcome Package 125% up to $5,555 INSIDERS 30x $20 ✅ Pros:
- Win nternational trips
- Exciting loyalty program bonuses
- A large variety of table buy-ins
- Live customer support is available 24/7
- Zero fees when using VISA/Mastercard
Cons:
- Bonus offers are limited
4. SportsBetting.ag – Crypto Players Claim Weekly Freeroll Tickets
- Website: sportsbetting.ag
- Payout time: 24 – 48 hours
- Established: 2003
- License: Panama Gambling Control Board
- Headquarters: Panama
Our Verdict: 4.3/5
From an exciting bonus offering guaranteed to keep enhancing your bankroll to the large tournament prize pools, this platform is great for any players looking to transition into a virtual gaming experience. The designated poker software makes navigating through the platform more fluid but that being said, we weren’t disappointed with the web version of the poker room. Crypto players will be particularly pleased with their exclusive rewards at Sportsbetting, one of the top crypto poker sites.
There are various tournaments in play at any given time on the site, so you’ll almost always find a place at a table without having to wait very long. If you’re particularly keen on fast gameplay, the $1M Windfall jackpot is a great opportunity for SNG players to win up to 100,000x their buy-in at a 3-player hyper-turbo table. The only aspect of this casino that didn’t quite meet our expectations was the terms associated with certain deposit and withdrawal methods.
Poker Game Variety at Sportsbetting.ag: 4.0/5
Playing at your own pace is always an option at Sportsbetting as gaming formats such as freezeout, Turbo or deep stack are almost always available thanks to Sportsbetting’s high foot traffic tables. Winning potential is high in this poker room, with prize pools reaching as much as 2,000 times table buy-ins, just another advantage of committing to a well-renowned online casino with plenty of poker enthusiasts.
Payment Options: 4.1/5
There are plenty of deposit methods to choose from when signing up as a Michigan online poker player on this platform. The minimum deposit amounts vary greatly across the different methods, with some requiring a minimum of $20 and others requiring as much as $1,500. As for the withdrawals, most of the terms were pretty fair but we weren’t a fan of the high minimum withdrawal requirement of $500 on the traditional methods such as Bank Wire Transfer and Check by Courier.
Customer Support: 4.6/5
Support comes in three forms at this poker room – live chat, telephone, and email. The site does recommend that you contact support via their live chat box to receive faster responses, however, both their telephone and email options are available around the clock if you would prefer. We found their support team pretty efficient via all three of their support options.
Bonuses & Promos: 4.4/5
Players opting to transact using Crypto will find themselves in a particularly advantageous position as they continue to claim reload bonuses every time they deposit into their Sportsbetting account. Reload bonuses are also offered to players transacting using other methods but these bonuses aren’t nearly as large. Overall, the bonus offering at this poker room was impressive and we’d consider this a great option for players looking to commit to an online poker room for the long term.
Bonus name Bonus amount Promo code Rollover Minimum deposit Bitcoin accepted? First Deposit Bonus 100% up to $1,000 INSIDERS N/A $50 ✅ Welcome Bonus 50% up to $1,000 INSIDERS 10x $55 ✅ Crypto 1st Time Bonus 100% up to $1,000 INSIDERS 14x $20 ✅ Casino Welcome Bonus 100% up to $3,000 INSIDERS 40x $25 ✅ Refer A Friend 200% up to $200 + $44 in tournament credit N/A N/A N/A ✅ Reload Bonus 25% up to $250 INSIDERS 6x $50 ✅ Crypto Reload Bonus 35% up to $350 INSIDERS 8x $20 ✅ Pros:
- Exciting benefits for Crypto players
- Wide selection of bonus rewards
- Lifetime reload bonuses for all players
- Unlimited refer-a-friend bonuses
- Support via live chat, telephone, and email
Cons:
- High minimum withdrawal requirements for select methods
- Low maximum withdrawal amounts for select methods
5. Ignition – 50-Tier Loyalty Program Offers Non-Stop Rewards
- Website: ignition.eu
- Payout time: 24 – 48 hours
- Established: 2016
- License: Kahnawake Gaming Commission
- Headquarters: Costa Rica
Our Verdict: 4.1/5
Putting Ignition on our list of the top poker sites for Michigan online poker players was pretty much a no-brainer from the moment we signed up and claimed the massive welcome bonus. The user interface was sleek, and the navigation was straightforward. The customer service offer was slightly disappointing if you compare it to other systems on the market, but it wasn’t nearly bad enough to consider removing them from our list of top performers.
