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Minnesota Secure Choice Retirement Program Launches in 2026 - HR ALERTS

Minnesota Secure Choice Retirement Program Launches in 2026

Effective: January 19, 2026

Minnesota’s mandatory state retirement savings program is officially moving forward after a delayed rollout. Covered employers should begin planning now.


What This Is

The Minnesota Secure Choice Retirement Program is a state run retirement savings program that requires covered employers to facilitate payroll deduction contributions for employees who do not have access to a qualified retirement plan.

The Minnesota Secure Choice program was originally scheduled to begin January 1, 2025, but will now launch administratively on January 19, 2026. Employer registration will be required on a phased basis beginning June 30, 2026 for employers with 100 or more employees.


Who Is Covered

  • Minnesota employers with five or more covered employees

  • Applies if the employer does not already offer a qualifying retirement plan


How the Program Works

  • Employees are automatically enrolled into individual retirement accounts (IRAs)

  • Contributions are made through payroll deductions

  • Contributions may be made on a pretax or after tax basis

  • Employees may opt out or change their contribution rate at any time

  • Employers do not contribute to the accounts


Employer Registration Deadlines

Registration will be phased in based on employer size:

  • 100 or more employees: register by June 30, 2026

  • 50 to 99 employees: register by December 31, 2026

  • 25 to 49 employees: register by June 30, 2027

  • 10 to 24 employees: register by December 31, 2027

  • 5 to 9 employees: register by June 30, 2028


Why This Matters Now

Although the program does not launch until 2026, employers should begin evaluating whether their current retirement offerings meet exemption requirements or whether Secure Choice registration will be required.


Get day-to-day updates on Minnesota Secure Choice Retirement Program Launches in 2026 visit the Vida HR Knowledge Center (Vida HR Clients Exclusive).

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