How To Start An LLC In Minnesota In 2025
Everything you need to know about forming an LLC in Minnesota, plus our expert-tested recommendations for the best formation services in the North Star State.
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Minnesota offers an excellent environment for LLC formation with competitive fees and strong business support. With a $155 state filing fee and no annual renewal fees for on-time filers, Minnesota combines affordability with a business-friendly regulatory environment. The state's skilled workforce, strategic Midwest location, and comprehensive support programs make it an attractive choice for entrepreneurs.
Our top pick for Minnesota LLC formation is ZenBusiness. They offer fast processing for Minnesota LLCs, include a year of free Worry-Free Compliance, and their $0 formation package means you only pay the $155 Minnesota state fee. With their expertise in Minnesota business law and excellent customer support, they make the entire process simple and stress-free.
Featured Partners
- Best filing & protections
- Fastest processing
- Free compliance for 1 yr
- Award-winning support
On ZenBusiness's Website
- Best for standard filing
- Fast processing options
- Free yr registered agent
- Lifetime company alerts
On Bizee's Website
- Best legal services
- Fast processing options
- AI legal forms
- Trusted since 1999
On LegalZoom's Website
- Best branding services
- Fast processing options
- Logo & website builder
- Establish your brand
On Tailor Brands's Website
Compare the Best Minnesota LLC Services of 2025
Side-by-side comparison of features, pricing, and capabilities
| Feature | ZenBusiness Best Overall Value | Bizee Fastest Formation |  Inc Authority Free Formation | Tailor Brands Best for Branding | LegalZoom Best for Legal Support |  Rocket Lawyer Legal Documents |  BetterLegal Speed & Simplicity |  Active Filings Traditional Service |  Filenow Budget Option |  Northwest Basic Formation |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Starting Price | $0 + state fees | $0 + state fees | $0 + state fees | $0 + state fees | $0 + state fees | $99.99 + state fees | $299 all-inclusive | $199 + state fees | $99 + state fees | $39 + state fees |
| Our Rating | 4.9 /5 | 4.6 /5 | 4.4 /5 | 4.3 /5 | 4.2 /5 | 4.0 /5 | 3.9 /5 | 3.8 /5 | 3.6 /5 | 3.4 /5 |
| Standard Processing | 7-10 days | 3 weeks | 7-10 days | 3 weeks | 5-14 days | 5-7 days | 2 days | 5-10 days | 7-10 days | 7-10 days |
| Rush Processing | 1 day +$79 | 1 day +$49 | 2 days +$99 | 1 day +$99 | Standard speed | 2 days +$100 | 3 days +$50 | |||
| Compliance Tools | Worry-Free Compliance Free 1st year | Alerts only Basic monitoring | Basic tools Included | Basic alerts Included | Premium only Extra cost | Document library With membership | Limited Basic support | Basic tools Limited | None Not available | None Not included |
| Registered Agent | $199/yr Not included | Free Year 1 Then $119/yr | Free Year 1 Then $199/yr | $119/yr Not included | $249/yr Not included | $149/yr Not included | Included In base price | Free Year 1 Then $119/yr | +$125/yr Not included | $125/yr Available |
| Operating Agreement | +$99 | +$99 | +$50 | Included | +$99 | Included | Included | +$99 | +$40 | +$39 |
| EIN Service | +$99 | +$70 | +$70 | Included | +$159 | +$99 | Included | +$70 | +$50 | +$70 |
| Customer Support | Phone, Chat, Email | Limited | Phone, Chat | Phone, Email | Phone, Chat | Phone, Chat | Phone, Email | Phone, Email | Email only | Email only |
| Mobile App | ||||||||||
| Attorney Access | ||||||||||
| Get Started | Get Started Learn more → | Get Started Learn more → | Get Started Learn more → | Get Started Learn more → | Get Started Learn more → | Get Started Learn more → | Get Started Learn more → | Get Started Learn more → | Get Started Learn more → | Get Started Learn more → |
Note: State filing fees are additional for all services except where noted. Features and pricing may vary by state.