Ignition is a great option for new poker players, looking to perfect their gameplay as there are low buy-in tables in play constantly, as well as regular freeroll tournaments so even lower-stake players can find themselves competing for large jackpots on a weekly basis. The reoccurring Weekly Boost makes gameplay more exciting for Crypto players which is just one reason why we recommend Ignition, especially for players intending to transact using Bitcoin or other supported Crypto methods.
Poker Game Variety at Ignition: 4.4/5
There are various stake buy-ins at Ignition ranging from as little as 2c up to $999, making it a great option for both low-stake beginners and higher-stake enthusiasts. Poker variations are fairly good as players have the option to partake in fixed limit, pot limit, and no-limit Texas Hold’em, as well as Omaha high/low and Omaha each being offered in the same variations. Unique features such as Ignition’s anonymous play option makes adventurous gameplay more exciting and more noob-friendly.
Payment Options: 4.2/5
Ignition promotes Crypto transactions a lot throughout the site, as they offer players from all markets a chance to claim greater rewards for simply opting to use Crypto as their primary transaction method. By using Crypto, you’ll benefit from instant transactions, low service fees, and additional gameplay bonus offers updated frequently on the platforms’ promotions page. Other methods such as VISA/Mastercard are also supported. We couldn’t fault this platform on their cashier page.
Customer Support: 3.9/5
Support was not the greatest aspect of Ignition’s platform but if you can get over the slightly delayed responses, the support team is more than competent and friendly. Support can be obtained within 72 hours via the email option, 5-7 minutes via the onsite chat box, or via the Ignition forum in which other Ignition players may choose to answer your questions from experience.
Bonuses & Promos: 4.0
Ignition has one of the most fascinating promotion pages we have seen. Upon registering, you’ll claim a large welcome bonus subject to fair rollover. Going forward, you could stand a chance to win your share of $5,000,000 every single week. Not only was the in-game experience smooth and eye-catching, but we were pleasantly surprised to find that the promo page was filled with freeroll, reload, and unique gaming opportunities such as the royal flush bonus, all of which can be claimed using the Ignition bonus codes.
Bonus name Bonus amount Promo code Rollover Minimum deposit Bitcoin accepted? Poker & Casino Welcome Bonus 150% up to $1,500 INSIDERS 25x $20 ✅ Weekly Boost 100% up to $1,000 INSIDERS 35x N/A ✅ Tell A Friend 200% up to $100 + $25 for every friend that uses Crypto N/A 15x $20 ✅ Pros:
- Attractive, easy-to-navigate user interface
- Great option for new poker players
- Large prize pools
- Weekly freeroll for Crypto players
- Access to world-class tournaments
Cons:
- Delayed responses from customer support
- No downloadable poker app
More on gambling in Michigan…
Learn about all types of online gambling in Michigan in our expert guides below:
- Michigan Real Money Online Casinos
- Michigan Online Gambling
- Michigan Sports Betting Apps
- Michigan Casino Promos
- Michigan Sportsbook Promos
- Michigan Sports Betting
MI Online Poker FAQs
Is Online poker legal in Michigan?
What Is The Best Online Poker Site For Beginners In Michigan?
What is the most legit online poker site for Michigan?
Can I legally play poker online in Michigan?
Comparing Michigan Poker Sites
With hundreds of poker platforms on the market these days, the process of finding a casino that meets all your expectations while promising to deliver an exciting experience may take hours, even days. To help make your decision a little easier, here is a comparison of the best Michigan online poker casinos.
