Establishing secure connection…Loading editor…Preparing document…

General Partnership Agreement

This template is fully customizable. Edit the text, fill out the fields, and send it for signature. Give it a try!

General Partnership Agreement with Managing Partners and Officers

Agreement made the day of of , 20, between

, of referred to herein as Partner One,

, of referred to herein as Partner Two, and

, of referred to herein as Partner Three, said Partner One, Partner Two, and Partner Three being jointly called the Partners;

In consideration of the mutual covenants contained in this Agreement, the parties agree as follows:

I. Basic Structure.

A. Formation. The parties form a general partnership pursuant to the laws of .

B. Name. The business of the Partnership shall be conducted under the name of .

C. Place of Business. The principal office and place of business of the Partnership shall be located at , or such other place as the Managing Partners may from time to time designate.

D. Term. The Partnership shall commence on and shall continue for years, unless earlier terminated in the following manner:

1. By the completion of the purpose intended;

2. Pursuant to this Agreement;

3. By applicable law; or

4. By death, insanity, bankruptcy, retirement, withdrawal, resignation, expulsion, or disability of all of the then Partners.

E. Purpose. The purpose for which the Partnership is organized is .

F. Investment Representations of Partners. Each Partner represents and warrants that he or she is acquiring his or her interest in the Partnership for his or her own account, for investment, and not with a view to the sale or distribution of the same.

G. Tax Matters Partner. The Partners agree that Partner One shall serve as the Tax Matters Partner. Nothing in this Agreement shall be construed to restrict the Partnership from engaging accountants or other professionals to assist the Tax Matters Partner in discharging his or her duties under this Agreement.

II. Economic and Tax Arrangements.

A. Initial Contributions of Partners. Each Partner has contributed to the initial capital of the Partnership property in the amount and form indicated on Exhibit A attached to and made a part of this Agreement.

B. Partners' Percentage Share of Capital. The Initial Percentage Share of Capital of each Partner shall be as follows: .

C. Interest. No interest shall be paid on any contribution to the capital of the Partnership.

D. Return of Capital Contributions. No Partner shall have the right to demand the return of his or her capital contributions except as provided in this Agreement.

E. Rights of Priority. The individual Partners shall have no right to any priority over each other as to the return of capital contributions except as provided in this Agreement.

F. Additional Capital Contributions. If at any time during the existence of the Partnership it shall become necessary to increase the capital with which the Partnership is doing business, then (upon the vote of the Managing Partners) each party to this Agreement shall contribute to the capital of this Partnership, within days after notice of written request for the same, an amount according to his or her then Percentage Share of Capital as called for by the Managing Partners.

G. Maintenance of Capital Accounts.

1. The Managing Partners shall allocate, for purposes of determining the relative economic relationship among the Partners, the economic contributions to, distributions from, income of and losses of the Partnership in accordance with the Partners' Percentage Share of Capital.

2. The Managing Partners shall allocate, for tax purposes, the contributions to, distributions from, income, losses, deductions and credits of the Partnership in accordance with the Partners' Percentage Share of Capital.

H. Distributions. Each of the Partners may withdraw from the Partnership, for his or her own use, a sum not to exceed $ per month. If, at the close of each fiscal year, it is found that any Partner's share withdrawn by him or her is in excess of his or her distributive share for that fiscal year, he or she shall immediately refund the difference within a period not exceeding days from the time of such determination. Distributions to the Partners of net operating profits of the Partnership, as defined below, shall be made at least monthly. Such distributions shall be made to the Partners simultaneously. For the purpose of this Agreement, net operating profit for any accounting period shall mean the gross receipts of the Partnership for such period, less the sum of all cash expenses of operation of the Partnership, and such sums as may be necessary to establish a reserve for operating expenses. In determining net operating profit, deductions for depreciation, amortization, or other similar charges not requiring actual current expenditures of cash shall not be taken into account. In any case, % of Partnership income shall be left in the Partnership as a further contribution of capital by each Partner.

