Business License by State

Business License by State › Minnesota

Minnesota business license (2026)

Depends on the business. The Minnesota Department of Employment and Economic Development says: “In some cases, cities and counties may require a general business license that involves no more than registration and payment of a fee.”

  • State page read October 21, 2026
  • Quoted from the state

Minnesota at a glance

State rule
Depends on the business
Next step
Look up your industry’s license, and ask your city or county about a local one.
Forming an LLC
$155 with the Minnesota Secretary of State
Best overall in Minnesota

Mainstay Filing

Our rating: 4.9 out of 5

$199 / year, same at renewal

  • LLC formation, prepared and filed
  • Registered agent, all year
  • EIN application (with an SSN or ITIN)
  • Annual report filed every year it is due where the state requires one
  • Compliance reminders and stored documents

Price from the Mainstay Filing pricing and FAQ pages, checked October 21, 2026. State fees are passed through at cost and shown before you pay.

Questions

Does Minnesota require a business license?

Depends on the business. The Minnesota Department of Employment and Economic Development says: “In some cases, cities and counties may require a general business license that involves no more than registration and payment of a fee.”

Who do I contact in Minnesota?

Minnesota Department of Employment and Economic Development (page linked below), your city or county clerk, and the Minnesota Secretary of State for forming the company.

Is a Minnesota LLC the same as a license?

No. Forming the LLC is a filing with the Minnesota Secretary of State, which charges $155. A license, where one applies, is a separate step.

Sources