Poker Room Poker Bonus Promo Code Casino Poker Freerolls Qualifiers Guarantees BetOnline 100% up to $1,000 INSIDERS 18+ ✅ ✅ ❌ Bovada 100% up to $500 INSIDERS 7+ ✅ ✅ ✅ Everygame 200% up to $1,000 INSIDERS 22+ ✅ ✅ ❌ Sportsbetting.ag 50% up to $1,000 INSIDERS 15+ ✅ ✅ ✅ Ignition 150% up to $1,500 INSIDERS 7+ ✅ ✅ ✅ Is Online Poker Legal in Michigan?
Before the most recent gambling legislation revisions, Michigan online poker players were not deprived of world-class gambling opportunities in the slightest. Players turned to the top offshore gambling sites we have listed on our site, without any legal repercussions in over two decades of legislation denying local participation in online gambling.
Any concerns about the legal status of playing real money online poker in Michigan are a thing of the past as local lawmakers have authorized online gambling within the state. This permits players to participate in online gambling at locally based online poker rooms, however, offshore casinos such as the ones we have listed remain the best option for those looking for a top-notch gaming experience owing to the decades of experience in the gambling industry that they already have under their belt.
Online gambling in the form of casino games, poker and sports betting has been legalized in Michigan, however, anyone wishing to participate in online poker must first meet the minimum age requirement of 21 years. When the Michigan Gaming Control Board first authorized the launch of online sportsbooks in the state, they failed to include esports on their list of approved sports. Some local online platforms have gone ahead and included them anyway, but we’d suggest sticking to a reputable offshore casino to avoid needless legal repercussions.
Michigan Poker Laws
Both live and online poker for real money is officially legal in The Wolverine State. MI Poker players have their choice between over 25 live poker rooms, over a dozen of which are charity rooms. Below is a summary of the current laws pertaining to live and real money online poker in Michigan. These laws were passed by the Michigan Gaming Control Board (MGCB).
- Legalization of live poker rooms in 1996 – Michigan Penal Code Chapter 750, sections 301 to 315a; Michigan Gaming Control & Revenue Act – Michigan Compiled Laws Chapter 432
- Legalization of online poker rooms in 2019 – Lawful Internet Gambling Act of 2019
Previous Online Poker Michigan Bills
Fortunately for Michigan online poker players, the law no longer stands in the way of any players over the age of 21 wanting to participate in live or online poker. This wasn’t always the case, however. Here is a summary of online poker bills before it was legalized along with how they turned out.
2016 – A republican, going by Sen. Mike Kowall introduced a movement to make the operation of online casinos and participation in online casinos legal. This legislation would outline the legal operation of online gambling so long as it is provided by and regulated by the legal authorities overlooking gambling practices in commercial and tribal casinos. Before the bill was sent off to the house, it was abandoned by the Senate.
2017 – The Senate, Mike Kowall picked up where he left off, making adjustments to the bill. Months later, Rep. Brandt Iden’s legislation was passed on to the House. Within 3 months, the legislation was approved by the House Regulatory Reform Committee.
2018 – Just days before Christmas, Republican Governor Rick Snyder came to a pretty surprising decision. He ultimately vetoed the bill and offered an explanation outlining his concerns that such a bill would have a negative impact on the Michigan School Aid Fund, as well as the iLottery.
2019 – The Lawful Internet Gaming Act and the Lawful Sports Betting Act were publicly supported by Iden. Both of these proposals were passed by the House just before the end of October 2019. By the second week of December, this expansion of the gambling bill was passed by the Senate, following which it was signed by Whitmer just more than a week after.
Tax on Online Poker Winnings in Michigan
Both live and online poker winnings within the state of Michigan are taxed according to the same legislature, namely the Michigan Gaming Control and Revenue Act (Initiated Law 1 of 1996). This type of income is subject to wagering tax, calculated at a rate of 24% withholding for federal tax, however, this amount may vary according to your net income. The state implores all players participating in online poker to report all winnings on federal and Michigan tax returns.
