Secretary of State Registration Requirement
Secretary of State Registration
Ensure your business meets Minnesota’s legal requirements to operate before contracting with Minnesota State.
Last updated: May 20, 2025
Background
In Minnesota, most businesses must register with the Secretary of State to legally operate. Even if exempt from registration, other licenses, permits, or registrations may be required, and organizations must still comply with tax, zoning, and industry rules.
Minnesota State procurement staff verify registration status before finalizing a contract. If your business is not registered, complete registration to proceed.
Common Exemptions
Sole proprietors and general partnerships operating under the full legal names of the owners are typically exempt from filing a business name. For example, “John Smith Painting” may be exempt, while “Smith Painting” would require registration.
Step-by-Step Process
Check Status or Register Online
Use the Business Services Portal to search existing records or start registration.
Go to Secretary of State Business Services PortalHow to Register Your Business
Review the Secretary of State’s step-by-step guidance for your entity type.
View step-by-step registration guideExceptions to Registration
Sole proprietors and general partnerships operating under full legal names of the owners are generally exempt from filing a business name. If operating under an assumed name, registration is required.
Foreign Business Qualification
Out-of-state entities must obtain a Certificate of Authority under Minn. Stat. § 303.03 before transacting business in Minnesota.
Certificate of Authority to Transact Business (by entity type)Registered Agent Requirements
- An individual Minnesota resident with a physical MN address; or
- A business authorized in Minnesota with a physical office.
The registered agent receives legal notices on behalf of the entity.
Secretary of State Resources
Contact
- Phone
- 651-296-2803 (Metro)
1-877-551-6767 (Greater MN) - business.services@state.mn.us
- Office Hours
- 8:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m., by appointment
Limited Liability Companies (LLCs)
Limited Liability Partnerships (LLPs)
Minnesota State Links
- Procurement on MinnState.edu
- Policy 5.14 – Contracts & Procurements
- Procedure 5.14.2 – Consultant & Income Contracts