General Partnership

A partnership is similar to a sole proprietorship, except that two or more parties are involved. The parties carry on as co-owners of the business for profit.   In a business partnership, the parties that join forces can be individuals, corporations, trusts, other partnerships, or a combination of all of the above.   Each partner is responsible for all the debts of the business.  Any act by any partner binds the business, unless that person had no authority and the third party knew that person had no authority.

A general partnership is formed by an agreement entered into by each partner. A general partnership is not required to file organization papers with the Pennsylvania Department of State, however if it operates using a fictitious name, the general partnership may be required to register the fictitious name. 

A Fictitious Name Application can be completed online through the Online Business Registration Interview (OBRI).  

 Click here to proceed to the OBRI.

Click here to print an Application for Registration of Fictitious Name, form DSCB 54:311 Rev 90, that can be mailed to the Department of State.

The description above is for informational purposes only, and is not intended as legal advice.  If you are unsure whether a corporation is the correct business form for you, seek legal advice.