The reason the rate at which you are taxed on such income varies is that the operator may be required to withhold a portion of your winnings should they exceed a certain threshold. Operators may give you a W-2G form, comprising your winning information such as the sum of winnings and any withheld taxes. A copy of this form will be sent directly to Internal Revenue Services. After that mouthful, it might be a good time to note that you won’t pay any taxes on any winnings from offshore online casinos.
Regulated Poker Sites vs Offshore Poker Sites
There are a few differences to note between regulated and offshore poker sites. These differences pertain to location, legal jurisdictions, and accessibility to players across the map. Below is a list in which we offer more insight into these small differentiations.
- Location – Regulated poker sites are all the sites that have received licensing from local regulatory authorities, for instance, US-regulated poker sites are all licensed to operate within the US. This differs from licensed offshore poker sites in the way that these platforms have all been licensed by authorities that oversee gambling practices within the region they are based. For instance, the Panama-based poker room, BetOnline, is an offshore casino licensed by the Panama Gaming Commission.
- Legal jurisdictions – Due to the generally strict nature of gambling laws in the states, offshore casinos have a fairly significant advantage over US-regulated casinos. This is because regulated poker sites may not legally operate in almost all states, with the exception of 6 (including Michigan). That being said, players opting for regulated poker sites do have the legal support of the US law to fall back on should any problems with gaming operations occur.
- Accessibility – Regulated poker sites automatically deny players from most jurisdictions as a result of geolocation technologies that have been established in an attempt to maintain legal harmony within the US borders. While the best offshore casinos are generally accessible to most players in gambling-banned areas, so long as the gambling legislation in their jurisdiction forms a legal grey area, neither permitting nor explicitly banning participation in online wagering.
Because online poker has already been legalized in the Wolverine State with plenty of regulated poker rooms coming to Michigan since 2021, the terms and conditions surrounding player pools have already been established. Looking back at 2021, when the very first regulated casino was introduced to the market, the player pools were completely ring-fenced. This meant that players within the state could only compete against players within the same borders whenever gambling at a regulated, state-controlled poker site.
As seen in recent Michigan online poker news, lawmakers have now expanded player pool horizons as MI online player pools have now been accepted into the Multi-State Internet Gaming Agreement (MSIGA). This was authorized by Delaware, New Jersey, and Nevada gaming regulatory bodies. The result of this transition is higher foot traffic which ultimately results in larger prize pools. Though this is positive, your winning potential is simply higher at offshore casinos where dozens of countries share the same pool.
How to Play Online Poker in Michigan
Taking your poker play virtual is as simple as these short steps
Step 1: Visit the BetOnline Homepage
Visit the BetOnline poker room using the web browser on your preferred device. Once you are on the BetOnline homepage, click the ‘Join’ button at the top of your screen.
Step 2: Complete the Registration Form
Fill in the personal information you are prompted to provide and confirm your registration by clicking the ‘Create Account’ button. Before you finalize your registration, be sure to double-check that the information you are providing is accurate as you will be required to verify this information at a later stage.
Step 3: Claim Your Welcome Bonus
Navigate to the BetOnline Banking page where you will take your pick between their list of supported deposit methods. Once you have established the right transaction method for you, click the ‘Deposit’ button and provide all your relevant payment information. Ensure to provide the relevant welcome promo code before finalizing your deposit.
Step 4: Play Your Favorite Poker Game
Take your pick between various poker tournaments and SNGs in the BetOnline poker lobby and find a table that suits your stake level.
Types of Poker Games available at Michigan Poker Sites
One of the most valuable aspects of a top-ranking real money online poker casino in Michigan is a good variety of poker formats to choose from. Below is a short description of some of the most common poker games found at world-class poker rooms such as BetOnline or Bovada.
