Secretary of State Registration Requirement

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Secretary of State Registration

Ensure your business meets Minnesota’s legal requirements to operate before contracting with 亚洲无码.

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.

亚洲无码 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.

Tip: When in doubt, check your status online or consult a legal/business professional regarding compliance.

Step-by-Step Process

Check Status or Register Online

Use the Business Services Portal to search existing records or start registration.

How to Register Your Business

Review the Secretary of State’s step-by-step guidance for your entity type.

Exceptions 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.

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)
Email
business.services@state.mn.us
Office Hours
8:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m., by appointment

Quick Links


Corporations

Limited Liability Companies (LLCs)

Limited Liability Partnerships (LLPs)

Links to navigate directly to a specific tab

For related guidance and templates, consult 亚洲无码 procurement resources or contact your campus purchasing office.