Our Top Picks for Minnesota LLC Services
Best Overall for Minnesota ZenBusiness excels at Minnesota LLC formation with their thorough knowledge of Minnesota's specific requirements. They include their Worry-Free Compliance for the first year (saving you $199+), handle your Secretary of State registration, and provide ongoing compliance support. Their team understands Minnesota's annual renewal requirements and can help ensure you stay compliant with all state regulations.
Best For:
Minnesota entrepreneurs who want comprehensive support and reliable, accurate filing
Pros
- Fast Minnesota LLC filing with expert support
- Free Worry-Free Compliance for 1 year
- Minnesota annual renewal reminder service
- Expert support familiar with Minnesota requirements
- 100% accuracy guarantee on Minnesota filings
- Free EIN and operating agreement with Pro plan
Cons
- Premium features require upgraded plans
- Registered agent is $199/year
Fast Minnesota Formation Bizee (formerly Incfile) offers reliable Minnesota LLC formation with expedited processing options. They provide a free Minnesota registered agent for the first year and their dashboard specifically tracks Minnesota's December 31st annual renewal deadline. Perfect for entrepreneurs who want comprehensive tools without paying annual renewal fees.
Best For:
Minnesota businesses needing efficient formation and ongoing support
Pros
- Expedited Minnesota processing available
- Free Minnesota registered agent for first year
- Lifetime company alerts for Minnesota compliance
- Dashboard tracks Minnesota annual renewals
- Free business tools and templates
- No hidden fees on basic package
Cons
- Operating agreement costs extra
- Limited phone support hours
Best Legal Support in MN LegalZoom brings decades of experience with Minnesota business formation. Their attorney network includes Minnesota-licensed lawyers who can provide state-specific legal advice. While their add-ons are pricier, they're ideal for Minnesota businesses with complex legal needs or those who want the security of professional legal backing.
Best For:
Minnesota businesses needing ongoing legal support and guidance
Pros
- Attorney consultations for Minnesota law
- Rush filing available for Minnesota
- Comprehensive Minnesota legal forms library
- Phone support with Minnesota expertise
- 30+ years serving Minnesota businesses
- Peace of mind guarantee
Cons
- Minnesota registered agent costs $249/year
- Operating agreement extra (+$99)
Best Minnesota Branding Package Tailor Brands combines Minnesota LLC formation with comprehensive branding tools. Perfect for Minnesota's diverse business landscape, they help establish your brand identity while handling the legal formation. Their packages include everything needed to launch a professional Minnesota business presence online and offline.
Best For:
Minnesota creative businesses and startups needing branding
Pros
- Logo design and branding included
- Website builder with Minnesota business info
- Business cards with Minnesota address
- Standard Minnesota processing
- EIN and operating agreement included
- Social media kit for Minnesota business
Cons
- Monthly subscription required
- No rush processing for Minnesota
Free Minnesota Formation Inc Authority offers genuinely free Minnesota LLC formation where you only pay the $155 state fee. They include a free Minnesota registered agent for the first year and handle all Secretary of State filings. While processing is slower than competitors, they're perfect for Minnesota entrepreneurs prioritizing cost savings over speed.
Best For:
Budget-conscious Minnesota entrepreneurs
Pros
- Truly free Minnesota LLC formation
- Free Minnesota registered agent for first year
- Free tax consultation for Minnesota businesses
- Handles Secretary of State filing
- No hidden fees on basic package
- Minnesota business forms included
Cons
- Processing takes 7-10 business days
- Minnesota registered agent renews at $119/year
- Aggressive upselling reported
Privacy Focused Northwest Registered Agent takes a minimalist approach to Minnesota LLC formation, focusing on privacy and straightforward service without the bells and whistles. They handle your Minnesota Secretary of State registration efficiently and provide registered agent services at competitive rates, making them ideal for business owners who prefer a simple, direct approach to LLC formation.