Texas Hold’em
Currently ranking as the most common poker variation in the world, Texas Hold’em can be played in 3 different formats – namely No Limit, Limit, and Pot Limit. This variation outlines that the player is to make the best possible five-card poker hand using a combination of their hole cards and the community cards in the middle of the table.
Pot Limit Omaha
This very common variation of poker is also played in three formats – No limit, Limit, and Pot Limit. The main aspect of this game, differentiating it from Texas Hold’em is that players are dealt four cards, instead of two. Players are also required to make use of two cards when it comes time to showdown.
Omaha Hi/Lo
Players compete for both the high and low parts of the pot, making this a split-pot version of Pot Limit Omaha. A fixed limit is generally placed in this variation of the game. One of the most notable rules is that you must use exactly two cards from your hand and three cards from the board to assemble your high hand and your low hand.
Poker Site Bonuses available for Michigan Players
Michigan online poker players are fortunate to have access to some of the largest poker bonus offers in the country. With the value of online poker bonuses trumping the deficient bonuses offered at local live casinos, it is no wonder the Michigan virtual poker realm is growing so fast. What really makes these bonuses that much more exciting is that even the most amateur players can benefit greatly. We’ve provided a short explanation of the types of bonus offers you’ll receive once you register your online poker account.
Match Deposit Bonuses
Although this is the most common type of bonus you’ll find online, don’t mistake these bonuses for holding any less value. A great example of this type of bonus is the welcome bonus you’ll receive once you make your very first deposit. A real-life match bonus may look something like this – 100% deposit bonus up to $1,000! Therefore, you’ll receive an additional $500 for depositing $500 into your account – making your balance $1,000. But if you deposit $2,000, you’ll receive a maximum of $1,000 in bonus funds.
No Deposit Bonuses
This type of bonus doesn’t come around as often but they’re generally something you want to jump at if you have the opportunity because they are essentially free credits in exchange for nothing. A great example of a No Deposit Bonus would be rakeback. Offered by select casinos, this system allows players to reclaim a percentage of their lost wagers in the event that their winnings do not exceed their wagers. These bonuses generally have tougher wagering requirements.
Free Roll Tickets
This type of bonus is amongst the most valuable as they provide players the opportunity to compete in large prize pool tournaments that they may otherwise have not been able to afford. Free roll tickets are generally awarded to players for making use of certain payment methods such as Crypto or for reaching the next stage in a loyalty program. Either way, they’re not the type of bonus you want to miss.
Poker site Poker bonus Promo code Rollover Minimum deposit Bitcoin accepted? Expiration date BetOnline 100% up to $1,000 INSIDERS N/A $50 ✅ 30 days Bovada 100% up to $500 INSIDERS N/A $20 ✅ 30 days Everygame 200% up to $1,000 INSIDERS N/A $25 ✅ 90 days SportsBetting.ag 100% up to $1,000 INSIDERS N/A $50 ✅ 30 days Ignition 150% up to $1,500 INSIDERS N/A $20 ✅ 30 days Making Deposits & Withdrawals at the Best Online Poker Real Money Michigan Sites
Reputable payment methods such as those supported by the top MI online poker sites all possess encryption technologies to ensure your payment information remains private. None of our top recommended sites accept eWallets just yet, but we don’t predict this will last much longer. Below is a breakdown of what you can expect when transacting with different methods and the types of considerations to take into account before transacting.
Crypto at Poker Sites
Transacting using a cryptocurrency, such as Bitcoin, generally has the most benefits. This is because most of the top poker rooms have also been ranked as the fastest payout online casinos, and encourage Crypto transactions for their simplicity and efficiency, ultimately aiding in a smoother gaming experience for MI online poker fans. Crypto transactions usually incur low or even zero fees while transaction times are generally pretty low or even instant.
