Scams & Consumer Issues in Minnesota

By CanISueForThis Editorial Team Reviewed by Editorial Team Updated March 21, 2026

Key Minnesota Law

Minnesota Statutes Section 325F.69 (Minnesota Consumer Fraud Act) and Section 8.31 (AG Private Right of Action)

Minnesota's Consumer Fraud Act prohibits fraud, false pretense, misrepresentation, misleading statements, and deceptive practices in connection with the sale of any merchandise. It is enforced through both the AG and, indirectly, through private lawsuits under Section 8.31.

View official statute

Procedural Details in Minnesota

Minnesota's consumer fraud framework is distinctive because the Consumer Fraud Act itself does not have an explicit private right of action — instead, private lawsuits are brought under MN Stat. Section 8.31 (subd. 3a), which allows individuals who are injured by a violation of specified consumer protection statutes to bring private claims if the lawsuit "benefits the public." This public benefit requirement can limit purely private disputes. Consumers may recover actual damages, costs, disbursements, and reasonable attorney fees. The statute of limitations under Section 541.05 is six years from the deceptive act. Minnesota also has the Unlawful Trade Practices Act (Section 325D.09) and the Deceptive Trade Practices Act (Section 325D.44), which allow injunctive relief. The Minnesota AG is very active in enforcement. Minnesota requires residential contractors to hold a Residential Building Contractor license under MN Stat. Section 326B.80.

Minnesota Agencies & Resources

Minnesota Attorney General — Consumer Services Office

Enforces consumer protection laws and accepts fraud complaints from Minnesota residents.

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Minnesota Department of Labor and Industry — Contractor Licensing

Licenses residential contractors in Minnesota; verify licenses before hiring.

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Frequently Asked Questions

How do private consumer fraud lawsuits work in Minnesota?

Private plaintiffs use Minnesota Statute Section 8.31 to bring claims for violations of the Consumer Fraud Act. Courts require the lawsuit to "benefit the public" — not just remedy a private dispute. This can be a hurdle for purely individual claims. Consulting an attorney familiar with Minnesota consumer law is important.

What is the statute of limitations for consumer fraud in Minnesota?

Six years from the date of the deceptive act under MN Stat. Section 541.05.

Does Minnesota require residential contractor licensing?

Yes. Residential building contractors in Minnesota must hold a license under MN Stat. Section 326B.80. Verify contractor licenses through the Department of Labor and Industry at dli.mn.gov before hiring.

What remedies are available for consumer fraud in Minnesota?

Actual damages, costs, disbursements, and reasonable attorney fees for successful private plaintiffs. The Minnesota AG may seek injunctions, restitution, and civil penalties.

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