I. Rights of the Partners upon Default of a Partner. Upon the refusal of any Partner to make a capital contribution as required in this Agreement:

1. The Managing Partners shall notify, in writing, the remaining Partners of any default no later than days following the date upon which the defaulted Partner's payment was originally due.

2. Any Partner, other than the defaulted Partner may, within days after the default, purchase the Partnership interest of the defaulted Partner by notifying the Managing Partners and by making payment:

a. To the defaulted Partner, an amount equal to % of such defaulted Partner's then capital, less the expenses incurred in the sale; and

b. To the Partnership, the amount of the capital contribution required upon which the defaulting Partner defaulted.

3. Should more than one Partner notify the Managing Partners of an intention to purchase the Partnership interest of the defaulting Partner, then each such Partner desiring to purchase the defaulted Partner's interest may purchase that portion according to such purchasing Partner's then percentage share of capital.

4. If no Partner desires to purchase the Partnership interest of the defaulted Partner, the Managing Partners shall arrange for a private sale of such interest. The defaulted Partner shall receive from the proceeds of the sale the sale amount (but in any case not an amount which exceeds the book value of his or her capital account on the date of sale of his or her interest) less any expenses incurred by the Partnership in connection with the sale. The Partnership shall receive the remainder of the proceeds of the sale, if any.

J. Compliance with Internal Revenue Code Section 704. Nothing in this Agreement to the contrary withstanding, the rules of Internal Revenue Code Section 704(b) and of Regulation Section 1.704-1 shall be followed in determining the partner's capital accounts.

III. Management.

A. Managing Partners

1. The Managing Partners shall be .

2. The Tax Matters Partner shall be Partner One.

B. Voting. All Managing Partners shall have the right to vote as to the management and conduct of the business of the Partnership according to their then percentage share of capital. Except as otherwise set forth in this Agreement, a majority of such capital shall control.

C. Rights, Powers and Restrictions of Payments. No Partner without the consent of all the other partners shall:

1. Do any act in contravention of this Agreement;

2. Do any act which would make it impossible to carry on the ordinary business of the Partnership;

3. Confess judgment against the Partnership; or

4. Possess Partnership property, or assign his or her interest or rights in specific Partnership property, for other than a Partnership purpose.

D. Powers. The Managing Partners shall have the following authority:

1. To purchase, invest in, reinvest in, or otherwise acquire, and to retain, whether originally a part of the Partnership or subsequently acquired, any and all stocks, bonds, notes, or other securities, or any variety of real or personal property, including stocks or interests in investment trusts and common trust funds operated and managed by a corporate trustee, as he or she may deem advisable.

2. To obtain, sell and convey, mortgage, encumber, lease, exchange, pledge, partition, plat, subdivide, improve, repair, surrender, abandon or otherwise deal with or dispose of any and all property of any character and wherever situated forming a part of this Partnership, at such time or times and in such manner and upon such terms as, in the absolute and uncontrolled discretion of the Managing Partners may be deemed expedient and proper; to give options for the same; to execute deeds, transfers, leases, pledges, mortgages, and other instruments of any kind. Any leases and contracts may extend beyond the term of the Partnership.

3. To borrow money upon terms acceptable from any person or corporation, and to pledge or mortgage any property as security for the same and to renew any indebtedness incurred by the Managing Partners.

4. To lend moneys to any person for any purpose related to the Partnership's operations and investments upon any terms and conditions, provided that the same shall:

a. As to loans secured by first liens on real estate and fixtures, not be (i) for an amount in excess of % of fair market value; (ii) based on a rate less than the then Applicable Federal Rate; or (iii) for a period of longer than years.

b. As to loans secured by tangible personal property and accounts receivable less than days overdue, not be (i) for an amount in excess of % of fair market value; (ii) based on a rate less than the then Applicable Federal Rate; or (iii) for a period of longer than years.

c. As to other loans, not be (i) for an amount in excess of % of fair market value; (ii) based on a rate less than the then Applicable Federal Rate; or (iii) for a period of longer than years.