Traditional Payment Methods
This type of method is offered by most casinos because most people usually have access to this type of method in the first place. Examples of traditional methods include credit and debit cards. The downside to this method is that they are more often than not subject to higher fees. If this would be your preferred method, you might want to consider Everygame poker room because Mastercard/VISA payments are encouraged and subject to zero service fees.
eWallets at Poker Sites
This type of payment method is not yet offered by the top-ranking offshore poker rooms in Michigan, but it is a common payment method. This may be due to the additional SSL encryption security features or instant transaction processing time. Still, one thing we know for certain is that eWallets such as Skrill are generally subject to reasonable transaction requirements like low minimum deposit and high maximum payout terms.
Deposit Options Available at the Best Michigan Poker Sites
Below is some insight into which top MI online poker casinos support the most popular deposit methods.
Poker site Bitcoin Bitcoin Cash Ethereum Dogecoin Debit / Credit Cards Bank Transfer PayPal BetOnline ✅ ✅ ✅ ✅ ✅ ✅ ❌ Bovada ✅ ✅ ✅ ❌ ✅ ❌ ❌ Everygame ✅ ✅ ❌ ❌ ✅ ❌ ❌ SportsBetting.ag ✅ ✅ ✅ ✅ ✅ ✅ ❌ Ignition ✅ ✅ ✅ ❌ ✅ ❌ ❌ Withdrawal Options Available at the Best Michigan Poker Sites
Below is a breakdown of which casinos support the most popular withdrawal methods.
Poker site Bitcoin Bitcoin Cash Ethereum Dogecoin Debit / Credit Cards Bank Transfer PayPal BetOnline ✅ ✅ ✅ ✅ ❌ ✅ ❌ Bovada ✅ ✅ ✅ ❌ ❌ ✅ ❌ Everygame ✅ ✅ ✅ ✅ ❌ ✅ ❌ Sportsbetting.ag ✅ ✅ ✅ ✅ ❌ ✅ ❌ Ignition ✅ ✅ ✅ ❌ ❌ ❌ ❌ Playing on Michigan Online Poker Apps & Mobile Sites
All of the sites we recommend to MI online poker players have fully optimized web-based apps. This means that you can take the full gaming experience on the go with you, whether you have an Android or iPhone. Some mobile casinos offer exclusive bonuses to players accessing the site via the mobile web-based app, and you’ll find that most platforms have put extra effort into making their mobile software even more visually appealing.
Though there aren’t many, a disadvantage to bear in mind as an online poker player is that opting for a mobile version of your chosen poker room may prevent you from being able to take part in tournaments using a multi-table gaming format. Nonetheless, security is at an all-time high when gaming via your mobile device and you’ll be able to access all of the same games and bonuses no matter where you are.
Tips for Playing Online Poker for Real Money in Michigan
We have compiled a list of our top tips for setting up a healthy and successful online gambling hobby.
- Don’t forget the promo codes: In order to fully benefit from your casino’s poker offering, you’ll need to ensure that you are regularly checking the promotions page for updated promo codes to enhance your bankroll the next time you make a deposit. Remember to enter the promo code for finalizing a deposit to avoid missing out on bonuses such as those that are only valid for your first 5 deposits.
- Adjust your gaming limit settings: Gaming limits can be personalized to help you stay on budget. By sticking to a budget, you are setting yourself up for healthy gaming habits. You may choose to set a limit on the amount of time you spend wagering, the amount of money you spend per day/week/month, and how many times you can make a deposit. We recommend doing this before you start wagering whether you think you need it right now or not.
- Commit to the top poker site available: Considering that it costs you nothing to join an online casino, there really isn’t a good enough reason for you not to register at the top casino available to you as a MI online poker player. At BetOnline, you’ll get access to the best poker bonuses and tournaments without having to spend a cent more than you would spend anyway at a less exciting casino.
- Spend time fine-tuning your strategy: We know how tempting it may be to enter high-stake tournaments with large jackpots on offer. But it’s always best to finetune your game plan before risking it all. That being said, know the right time to fold! You can’t bluff your way to success every time.
- Make use of anonymous play settings: Anonymous gaming is great for beginners as it allows players more freedom to test different game strategies without someone recognizing them.
