It might seem simple to form a partnership if you start a business with one or more partners. It is a business structure that allows at least one person ownership of the company. You can partner with someone to start a business without having to register for a company.
Although forming a partnership may seem like a good idea, it is not the only option. Before you join a partnership, it is important to be aware of the advantages and disadvantages of each type of partnership business structure. Remember Apart from all these, you need a proper Business Startup Checklist for the ultimate success.
What is the Partnership in Business?
Partnership businesses are a type of business that has over one owner. Multiple people can own and manage the business. Each owner shares in the profits and losses and is liable for all consequences. Partners are the owners.
Interesting Features of Partnership
The essential and interesting features and characteristics of a partnership are:
- Agreement: it formed a partnership when two or more people agree to it.
- Profit-sharing: The partners should share the profits of the business.
- Legal business: A partnership must be able to operate a business.
- Membership: A partnership must comprise at least two people. The maximum number of members is 20, and members for the banking industry are 10.
- Unlimited liability: each partner has unlimited liability, both joint and multiple.
- Relationship between principal and agent: Each partner is an agent for the firm. He may act for the firm. Also, he is responsible both for his actions and those of other partners.
- Collective management: The partners and the firm are one. All the partners are accountable individually and collectively when a contract is signed in the firm’s name.
- Non-transferability: Partners cannot transfer their shares to other partners without consent.
What are the Advantages and Disadvantages of a Partnership Business?
Each business structure has advantages and disadvantages. You must know them before deciding how you will structure your business.
In this article, you’ll learn the partnership business advantages and disadvantages, so you’ll know if it’s right for you.
Advantages of a Partnership
Here are some of the partnership business advantages:
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You have an Extra Set of Hands
Many business owners have multiple jobs and must manage many tasks. It often surrounds owners with constant hustle, late nights, and burning problems.
A business partner is a person or group of people who can assist you in all aspects of your business. You can assign tasks to the partners, which will make it easier for you to complete them faster. Also, it allows you to do extra works instead of working alone.
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You Benefit from Additional Knowledge
Your business can benefit from the expertise and knowledge of partners. While you may know about the product or service your business offers, you might not know to manage it. Partner can be a skilled business manager. You might find that your partner has the previous experience that could help you guide your business on the right path.
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You have Less Financial Burden
It’s costly to start a business. There are likely to be high overhead costs for inventory, equipment, and retail space.
Partnering with a partner can help you reduce your financial burden. Your partner can share the cost instead of you paying for everything. The partner’s financial contributions might allow the business to afford more items upfront. You might also avoid significant amounts of debt by starting your own business.
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There is Less Paperwork
It’s easy to start a partnership. You don’t need to submit any special paperwork to the federal government. Most likely, you only have minimal paperwork in your area.
Each partner must sign a partnership contract. It defines the roles and responsibilities for each partner to make decisions. It will also detail how profits and losses will be divided. This agreement is easier than other paperwork.
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There are Fewer Tax Forms
Partnerships don’t have to pay additional taxes for business entities. It means that you don’t need to complete and file business tax forms.
Instead, taxes are passed on to business owners. It will include your share of the profits and losses in your tax return. Additional taxes are your responsibility.
Disadvantages of A Partnership
You know what? Everyone is looking best business opportunities every single day. There are many ways it can be helpful, just like every business structure. It might not be the best decision in all situations. It means that there are limitations to the partnership.
Here are some of the demerits of partnership business:
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You can’t Decide on your Own
When you are in a partnership, you cannot act alone. Work with your partner to make or run decisions.
All partners are responsible if your partner acts alone and makes reckless decisions. It is not possible to hold the reckless partner solely responsible. It is one of the major demerits of a partnership business.
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You’ll have Disagreements
Conflict can arise when people are brought together at work. It may be disagreements between you and your business partner. Sometimes, you might tire of working together. You can’t dissolve the partnership if this happens.
It is best if you have a plan for exiting the partnership. It’s time to share profits, losses, and responsibilities with any remaining partners. You will also need to change the structure of your business.
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Split Profits
You can make all the money from a business if you own it. However, if you are part of a partnership, you must share in the profits. Your share of the profits may vary depending on how many people you have.
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You aren’t Separate from the Business
The partnership is one legal entity that you share with the other partners. Each partner is financially and legally responsible for the company. You will not be treated separately if your company is facing legal problems. If your company cannot repay debts, creditors can pursue your money.
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You’re Taxed Individually
Although being taxed separately is a benefit, it can also be a disadvantage. The rates of business taxes are generally lower than those of individual taxes. Because it passed the taxes on to you and your partners, you might pay more collectively than if you were paying business taxes. It can be a serious limitation of partnership.
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Limitations of partnership
There are also some limitations of partnership, like:
- Limited capital
- Unlimited liability
- No public confidence
- Non-transferability of interest
- Uncertainty of duration
- Conflicts among partners
- Risk of implied authority
- Lack of harmony
- Difficulty in withdrawing investment
You can also read: Virtualization Risks and Benefits with Pros and Cons
Final Words
Partnering with others is one of the most convenient ways to do business. Your business will still have liabilities and losses. You can consult a business lawyer to help you determine if forming a partnership is the right choice. It’s okay if you take the time to consider all the partnership business advantages and disadvantages to your financial situation and your mental outlook.
You can compare a business partnership to a marriage. It is like a long-lasting marriage. You need to find the right person and someone you can trust. Then, enjoy being together within four walls.
