Start a Business in Minnesota
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LLC, C-Corp, or S-Corp?
Choose which one is right for you.
Limiting Your Liability
Do you need liability insurance, limited liability protection, or both?
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This guide on starting your business in Minnesota provides step-by-step instructions on the paperwork to file formation documents, obtain tax IDs, and set up company records.
Step-By-Step Startup
Below is an overview of the paperwork, cost, and time to form each of the most popular business structures. Simply click on the link for your desired structure to view detailed step-by-step instructions.
- If you have not decided whether you want to form an LLC, corporation, or other business structure, click here.
- If wish to form your business in a different state than Minnesota, click here.
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Minnesota Limited Liability Company Click for step-by-step instructions |
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Minnesota Corporation Click for step-by-step instructions |
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Minnesota Nonprofit Click for step-by-step instructions |
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Top 5 Tips on Registering a Business in Minnesota
- Keep the original signed copy of your formation documents in your records. Submit a copy to the state.
- Not all businesses will need to obtain a Minnesota Tax ID and register with the Minnesota Department of Revenue. For those who do, Minnesota offers a consolidated state tax registration application.
- Corporations must comply with a specific list of record-keeping requirements. We'll explain the list of records you need to keep.
- If you are filing documents in Minnesota for a business entity such as a corporation or LLC, you will need to list a registered agent and registered office address. A Minnesota registered agent is sometime referred to as a resident agent or statutory agent.
- Both LLCs and corporations must file annual reports (also called annual renewals) with the Minnesota Secretary of State. A postcard/e-mail is mailed from the Minnesota Secretary of State to your registered agent.
