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PARTNERSHIPS
...Two Heads Are Not Always Better Than
One!
I am sure you
have heard the expression "two heads are better than one." In the case of
Partnerships, that is not true!
A Partnership is basically “an association of two
or more persons to carry on as co-owners a business for profit.” That’s its
literal translation. Basically, it’s just two people getting together and
deciding to run a business together. Each partner brings his/her own
unique talents, resources, money, etc. into the partnership to be used for the
common good.
It is also considered a pass
through entity, much like an LLC or S Corporation. In other words, the
Partnership itself pays no income tax. The partners pay income tax on the
income received from the partnership (if any). A partnership can also
exist if the parties conduct leads others to believe a partnership exists.
A Partnership is much like a
Sole Proprietorship, but only with two or more individuals and 10 times
the amount of liability risk. You do not need any special documentation.
You don’t need to file paperwork with the state. However, you may have to
file with the county as far as a Fictitious Business Name is concerned.
Much like a Sole
Proprietorship, you also do not receive any tax advantages by running your
business as a partnership. You still pay the same amount of self-employment tax
as you would if you were a Sole Proprietor.
One major difference between a
Sole Proprietor and a Partnership is the Limited Liability risk.
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Each General Partner can
Legally Bind the Partnership by his or her actions. Each can go out and get
a loan in name if the partnership
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Each Partner Fully Liable
for all business activities of Partnership. It’s the responsibility of all
partners to pay of this loan.
Pop Quiz:
What would happen if one partner, without knowledge of the other, gets a
multimillion dollar business loan in the name of the Partnership and runs off to
Jamaica?
Answer:
This person in Jamaica – you can’t even reach him. Now, in the eyes of the law,
there is what is called “joint and several liability.” Both of you are liable
for this loan. And the great thing is that if your partner can’t pay back the
loan or in this case, ran off to Jamaica, you’re stuck with the entire tab.
And if you have a home or bank account, the judgment creditor can attach liens
on your property and withdraw money out of your bank accounts if they have a
court judgment in place.
In some respect, Partnerships
are like marriages - you have to completely trust the person you are getting
involved with. However, much like marriages, divorce is prevalent.
Why not protect yourself by forming that corporation or LLC?
We invite you to discuss your business
with us. We can help protect you and your family! Call now for
a free consultation. You may reach our office at (310)205-5529.
Remember...Failing to
Plan is Planning to Fail!







LAW OFFICES OF ALON DARVISH
9454 Wilshire Boulevard, Penthouse
Beverly Hills, CA 90212
Tel: (310)205-5529
SERVING LOS ANGELES COUNTY
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