5. To open and to close checking or savings accounts, in banks or similar financial institutions, or safety deposit boxes in the name of a Managing Partner or in the name of a nominee, with or without indication of any fiduciary capacity; to deposit cash in and withdraw cash from such accounts or boxes, with or without indication of any fiduciary capacity; to hold such accounts and securities in bearer form, or in the name of a Managing Partner or in the name of a nominee with or without indication of any fiduciary capacity.

6. To give general or special proxies or powers of attorney for voting or acting in respect of shares or securities, which may be discretionary and with power of substitution; to deposit shares or securities with, or transfer them to, protective committees or similar bodies; and to join in any reorganization and to pay assessments or subscriptions called for in connection with shares or securities held by the Partnership.

7. To adjust, arbitrate, compromise, sue or defend, abandon or otherwise deal with and settle any and all claims in favor of or against the Partnership as the Managing Partners shall deem proper.

8. To employ investment counsel, brokers, accountants, attorneys, and any other agents to act in his or her behalf; and generally to do any act or thing and execute all instruments necessary, incidental or convenient to the proper administration of the Partnership property.

9. To make payments, division, or distribution of the Partnership property wholly or partly in kind.

10. To make employment contracts and pay pensions and establish pension and other incentive plans for any or all of its employees; provided, that no contract shall be made in favor of the Partners without the consent of % of the Partners.

E. Liability. No Partner shall incur any liability for any mistakes or errors in judgment made in good faith and in the exercise of due care in connection with the Partnership business, and no Partner shall be deemed to have violated any of the provisions of this Partnership Agreement for any such mistakes or errors in judgment.

F. Indemnification of Managing Partners and Tax Matters Partner. The Managing Partners and Tax Matters Partner, when acting in their capacity as such, shall be entitled to indemnity from the Partnership for any act performed by them within the scope of the authority conferred on them by this Agreement, except for acts of malfeasance or gross negligence or for damages arising from any misrepresentations; provided, however, that any indemnity under this Section shall be provided out of and to the extent of Partnership assets only, and no Partner shall have any personal liability with regard to the indemnity.

G. Extent of Services. The Managing Partners shall devote their entire time, attention, and energies to the business of the Partnership, and shall not during the term of this Agreement be engaged in any other business activity whether or not such business activity is pursued for gain, profit, or other pecuniary advantage, without the prior written consent of the Partner first obtained; but this shall not be construed as preventing the Managing Partners from investing, when such investment will not interfere with the Managing Partners full time employment by the Partnership.

H. Removal.

1. Some or all of the Managing Partners may be removed as Managing Partners by the Partners, but only if: ; provided, however, that a -day notice must be given to the Managing Partners spelling out to the Managing Partners those acts which have caused such removal. The moving Partner shall, in writing, submit to all of the Partners the basis upon which he or she seeks removal of the Managing Partner and the name of another person or corporation as the proposed successor Managing Partner of the Partnership. If, within days after the submission of the allegation and the proposal of substitution to all of the Partners, the Partners owning an aggregate of at least of the total capital approve such removal and proposed Partner substitution in writing, the person so proposed shall be admitted as a Managing Partner.

2. The Tax Matters Partner may be removed as Tax Matters Partner by the Partners, but only if ; provided, however, that a -day notice must be given to the Tax Matters Partner spelling out to the Tax Matters Partner those acts which have caused such removal. The moving Partner shall, in writing, submit to all of the Partners the basis upon which he or she seeks removal of the Tax Matters Partner and the name of another person as the Tax Matters Partner. If, within days after the submission of the allegation and the proposal of substitution to all of the Partners, the Partners owning an aggregate of at least of the total approve such removal and proposed Partner substitution in writing, the person so proposed shall be admitted as the Tax Matters Partner.