Best For:
Minnesota entrepreneurs who prioritize privacy and simple, no-frills service
Pros
- Strong privacy protection for Minnesota businesses
- Transparent pricing with no hidden fees
- Handles Minnesota Secretary of State filing
- No aggressive marketing or upselling
- Straightforward Minnesota LLC process
- Low-cost registered agent service
Cons
- Email-only customer support
- No rush processing for Minnesota filings
- Limited business tools and resources
- Basic operating agreement template
All-Inclusive & Fast BetterLegal offers a streamlined approach to Minnesota LLC formation with their comprehensive $299 service package plus Minnesota's $155 state filing fee. With guaranteed fast turnaround and transparent pricing, they're perfect for entrepreneurs who want speed and simplicity without hidden costs in their Minnesota LLC formation process.
Best For:
Minnesota businesses needing everything done quickly with transparent pricing
Pros
- Guaranteed fast Minnesota formation
- Everything included: formation, EIN, operating agreement, registered agent
- Transparent flat-rate pricing structure
- Minnesota-specific compliance guidance
- No hidden fees or surprise costs
- Streamlined single-package approach
Cons
- Higher upfront cost than budget options
- State filing fees are additional cost
- Limited ongoing support after formation
- Fewer customization options
Legal Platform Rocket Lawyer goes beyond simple Minnesota LLC formation to provide a comprehensive legal platform. With access to Minnesota-licensed attorneys and an extensive library of legal documents, they're ideal for businesses that need ongoing legal support. While formation takes longer than specialized services, the added legal resources make it worthwhile for complex Minnesota business needs.
Best For:
Minnesota businesses anticipating ongoing legal needs and document creation
Pros
- Access to Minnesota-licensed attorneys
- Comprehensive legal document library
- Ongoing legal support beyond formation
- Rush Minnesota processing available (additional fee)
- Minnesota business law resources
- Attorney consultations included with membership
Cons
- Monthly membership required for best value
- Minnesota formation takes 5-7 business days
- Higher costs compared to formation-only services
- Complex pricing structure
Traditional Service Active Filings provides reliable Minnesota LLC formation with a focus on personal service and phone support. While their pricing is higher than newer competitors, they offer a traditional approach that many Minnesota business owners appreciate, with knowledgeable representatives who understand Minnesota's specific LLC requirements and annual renewal deadlines.
Best For:
Minnesota entrepreneurs who prefer phone support and traditional business services
Pros
- Phone support with Minnesota expertise
- First year registered agent included
- Rush processing available for Minnesota
- Traditional, reliable service approach
- Minnesota annual renewal reminders
- Basic compliance tools included
Cons
- Higher starting price than competitors
- Limited online tools and resources
- Standard processing takes 5-7 days
- Fewer modern business features
Compliance Specialists Harbor Compliance specializes in the ongoing administrative and compliance aspects of Minnesota business ownership. While their basic LLC formation is straightforward, their real strength lies in helping established Minnesota businesses navigate complex regulatory requirements, making them ideal for companies planning significant growth or those with specialized compliance needs.
Best For:
Minnesota businesses with complex compliance needs or planning to expand
Pros
- Specialized in ongoing Minnesota compliance
- Corporate services and advanced structures
- Minnesota annual renewal filing services
- Business licensing assistance
- Registered agent services statewide
- Focus on regulatory requirements
Cons
- Higher fees for premium services
- Complex pricing for basic formation
- Longer processing times (7-10 days)
- Limited customer support hours
Minnesota LLC Requirements & Steps
What You Need to Form a Minnesota LLC
- ✓ Unique LLC Name: Must include "Limited Liability Company" or "LLC" and be distinguishable from other Minnesota businesses
- ✓ Minnesota Registered Agent: Required by law - must have a Minnesota street address (no P.O. boxes)
- ✓ Articles of Organization: Filed with Minnesota Secretary of State
- ✓ EIN (Federal Tax ID): Required to open a business bank account and hire employees
- ✓ Operating Agreement: Not required by Minnesota but highly recommended
- ✓ Annual Renewal: Due by December 31st each year (no fee for on-time filing)
Minnesota LLC Costs
- • State Filing Fee: $155 ($135 if filed by mail)
- • Registered Agent: $100-$300/year (or free first year with most services)
- • EIN: Free from IRS, $50-$150 through formation services
- • Annual Renewal: $0 if filed by December 31st
- • Name Reservation: $55 (optional, holds name for 12 months)
Minnesota LLC Timeline
- • Name Check: Instant online search through Minnesota Secretary of State
- • Processing Time: 3-5 business days standard processing
- • EIN Application: Instant online or 4 weeks by mail
- • Total Time to Launch: 3-10 business days with professional service
Why Form Your LLC in Minnesota?
