A General Partnership is a business structure in which two or more individuals manage and operate a business in accordance with the terms and objectives set out in the Partnership Deed. This structure is thought to have lost its relevance since the introduction of the Limited Liability Partnership (LLP) because its partners have unlimited liability, which means they are personally liable for the debts of the business. However, low costs, ease of setting up and minimal compliance requirements make it a sensible option for some, such as home businesses that are unlikely to take on any debt. Registration is optional for General Partnerships.
6 Essential Facts on Partnership
- What is a partnership firm?
A partnership firm is a business structure in which two or more individuals manage and operate a business in accordance with the terms and objectives set out in a Partnership Deed that may or may not be registered. In such a business, the members are individually partners and share the liabilities as well as profits of the firm in a predetermined ratio. - Why should I set up a partnership firm?
A partnership firm is best for small businesses that plan to remain small. Low costs, ease of setting up and minimal compliance requirements make it a sensible option for such businesses. Registration is optional for General Partnerships. It is governed by Section 4 of the Partnership Act, 1932. For larger businesses, it has lost its relevance with the introduction of the Limited Liability Partnership (LLP). This is because an LLP retains the low costs of a partnership while providing the benefit of unlimited liability, which means that partners are not personally liable for the debts of the business. - Is a partnership firm a separate entity?
The partners in a partnership firm are the owners, and thus, are not a separate entity from the firm. Any legal issues or debt incurred by the firm is the responsibility of its owners, the partners. - How many partners can there be?
A partnership must have at least two partners. A partnership firm in the banking business can have up to 10 partners, while those engaged in any other business can have 20 partners. These partners can divide profits and losses equally or unequally. - Is partnership firm registration necessary?
No, registration of a partnership is not necessary. However, for a partner to sue another partner or the firm itself, the partnership should be registered. Moreover, for the partnership to bring any suit to court, the firm should be registered. For this reason, it is recommended that larger businesses register the partnership deed. - What are the main aspects of a partnership deed?
The deed should contain names of the partners and their addresses, the partnership name, the date of commencement of operation of the firm, any capital invested by each partner, the type of partnership and profit-sharing matrix, rules and regulations to be followed for intake of partners or removal.
Documents Required for Partnership Registration
- Form No. 1 (Application for registration under Partnership Act)
- Original copy of Partnership Deed, signed by all partners
- Affidavit declaring intention to become partner
- Rental or lease agreement of the property/campus on which the business is set