Montana Secretary of State is a state agency responsible for overseeing elections, maintaining voter registration lists, administering motor vehicle registrations, and providing public records.
Here’s a quick overview of how the Montana Secretary of State works:
1. Register to Vote
You must register to vote before you can cast a ballot in an election. To find out when you need to register, visit montanavoters.org/register.
2. Check Voter Registration Status
Once registered, you can check your status by visiting votemontana.gov/voterstatus.
3. Update Voter Information
If you move or change your name, you must update your information within ten days of moving or changing your name. Visit votemontana.org/changeyourname to learn more.
4. Apply for a Motor Vehicle Permit
Before applying for a driver’s license, you must first obtain a permit. You can apply for a permit online at mvmotorvehiclepermit.mt.gov.
5. Renew Driver’s License
Your driver’s license expires every six years. You may renew your license online or at a Department of Transportation office.
6. Obtain a Photo ID Card
To vote in Montana, you must present a valid photo identification card issued by the United States government. Learn more here.
7. Request Public Records
Public records are documents that are open to the public and available for inspection. They include birth certificates, marriage licenses, death certificates, property deeds, court filings, and much more.
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Why should I run for Montana secretary of state in my business?
Montana Secretary of State, Matt Rosendale, was elected to his first term in office last November. He won over incumbent Democratic Secretary of State Linda McCulloch, who was appointed to her position after former Secretary of State Corey Stapleton resigned in 2017.
Matt Rosendale ran on a platform of fiscal responsibility, transparency, and accountability. His opponent, Linda McCulloch, ran on a platform of higher taxes, increased government spending, and expanded Medicaid.
While both candidates were critical of the state’s current tax structure, Matt Rosendale took a different approach. He called for reducing the sales tax rate from 6.25 percent to 5 percent, eliminating the corporate income tax entirely, and cutting property taxes.
McCulloch, however, said she wanted to raise taxes on businesses and individuals. She also proposed increasing the gas tax and implementing a “millionaire surtax” on high earners.
In addition to these proposals, McCulloch supported expanding Medicaid under Obamacare.
Both candidates agreed that the state needs to modernize its technology systems. They disagreed, however, on how best to accomplish this goal. While Matt Rosendale supports replacing the current system with a cloud-based solution, McCulloch wants to continue using legacy software.
How to Register Your Business in Montana Secretary of States Office
Starting a business is exciting! But before you jump right in, make sure you register your business properly. Here’s a step-by-step guide to registering your business in Montana.
1. Determine Whether You Need a Permit
Before you open your doors, you’ll need to decide whether you need a permit. There are different types of permits, depending on the type of business you’re starting. Check out these links to learn more about the different types of permits required for different businesses:
Montana Department of Labor & Industry – General Information
Business License Requirements
Permits Required by Type of Business
2. Obtain a Business Registration Number
Once you’ve decided whether you need a permit, you’ll need to obtain a registration number. To find out how to apply for a business license, visit the Montana Department of Commerce website.
After you receive your business registration number, you’ll need to apply for a name. Visit the Montana Secretary of State website to find out how to apply.
4. Pay Fees
You’ll also need to pay fees to the state. For information on filing fees, visit the Montana Secretary of State site.
5. Complete Other Forms
In addition to the forms mentioned above, you’ll need to complete several other forms. These include a Certificate of Occupancy, a Fire Safety Plan, and a Sales Tax Return. Visit the Montana Secretary Of State’s website to find out more about these requirements.
How much will it Cost for Montana Secretary of State Services?
Montana Secretary of State service is required for all individuals applying for a driver license or ID card. The cost of registration varies depending on your county. Here’s a breakdown of costs for counties across Montana.
1. Flathead County – $20
2. Lewis & Clark County – $25
3. Ravalli County – $25
4. Missoula County – $25
5. Sanders County – $25
6. Gallatin County – $25
7. Yellowstone County – $25
8. Big Horn County – $25
9. Cascade County – $25
10. Park County – $25
11. Treasure County – $25
12. Prairie County – $25
13. Judith Basin County – $25
14. Roosevelt County – $25
15. Lincoln County – $25
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I contact my state’s secretary of state?
The Secretary of State is responsible for administering elections in Montana. The Secretary of State’s office provides information and services to voters, candidates, political parties, and others interested in government and politics. You can find more information about the Secretary of State at www.sos.mt.gov or by calling (406) 444-2211.
Do I need to register my business in Montan?
Yes, you must register your business with the state of Montana. The registration process is simple and can be completed online. You will need a valid Social Security Number (SSN) for each person who works at your business. If you are not sure if you have an SSN, please contact us. We will assist you in obtaining one.
A Montana certificate of authority (COA) is an official document that certifies a business or individual as being authorized to do business in the state. The COA is required for any person, firm, corporation, partnership, association, joint stock company, limited liability company, unincorporated organization, government entity, or other legal entity doing business in Montana.
What does the secretary of state do?
The Secretary of State is responsible for administering elections, including voter registration and election administration. The Secretary also has responsibility for maintaining records of all voters in the state, ensuring that each person who registers to vote receives a certificate of eligibility, and overseeing the conduct of elections. In addition, the Secretary must appoint an inspector general to investigate complaints about voting rights violations.
The Secretary of State’s office administers the Uniform Voter Registration Form (Form VVU), which allows individuals to register to vote or update their information online. Voters may use this form to register to vote at any time during the year. However, if you register to vote for the first time, you must complete a paper application.
The Secretary of State’s office maintains a list of registered voters. This list includes the name, address, date of birth, and last four digits of the social security number of every registered voter in the state. The Secretary of State also keeps track of changes in addresses and names of registered voters.
James Rourke is a business and legal writer. He has written extensively on subjects such as contract law, company law, and intellectual property. His work has been featured in publications such as The Times, The Guardian, and Forbes. When he’s not writing, James enjoys spending time with his family and playing golf.
