How to Request Your Truthful Reason for Firing Under Minnesota Statute 181.933

The Power of Minnesota Statute 181.933

Getting fired without an explanation is incredibly frustrating. In many states, employers can simply say 'it was not a good fit' and walk away. But Minnesota workers have a powerful tool at their disposal. Under Minn. Stat. § 181.933, an involuntarily terminated employee has the legal right to request the specific, truthful reason for their discharge in writing. This law is critical because it prevents employers from making up fake excuses months later if you decide to sue them for discrimination or retaliation. However, the clock starts ticking the moment you are let go. If you suspect you were fired illegally, finding a lawyer in our directory immediately can help you navigate this strict deadline.

Step-by-Step Guide to Requesting Your Reason for Firing

Step 1: Writing and Sending the Request Letter within 15 Days

You must act quickly. The law states you have exactly 15 working days following your termination to make this request. The request must be in writing. An email to your former HR department or a physical letter sent via certified mail is the best way to prove you met the deadline. Your letter does not need to be complex. It simply needs to state: 'Pursuant to Minnesota Statute 181.933, I am formally requesting the truthful reason for my termination in writing.' Make sure to save a copy of the sent email or the certified mail receipt.

Step 2: Preventing the Employer from Changing Their Story

Once your employer receives your written request, the law gives them 10 working days to respond in writing. Why is this so important? Because it traps the employer. If they write back saying you were fired for 'failing to meet sales quotas,' they are locked into that excuse. If you later file a lawsuit for age discrimination, and the employer suddenly claims to the judge that you were actually fired for 'insubordination,' your lawyer will show the judge the letter. The court in cases like Hoover v. Norwest Private Mortgage Banking, 632 N.W.2d 534 (MN Supreme Court 2001) recognizes that inconsistent reasons for termination are strong evidence that the employer is lying to cover up illegal discrimination.

Step 3: What to Do if the Employer Ignores Your Request

Many employers, especially small businesses in cities like Mankato or Bemidji, are completely unaware of this law and might ignore your letter. If the employer fails to respond within the 10-day window, or refuses to give a truthful reason, they violate state law. While you cannot sue them solely for ignoring the letter, their silence is highly suspicious. A judge or jury will look very unfavorably upon an employer who refused to provide a reason when legally required, making it much easier for your attorney to prove that the firing was illegal.

Step 4: Building the Foundation for a Wrongful Termination Lawsuit

Once you have the employer's written reason (or proof that they ignored you), you hand this evidence over to your employment lawyer. If the stated reason is a lie, or if the reason itself is illegal (such as firing you for requesting medical leave), your lawyer will file a lawsuit. They will file a Form CIV802, Minnesota, State Court Administrator, Civil Summons in the appropriate venue, such as the St. Louis County District Court, Duluth or the Olmsted County District Court, Rochester. The employer's written response will be 'Exhibit A' in your case.

How Much Does a Wrongful Termination Case Cost?

You do not need thousands of dollars in the bank to hold your former boss accountable. The legal system for employment rights is built on contingency agreements.

How Long Does the Legal Process Take?

The initial steps are fast: 15 days for you to request the reason, and 10 days for the employer to reply. However, if their response proves wrongful termination and you file a lawsuit, the civil court timeline is much longer. Reaching a settlement before trial often takes 4 to 8 months. If the company refuses to settle and you must go through discovery and a jury trial, expect the entire process to take 1 to 2 years.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)