Does Minnesota Require a DBA?

A DBA (Doing Business As) is also referred to as an assumed name in Minnesota. It is a name that a company employs that is distinct from the owner’s legal name or the name of the entity. If a business owner wants to use a name other than their own name or the name of their corporation, LLC, or partnership, Minnesota law requires them to file a DBA application.

The business owner must submit a Certificate of Assumed Name to the Minnesota Secretary of State in order to register a DBA in that state. The form can be submitted in person, online, or by mail. The registration is valid for five years, and the filing price is $50. The registration may be extended for an additional five years after the initial five years have passed.

Minnesota mandates that businesses register with the state in addition to having a DBA. The requirements for registration vary depending on the kind of business structure. For instance, the Minnesota Secretary of State must receive the Articles of Incorporation or Organization for corporations, LLCs, and limited partnerships. However, sole proprietors must register with the Minnesota Department of Revenue. Sole proprietors are not required to file any formation documents.

Getting an Employer Identification Number (EIN) from the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) is another necessity for businesses in Minnesota. A firm is identified for tax purposes by its individual nine-digit EIN number. The majority of businesses, including sole proprietorships, partnerships, corporations, and LLCs, are obliged to have it. Obtaining an EIN is a free process that can be completed online, by mail, by fax, or by phone.

A business owner in Minnesota must complete Form SS-4 and send it to the IRS in order to obtain an EIN. The form requests basic information about the company, including its legal name, address, and entity type. The business owner will get an EIN right away if they apply online, or within four weeks if they apply by mail, fax, or phone once they complete the paperwork.

A state tax ID number, sometimes referred to as a Minnesota Tax ID or a Sales and Use Tax Number, may also be required of enterprises in Minnesota. Businesses that operate in Minnesota, provide services there, or employ people who live there must have this number. A business owner must register with the Minnesota Department of Revenue in order to receive a Minnesota Tax ID number. Online, by mail, or over the phone registration options are available. Registration is free, and it normally takes a few days to complete.

Last but not least, Minnesota mandates that companies register their DBA, do so with the state, get an EIN, and maybe a state tax ID number. Depending on the type of business structure and the activities of the business, different regulations apply. To be sure they are in compliance with all state and federal rules, business owners should speak with an attorney or accountant.