Compliance
Do You Need a License to Run a Non-Medical Home Care Agency?
In most states, yes. How the license depends on the services you offer, what six states actually require, what applications ask for, and how to check your state.
Do you need a license to run a home care agency in Minnesota?
Last verified October 17, 2026 · All Minnesota resources
Yes. Minnesota requires a state license to run a non-medical home care agency: the Basic Home Care Provider license, issued by the Minnesota Department of Health (MDH). Anyone who provides home care services must hold a home care license from MDH, at either the basic or comprehensive level. A basic license covers assistive tasks such as dressing, bathing, toileting, medication reminders, and standby help; housekeeping, laundry, meals, and shopping count only when paired with one of those tasks. Some arrangements are exempt, including home-management-only providers registered under section 144A.482 and basic care of up to 14 hours a week for one client.
What are the key facts?
| License required | Yes |
|---|---|
| License | Basic Home Care Provider license |
| Regulator | Minnesota Department of Health (MDH) |
| Fee | $2,100 initial (basic); annual renewal $231 to $7,651 based on prior-year home care revenue |
| Renewal | Every year (apply at least 30 days before expiration) |
| Rule | Minn. Stat. 144A.471-144A.482 |
How do you get licensed in Minnesota?
- Choose the license level (basic or comprehensive)
- Submit the application with owner and manager details, workers' compensation proof, and background study documentation
- Submit verified policies (maltreatment reporting, background studies, training, complaints, client rights, infection control, TB screening)
- Pay the $2,100 initial fee
What should you confirm with the state?
Agencies serving people with Alzheimer's or related disorders must provide dementia training, though no hours are set. Companion or homemaking-only services may be exempt depending on the services you provide; confirm with the Minnesota Department of Health.
What should you budget for?
The license fee is a small part of startup cost. Insurance, payroll for your first caregivers before clients pay, and office staff usually cost far more. Use the bill rate calculator to check your pricing covers it, and the intake form and care plan templates for the paperwork inspectors ask to see.
Sources
More for Minnesota
Agency licensing by state: other states
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Compliance
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Plan on 2 to 6 months in most licensing states. Statutory review clocks are 60 to 90 days, but they start only when your application is complete.
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