Cost Advantages
- • No annual renewal fee for on-time filing
- • Competitive state filing fee
- • No personal property tax on inventories
- • Business-friendly tax incentives available
Business Environment
- • Skilled and educated workforce
- • Strategic Midwest location
- • Strong technology sector
- • Excellent transportation infrastructure
Government Support
- • DEED financing and loan programs
- • Business development incentives
- • R&D tax credits available
- • Strong startup ecosystem
Legal Protections
- • Limited liability protection
- • Pass-through taxation benefits
- • Flexible management structure
- • Strong business law framework
Minnesota LLC Frequently Asked Questions
How much does it cost to form an LLC in Minnesota?
The Minnesota state filing fee is $155 for online or in-person filing, or $135 if filed by mail. Additional costs include a registered agent ($100-$300/year, though many services offer the first year free), EIN application (free from IRS or $50-$150 through a service), and optional name reservation for $55. The best part is Minnesota charges no annual renewal fee if you file on time, making ongoing compliance very affordable.
Do I need a registered agent for my Minnesota LLC?
Yes, Minnesota law requires every LLC to have a registered agent with a Minnesota street address (P.O. boxes are not acceptable). The registered agent receives legal documents and official state correspondence on behalf of your LLC. You can serve as your own registered agent if you have a Minnesota address, but most business owners use a professional service for privacy and reliability.
How long does it take to form an LLC in Minnesota?
Standard processing for Minnesota LLCs typically takes 3-5 business days when filed online or in person with the Secretary of State. Some formation services offer expedited options that can reduce this timeframe. Mail filing generally takes longer. Once approved, you can immediately apply for an EIN online with the IRS, making the total time to launch your business typically under two weeks.
What is Minnesota's annual renewal requirement?
Minnesota LLCs must file an annual renewal by December 31st each year. The great news is that there's no fee for this renewal if you file on time! The renewal updates your business information including address, registered agent, and member/manager details. Failure to file can result in administrative dissolution, but most formation services provide reminders to help you stay compliant.
Can I form a Minnesota LLC if I don't live in Minnesota?
Yes, you don't need to be a Minnesota resident to form a Minnesota LLC. However, you must have a registered agent with a Minnesota street address. This is where professional registered agent services become essential for out-of-state business owners. Keep in mind you may also need to register as a foreign LLC in your home state if you're conducting business there.
What name requirements exist for Minnesota LLCs?
Your Minnesota LLC name must be unique and distinguishable from other businesses registered in the state. It must include "Limited Liability Company," "L.L.C.," or "LLC" at the end. You can check name availability online through the Minnesota Secretary of State website. Certain words may require additional approval. You can also reserve a name for 12 months for a $55 fee if you're not ready to form your LLC yet.
Popular Minnesota Cities for LLCs
- • Minneapolis
- • St. Paul
- • Bloomington
- • Plymouth
- • Duluth
- • Hibbing
- • Grand Rapids
- • Virginia
- • Rochester
- • Winona
- • Austin
- • Mankato
- • St. Cloud
- • Moorhead
- • Willmar
- • Alexandria
Ready to Start Your Minnesota LLC?
Join thousands of entrepreneurs who've successfully formed their Minnesota LLCs. Get started today with our top-rated formation services.