What is an internet cookie?
Cookies are small files that serve one of two functions:
- Collect information about how people use a site
- Provide features to improve a user’s experience on a site
The two most common types of cookies are session cookies and persistent cookies. Session cookies are kept as long as your browser window is open. Persistent cookies are locally stored on your computer, even after your browser is closed. Persistent cookies remain on your computer until they expire or you delete them from your device.
The Minnesota Department of Revenue uses both types of cookies.
How does Revenue use session cookies?
We primarily use session cookies to count how many times our website is accessed and to gather information about how visitors use the site. We use the data to make the site better and more user-friendly. We may also use cookie data to prevent unlawful intrusions to government systems or as otherwise allowed by law. (See Minnesota Statutes, Section 13.15, subdivision 4.)
Specifically, we use these cookies to collect and identify the following types of information:
- Date and time of access
- Type and version of browser software
- Computer or mobile operating system
- Internet protocol (IP) addresses
- Internet address from which the site was accessed or linked
How does Revenue use persistent cookies?
Our e-Services system uses persistent authentication cookies to determine whether or not you are logged in to your account. Information we collect is classified as private or nonpublic data. (See Minnesota Statutes, Section 13.02.)
Persistent cookies allow us to guide you through our interactive applications. Our additional layer of security, Two-step Verification, uses persistent cookies. The cookie allows you to bypass the second verification step when you log in.
Note: The cookies only contain navigational information.
Additional information
- We will not associate any of the cookie data we gather with any taxpayer, individual, or other personally identifiable information.
- We will not distribute the cookie data we gather to any third parties.
- You may access our website even if your browser does not accept cookies. Refusing to accept a cookie will not prevent or prohibit you from gaining access to or using our website. (See Minnesota Statutes, Section 13.15, subdivision 5.)