Playing Online Poker vs Poker Live in Michigan
If you have done any research into online gambling in Michigan before finding yourself on this page, you’ve likely read countless times that there are plenty of benefits to gambling online instead of at a brick-and-mortar casino. Here is a brief explanation of each advantage you’ll experience.
- Tournaments: The top real money online casinos in Michigan host multiple tournaments daily, each boasting a wide selection of table buy-ins. Tournaments at live casinos are generally less frequent, with the main difference being that there are fewer tables available which means fewer tickets and ultimately smaller prize pools in comparison to online tournaments in which thousands of players compete at the same time.
- Game selections: From Hold’em to Pot Limit Omaha and Omaha Hi/Lo, you’ll find that your poker variation options online and live are fairly similar, except for a few unique formats being played online.
- Pacing: Waiting endlessly for a seat at your preferred stake table is no longer an issue. Online poker means instant gaming. With special game formats like zone poker in which you are automatically teleported to the next table after folding and features such as multi-table tournaments, a quicker gaming dynamic would be impossible to find.
- Flexibility: With the freedom to play your favorite poker games using a mobile device, you can game anywhere in the state without so much as putting your shoes on or sitting in peak hour traffic, hoping to make it to the tournament in time.
Live Poker in Michigan – Casinos With Poker Rooms
Looking to engage in a live card game of skill? These MI poker rooms are known for having a great atmosphere and having seated some of the greatest poker players produced in the state.
MotorCity Casino
- Address: 1777 3rd Ave, Detroit, MI 48226
- Opening hours: 24/7
With over 2 decades in operation, MotorCity has earned its spot as one of the best-rated live casino locations in the state. Players can look forward to over 59 different table games including Hold’em, Omaha Hi/Lo, 3-Card Poker, and Pai Gow Poker.
MGM Grand Detroit
- Address: 1777 3rd Ave, Detroit, MI 48226
- Opening hours: 24/7
This poker room operates around the clock, 7 days a week, and hosts a selection of high-stake tournaments frequently. Their most popular poker variations are Pot Limit Omaha, No Limit Texas Hold’em, and Limit Texas Hold’em.
Firekeepers Casino
- Address: 11177 E Michigan Ave, Battle Creek, MI 49014
- Opening hours: 24/7
Boasting a steady 4.2-star rating, courtesy of over 15 thousand google reviewers, this casino has what it takes to declare its ranking amongst the best of the best. Players can expect tournament action every day of the week, mostly in the No Limit Texas Hold’em poker format. Players also enjoy the Firekeeper Bad Beat Jackpots along with their impressive rewards program.
Famous Michigan Poker Players
If you think you have what it takes to turn your gaming hobby into a poker career, here’s a little inspiration for you.
- Ryan Riess: Ranking 28th on the US All-Time Money list, this MI-born poker pro’s biggest cash out trumps thousands of pro’s entire careers. He won a whopping $8,361,570 for winning the 2013 WSOP Main Event. His total career winnings total $15,992,921, with $1,896,885 coming from his online play.
- Joseph Cada: Best known as Joe, this poker millionaire’s top cash out trumps the likes of Ryan Ries by almost 200 thousand. His biggest win totaled $8,546,435 which he scored when he placed 1st at the 2009 WSOP Main Event.
The Best Michigan Online Poker Site
Opting for the best of the best comes at no extra cost to you as the player. By simply registering at the number 1 MI online poker room, you’ll receive an exciting welcome bonus to kickstart your poker play and access to some of the most prestigious poker tournaments on the globe. That’s right, using your mobile device, you can compete in million-dollar tournaments, against the globe’s most prestigious players.
We spent hours weighing up the pros and cons of hundreds of sites, but it didn’t take for us to establish the ultimate online poker experience in MI. Visit BetOnline Poker Room to start wagering and winning real money, playing the world’s most popular variations of poker.
Shannon Hundermark
Shannon Hundermark
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