2025 Session Last amended: 2018 session

§ 302A.401 — Authorized Shares

Plain-Language Summary

This law explains how a Minnesota corporation can issue shares of stock. The board of directors must approve any stock issuance. Shares can have different classes with different rights, such as voting power, dividends, and redemption terms, as set by the articles of incorporation or board resolution.

Practical Notes
When this applies: When a Minnesota corporation wants to issue stock, create different classes of shares, or change the terms of existing shares. Who this affects: Directors, shareholders, and anyone investing in or forming a Minnesota corporation. Key points: The board must authorize all stock issuances. Unless the articles say otherwise, all shares are one class with equal voting rights and a default par value of one cent. The articles or board can create multiple classes or series of shares with different rights — such as preferred dividends, limited voting, or redemption features. When creating shares with rights not in the articles, a statement must be filed with the Secretary of State before issuance (or within one year if shareholders were notified beforehand).