Wrongful Termination in Minnesota
Minnesota is generally an at-will state, but some firings are illegal. Here are the exceptions, retaliation protections and where to file.
Short answer: Minnesota is an at-will state: an employee may quit for any reason and an employer may fire an employee for any reason that is not illegal, such as discrimination. Minnesota Department of Labor and Industry, Employment termination
| At-will employment and exceptions | Minnesota is an at-will state: an employee may quit for any reason and an employer may fire an employee for any reason that is not illegal, such as discrimination. On written request within 15 working days of termination, the employer must give the truthful reason in writing within 10 working days. |
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| Whistleblower and retaliation protection | Employers may not fire, discipline or retaliate against an employee who in good faith reports a violation or suspected violation of law to the employer or a government body, takes part in a public investigation, refuses an order the employee reasonably believes is illegal (and says why), or reports health care quality violations. Source: Minn. Stat. 181.932 |
| Job discrimination complaints | Minnesota Department of Human Rights. The Minnesota Human Rights Act covers employers with 1 or more employees. A charge must be filed with the Department, or a lawsuit brought, within one year of the discriminatory act. Employer definition: https://www.revisor.mn.gov/statutes/cite/363A.03 |
Where to get help in Minnesota
More Minnesota employment law
- Minimum Wage in Minnesota
- Final Paycheck Laws in Minnesota
- Meal and Rest Break Laws in Minnesota
- Paid Sick Leave in Minnesota
- Non-Compete Agreements in Minnesota
- All Minnesota employment law rules
FAQ
Is Minnesota an at-will employment state?
Minnesota is an at-will state: an employee may quit for any reason and an employer may fire an employee for any reason that is not illegal, such as discrimination. On written request within 15 working days of termination, the employer must give the truthful reason in writing within 10 working days.
Is it illegal to fire someone for reporting a violation in Minnesota?
Employers may not fire, discipline or retaliate against an employee who in good faith reports a violation or suspected violation of law to the employer or a government body, takes part in a public investigation, refuses an order the employee reasonably believes is illegal (and says why), or reports health care quality violations.
Where do I file a job discrimination complaint in Minnesota?
Minnesota Department of Human Rights. The Minnesota Human Rights Act covers employers with 1 or more employees. A charge must be filed with the Department, or a lawsuit brought, within one year of the discriminatory act.
General legal information, not legal advice. Laws change and local rules can differ; check the linked official source or talk to a lawyer about your situation.