IV. Meetings of Partners.

A. Annual Meetings of Partners. Annual meetings of Partners, if actually held, shall be held on such date and time as shall be designated from time to time by the Partners and stated in the notice of the meeting, at which they shall transact such other business as may properly be brought before the meeting. Written notice of the annual meeting stating the place, date and hour of the meeting shall be given to each Partner entitled to vote at such meeting not less than nor more than days before the date of the meeting.

B. Special Meetings. Special meetings of Partners, for any purpose or purposes, may be held by waiver of notice and consent or may be called by a Managing Partner and shall be called by a Managing Partner at the request in writing of a Partner owning not less than % of the entire capital or profit interest of the Partnership. Such request shall state the purpose or purposes of the proposed meeting. Written notice of a special meeting stating the place, date and hour of the meeting and the purpose or purposes for which the meeting is called, shall be given not less than nor more than days before the date of the meeting, to each Partner entitled to vote at such meeting. Business transacted at any special meeting of Partners shall be limited to the purposes stated in the notice unless all of the Partners agree otherwise.

C. Voting. Whenever the vote of Partners at a meeting of the Partners is required or permitted to be taken for or in connection with any action, a majority shall control and the meeting and vote of Partners may be dispensed with if all of the Partners who would have been entitled to vote upon the action if such meeting were held shall consent in writing to such action taken.

V. Managing Partners. Managing Partner vacancies shall be filled by a vote of the Partners at a special meeting called for such purpose.

A. Vacancies. Partners at a special meeting called for such purpose.

B. Voting. A Managing Partner who is either present at a meeting of the Managing Partners at which action on any matter is taken, or who is absent but has notice of such action by certified mail, shall be presumed to have assented to the action taken unless his or her dissent shall be entered in the minutes of the meeting or unless he or she shall file his or her written dissent to such action with the person acting as the secretary of the meeting before the adjournment of the meeting or shall forward such dissent by certified mail to the other Managing Partners immediately after the adjournment of the meeting or within days after written notification of such action by certified mail. The objection shall be deemed made when mailed by certified mail. Such right to dissent shall not apply to a Managing Partner who voted in favor of such action.

C. Managing Partner Meetings. The Managing Partners may hold meetings, both regular and special, either within or without .

D. Officers.

1. Each year the Managing Partners shall elect from their number a president, a secretary and a treasurer. The term of office of all officers shall be one year or until their respective successors are chosen, but any officer may be removed from office, with or without cause.

2. The president shall execute all authorized conveyances, contracts, or other obligations in the name of the Partnership except where the signing and execution shall be delegated by the Managing Partners to some other officer or agent. He or she shall preside at all meetings of the Partners and Managing Partners.

3. The secretary shall attend all meetings of the Partnership and record all votes and the minutes of all proceedings in a book to be kept for that purpose and shall perform like duties for the standing committees when required. He or she shall give, or cause to be given, notice of all meetings of the Partners and Managing Partners. He or she shall execute with the president all authorized conveyances, contracts or other obligations in the name of the Partnership except as otherwise directed by the Managing Partners. The secretary shall keep a register of the post office address of each Partner. The address shall be furnished to the secretary by such Partner and the responsibility for keeping the address current shall be upon the Partner.

4. The treasurer shall have custody of and keep account of all money, funds and property of the Partnership unless otherwise determined by the Managing Partners, and he or she shall render such accounts and present such statements to the Managing Partners and president as may be required of him or her. He or she shall deposit funds of the Partners which may come into his or her hands in such bank or banks as the Managing Partners may designate. He or she shall keep his or her bank accounts in the name of the Partnership and shall exhibit his or her books and accounts at all reasonable times to any Managing Partner. If required by the Managing Partners, he or she shall give the Partnership a bond in such sum and with such surety or sureties as shall be satisfactory to the Managing Partners for the faithful performance of the duties of his or her office and for the restoration to the Partnership, in case of his or her death, resignation or removal from office, of all books, papers, vouchers, money and other property of whatever kind in his or her possession or under his or her control belonging to the Partnership.

E. Right to Admit Partners. There shall be no right to admit additional Partners, except by unanimous consent of all of the Partners.

