Partnership Firm
A partnership is when two or more people agree to share the profits of a business they run together.
This requires three things:
- 1.an agreement between the individuals,
- 2.an agreement to share profits, and
- 3.the business being run by one or all of the individuals.
These are the essential elements of a partnership as stated in Section 4 of the Indian Partnership Act.
Documents Required
- Pan Card of Partners
- Aadhar Card of Partners
- Rental Agreement
- Electricity Bill
- NOC from Landlord
| Features | Proprietorship | Partnership | LLP | Company |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Definition | An unincorporated business managed by a single individual who has unlimited personal liability for the business’s debts and obligations. | A legally binding agreement between two or more parties to jointly own and manage a business, sharing the profits and losses as per the agreed terms. | A Limited Liability Partnership is a type of business entity where partners have limited liability for the company’s debts and obligations. It has a legal personality separate from its partners, but is managed by them. | A legally recognized business entity that is separate from its owners/shareholders and has limited liability. It can be either privately or publicly owned, and can have a board of directors to manage the business. |
| Ownership | Sole ownership | Min 2 Partners, Max 50 Partners | Designated partners | Min 2 Directors, Min 2 Shareholders, Max 15 Directors, Max 200 Shareholders (For OPC: 1 Director, 1 Nominee Director) |
| Registration Time | 7-9 working days | 7-9 working days | 7-9 working days | 7-9 working days |
| Promoter Liability | Unlimited Liability | Unlimited Liability | Limited liability | Limited liability |
| Documentation | MSME, GST Registration | Partnership deed | LLP Deed, Incorporation Certificate | MOA, AOA, Incorporation certificate |
| Governance | - | Under Partnership Act | LLP Act 2008 | Under Companies Act, 2013 |
| Transferability | Non Transferable | Transferable if registered under ROF | Transferable | Transferable |
| Compliance Requirements | Income tax filing if turnover is more than Rs.2.5 lakhs | ITR 5 | Form 11, Form 8, ITR 5 | ITR 6, MCA filing, Auditor’s app |
Partnership Firm Registration FAQ's
How many people are required to start a Partnership firm?
The members can extend anywhere from 2-20.
Who can be a Partner in a Partnership firm?
Only a verified Indian citizen is eligible to partner in a partnership firm. However, non-residents with Indian origin can invest in a partnership with government approval.
What documents are required to register a Partnership firm?
Documents required for a partnership firm registration:
- 1.PAN Card
- 2.Identity proof
- 3.Address proof
- 4.Draft of the partnership deed signed and gratified by all the partners.
How much capital is required to start a Partnership?
The owners are given a free hand on investments with no minimum slabs.
What are the advantages of registering a Partnership firm?
Registering a partnership firm is highly recommended because only a registered partnership firm can file a lawsuit in any court against any partner or firm to enforce their rights under the Partnership Act. Additionally, a registered partnership firm is the only one eligible to claim set-off or other proceedings in a dispute with a party.
Is a partnership firm a separate legal entity?
Partnership firms and partners are considered the same legally. The partners have unlimited liability and are jointly and severally liable for the firm’s debts. Therefore, a Partnership firm does not have a separate legal existence.
Is it compulsory for partnership firms to file income tax returns?
Indeed it is mandatory for such a firm to file the income tax returns irrespective of the profit or losses incurred.
Can a person transfer to a partnership firm?
In order to transfer the ownership interest in a partnership firm, consent from each partner must be taken into consideration.
What is a Partnership deed? Is it necessary?
The Partnership deed outlines the terms and conditions of the Partnership and is a crucial document as it regulates the rights and duties of each partner.
How can I transfer to my partnership firm?
A Partner cannot transfer their interest in the Partnership Firm without the consent of all other partners.
Is audit required for a Partnership?
It is not mandatory for Partnerships to prepare audited financial statements every year, but a tax audit may be required based on turnover and other criteria.
Can I convert my Partnership firm into a Company/ LLP?
Yes, a Partnership firm can be converted into a Company or LLP, but the process is complicated and time-consuming. It is advisable to consider starting an LLP or Company instead.
How to open a bank account for a Partnership firm?
To open a bank account for a Partnership firm a registered Partnership deed along with an identity proof and address proof of the Partner is to be provided.