Production Incentives in Minnesota

In order to qualify for the transferrable credit, production companies must spend at least $1,000,000 in-state on a single project within a consecutive 12-month period.

You must show proof that your project is at least 75% funded.

Projects must make best efforts to hire Minnesotans.

An independent CPA audit is required.

Applying for a Minnesota Film Production Tax Credit is a multi-step process. To be eligible, applicants must meet eligibility requirements as stated in the program guidelines. 

Applicants must apply for and receive a Credit Allocation Letter prior to beginning principal photography. Any expense incurred prior to issuance of a Credit Allocation Letter will be ineligible.

Applications are accepted on a rolling basis and must be received at least 30 days—but no more than 180 days—prior to the start of principal photography. Allocations are made on a first-come, first-served basis. Only production companies may apply.

*Compensation paid to above-the-line labor is capped according to Minnesota residency status:

Compensation paid to an above-the-line resident producer or director is capped at the first $500,000 in wages provided Minnesota withholding taxes are remitted. Individuals that hold more than one position are only eligible for one position.

For above-the-line nonresident labor, only compensation paid to one nonresident producer and one nonresident director will be eligible for the 25% credit. Compensation is capped at the first $500,000 paid to each individual in these roles (one each per episode if episodic) provided Minnesota withholding taxes are remitted. An individual holding more than one position is only eligible once.

Compensation to all above-the-line talent is capped at the first $1,000,000 in wages for each individual provided Minnesota withholding taxes are remitted.

All program guidelines and related forms may be found on the Explore Minnesota Film website.