F. Removal of Managing Partners. Some or all of the Managing Partners may be removed as Managing Partners by the Partners if: ; provided, however, that a -days' notice must be given to the Managing Partners spelling out to the Managing Partners those acts necessarily constituting violation of at which time the Managing Partner may, within the notice period, take the necessary steps to cure any violation or default and remain as Managing Partner.

G. Tax Matters Partner.

1. Name. The Tax Matters Partner shall be , who shall be succeeded upon death or unwillingness or inability to act as shall be determined by the Managing Partners.

2. Duties. The Tax Matters Partner shall have the following rights and duties:

a. To provide to the Internal Revenue Service any or all information which is within the knowledge of the Tax Matters Partner as to the organization, operations or liquidation of the Partnership.

b. To adjust, arbitrate, negotiate, compromise, sue or defend, abandon or otherwise deal with and settle any and all claims in favor of or against the Partners and the Partnership as the Tax Matters Partner shall deem proper which shall directly relate to the organization, operations and/or liquidation of the Partnership.

c. To do all other things which may be granted to the Tax Matters Partner by Internal Revenue Code Sections 6221 through 6232, as they may be now or are in the future amended or supplemented.

VI. Right to Assign Partnership Interest

A. Partner's Right of Assignment of Profits and Losses. Except as provided in this Agreement, the Partnership interest shall not be assigned.

B. Transfers. The Partners shall not sell, assign, pledge or otherwise transfer or encumber in any manner or by any means whatever, and share in all or any part of the interests of the Partnership now owned or later acquired by them without having first obtained the consent of or offered it to the other Partners and to the Partnership in accordance with the terms and conditions of this Agreement.

C. Spouses Bound by Agreement. The following spouses shall be obligated as follows: . Upon a triggering event, the Partner's respective spouse shall be obligated to give to the Partnership or the Partners, as the case may be, an option (whether or not the Partner is required to be bought out) to purchase the capital interest of the relevant spouse on the same terms and conditions as are set forth in this Agreement, given the triggering event in question. For these purposes, insurance paid in connection with this Agreement shall not be used for a purchase pursuant to this Section or taken into account in determining the payment terms to be used in buying out the spouse.

D. Joint Ownership. It is understood by the parties that the interest owned by some of the Partners is owned jointly by the Partner and his or her spouse. The parties agree that the spouses of the respective Partners shall in all respects be bound by this Agreement and that if a Partner is required to sell his or her interest pursuant to this Agreement, the respective spouse must comply with this Agreement and shall execute any and all documents consequently required. It is further understood that the provisions of this Agreement which trigger an option or obligation to sell an interest of the Partnership refer only to events relating to the Partners and will have no force or effect upon events relating to their respective spouses.

E. Offer to Partner.

1. Bona Fide Offer. If any Partner is in receipt of a bona fide offer to purchase his or her interest, and shall desire to sell, assign, transfer or otherwise dispose of his or her interest without the prior written consent of the other Partners, he or she shall serve notice to such effect upon the other Partners and the Partnership by registered or certified mail, return receipt requested, and the notice shall indicate the name and address of the person desiring to purchase the same and the price and terms of payment upon which the sale is proposed. The notice shall also imply an offer to sell such interest to the other Partners and to the Partnership upon the same payment terms as the proposed sale, or upon the following price and terms.

2. Price. The purchase price paid for such interest shall be as set forth in Paragraph K, below.

3. Terms. The purchase price of the interest of a Partner shall be paid as set forth in Paragraph L, below.

4. Mechanics. Upon such event, the Partnership shall have the rights and duties and the Partners shall have the rights and duties to purchase the interests of the relevant Partners using the mechanics set forth in Paragraph M, below.

F. Partner Desires to Sell.

1. Notice of Desire to Sell. If any Partner, not in receipt of a bona fide offer, shall desire to dispose of his or her interest, dissolve, make an assignment for the benefit of creditors, be adjudicated bankrupt or legally incapacitated, then at least days prior to the date he or she is to dispose of his or her interest, he or she shall serve notice upon the other Partners and upon the Partnership by registered or certified mail, return receipt requested. The notice must contain an offer to sell such interest to the other Partners and to the Partnership upon the following price and terms.

