Navigating the Minnesota business entity search is essential for entrepreneurs, investors, and researchers who need to verify, register, or analyze business entities in the state. Whether you’re launching a new company, conducting due diligence, or validating the status of a corporation or LLC, this guide offers comprehensive insight into accessing accurate and up-to-date business data in Minnesota.
What is a Minnesota Business Entity Search?
A Minnesota business entity search is a free tool provided by the Minnesota Secretary of State that allows the public to search the state’s database for information about businesses registered in Minnesota. This includes corporations, limited liability companies (LLCs), partnerships, and non-profits.
The search function helps users:
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Verify legal existence of a company
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Review registration and filing history
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Obtain a business’s registered agent and contact information
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View entity status (active, inactive, dissolved)
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Analyze public documents like Articles of Incorporation or Annual Reports
Why Perform a Minnesota Business Entity Search?
Business entity searches serve multiple practical purposes:
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Startups can confirm whether a desired business name is already in use.
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Legal professionals can verify the standing and legitimacy of companies.
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Consumers may wish to validate a business before engaging in services.
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Financial institutions often require legal status checks before extending credit.
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Entrepreneurs use the tool during mergers, acquisitions, or partnerships.
Performing this search gives transparency and helps maintain compliance with state laws.
How to Perform a Minnesota Business Entity Search
Conducting a search is straightforward via the Minnesota Secretary of State’s website. Follow these detailed steps:
1. Visit the Official Website
Go to the Minnesota Secretary of State Business Fings Search page.
2. Choose the Search Type
There are two primary search options:
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Business Name
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File Number
Use Business Name if you only know the company’s name. Use File Number for more accurate results when you have the official number assigned to the business.
3. Enter the Information
In the search bar, type the full or partial business name or file number.
Use advanced filters like:
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Active or inactive status
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Type of entity (Corporation, LLC, Non-Profit)
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Exact match or starts with
4. Review the Results
Search results display:
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Business name
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Type of entity
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Status
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File number
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Registered date
Click on the business name to view detailed records, including:
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Business filing history
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Principal office address
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Registered agent name and address
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Historical filings and documents
Types of Entities You Can Search For in Minnesota
The Minnesota business entity search database covers a wide variety of organizations:
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Domestic and Foreign Corporations
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Limited Liability Companies (LLCs)
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Limited Partnerships (LPs)
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Limited Liability Partnerships (LLPs)
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Non-Profit Organizations
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Assumed Name (DBA/Fictitious Names) Filings
Each type of entity will have different filing requirements and data availability.
Benefits of Using the Minnesota Secretary of State Business Search Tool
1. Real-Time Information
The search portal provides live updates, ensuring users access the most recent filings and legal statuses.
2. No Fees Required
Minnesota offers this tool for free, with public access to important business documents and data.
3. Downloadable Documents
Most filings can be downloaded as PDFs, including Articles of Organization, Annual Renewals, Amendments, and Dissolutions.
4. Transparency for Legal Compliance
Businesses and legal teams can confirm whether filings have been accepted or if entities are in good standing with the state.
How to Reserve a Business Name in Minnesota
If your search reveals that your desired business name is not taken, you can reserve it online.
Steps to Reserve a Business Name:
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Visit the Minnesota Business Filings Online Portal
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Create or log into your account
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Select “Reserve a Name”
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Pay the $35 online fee or $55 in-person expedited fee
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Reservation lasts 12 months
This is highly recommended before filing Articles of Incorporation or Organization.
Registering a New Business in Minnesota
After ensuring your desired business name is available:
1. Choose the Entity Type
Select between:
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LLC
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Corporation
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Sole Proprietorship
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Non-Profit
2. File the Appropriate Paperwork
Use the online portal to file:
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Articles of Organization for LLCs
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Articles of Incorporation for Corporations
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Assumed Name Registration for DBAs
3. Pay Filing Fees
Standard online filing fees:
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LLC: $135
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Corporation: $155
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Assumed Name: $50
4. Obtain Your Certificate of Organization
Once approved, you will receive official documentation proving legal registration.
Check Business Status and Good Standing
To verify if a Minnesota business is in good standing, look for the “Status” field on the entity’s page in the search results. Common statuses include:
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Active/In Good Standing
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Inactive
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Dissolved
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Revoked
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Terminated
A company in good standing has:
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Filed all necessary reports
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Paid required fees
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Maintained a registered agent
Understanding Annual Renewals and Compliance
Businesses in Minnesota must file annual renewals to remain in compliance. The process is simple:
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Due Date: December 31st every year
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Filing Fee: $0 for renewals
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Failure to Renew: Will result in administrative dissolution
The business entity search helps confirm whether an entity has fulfilled these requirements.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the Minnesota business search database updated in real-time?
Yes, the system reflects real-time updates, including filings and changes.
Can I download historical business documents?
Yes, many filings such as Articles of Incorporation and Amendments are available for download.
Is it mandatory to file online?
While online filing is encouraged for speed and efficiency, some forms may be submitted by mail or in person.
Can I search for expired or dissolved entities?
Yes, use the filters to show inactive or dissolved entities in the search tool.
Additional Minnesota Business Resources
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Minnesota Secretary of State Business Services
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Minnesota Tax ID Registration: Minnesota Department of Revenue
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Employer Requirements: Minnesota Unemployment Insurance
Final Thoughts
The Minnesota business entity search is a robust, user-friendly tool that empowers users to access vital business records, verify compliance, and register new businesses. Whether you’re starting a new venture or ensuring a partner is legitimate, mastering this tool is crucial for business transparency and legal operations.