2. Price. The purchase price paid for such interest shall be as set forth in Paragraph K, below.

3. Terms. The purchase price of the interest of a Partner shall be paid as set forth in Paragraph L, below.

4. Mechanics. Upon such event, the Partnership shall have the rights and duties and the Partners shall have the rights and duties to purchase the interests of the relevant Partners using the mechanics set forth in Paragraph M, below.

G. Disability.

1. If any Partner is, by reason of illness, injury or disability, unable to carry on his or her normal duties in the conduct of the Partnership business, then such inactive Partner shall be deemed permanently disabled and shall be deemed to have offered his or her capital interest as follows. Such disability shall be deemed to have occurred upon the following event: .

2. Price. The purchase price paid for such interest shall be as set forth in Paragraph K, below.

3. Terms. The purchase price of the interest of a Partner shall be paid as set forth in Paragraph L, below.

4. Mechanics. Upon such event, the Partnership shall have the rights and duties and the Partners shall have the rights and duties to purchase the interests of the relevant Partners using the mechanics set forth in Paragraph M, below.

H. Death.

1. Sale. Upon the death of any Partner, the entire interest of such deceased Partner, and the estate of the decedent in the Partnership, shall be offered for sale as follows.

2. Life Insurance.

a. Insured Partners. Since the Partnership has arranged to provide funds needed to acquire the interest of any of the Partners through life insurance policies on their respective lives, it is agreed that the Partnership shall secure life insurance at its own expense, on the lives of the Partners and in the amounts set forth in the attached Exhibit A. It is understood that the policies shall represent a source of funds necessary to cover, in the event of death, the purchase price of the interest respectively owned by each Partner, as provided in this Section. The owner shall pay all premiums due on the policies and shall be the sole owner of the policies. Any party shall have the right to insure at any time the life of a Partner, or anyone who may become, or be deemed to be, a party to this Agreement, for an amount or amounts in excess of the amount or amounts needed to fully purchase his or her respective interest.

b. Uninsured Partners. is not being insured because it is understood that is uninsurable. If should die, the cash value of the policies, if any, on the lives of the other Partners shall be available as a source of liquidity toward the purchase of the capital interest of .

c. Modification of Insurance. The owner shall only modify or impair the rights or values under such policies with the mutual consent of the parties to this Agreement.

d. Applicable Insurance. Only insurance policies listed in this Agreement, or written amendments or written supplements to this Agreement, shall be included as insurance held pursuant to this Agreement.

3. Price. The redemption or purchase price paid for such interest shall be as set forth in Paragraph K, below.

4. Terms. The purchase price of the interest of a Partner shall be paid as set forth in Paragraph L, below.

5. Mechanics. Upon such event, the Partnership shall have the rights and duties and the Partners shall have the rights and duties to purchase the interests of the relevant Partners using the mechanics set forth in Paragraph M, below.

I. Retirement or Withdrawal before Normal Retirement.

1. If any Partner's employment with the Partnership voluntarily or involuntarily is terminated before age , then such event shall constitute an implied offer to sell his or her interest under the following price and terms.

2. Price. The purchase price paid for such capital interest shall be as set forth in Paragraph K, below.

3. Terms. The purchase price of the interest of a Partner shall be paid as set forth in Paragraph L, below.

4. Mechanics. Upon such event, the Partnership shall have the rights and duties and the Partners shall have the rights and duties to purchase the relevant Partner's interest using the mechanics set forth in Paragraph M, below.

5. Expulsion. If in the opinion of a majority in interest of the Partners, any Partner shall be guilty of misconduct of such character as to render it impracticable for the then Partners to carry on the Partnership business together, the offending Partner may be expelled from the Partnership.

J. Retirement or Withdrawal after Age .

1. If any Partner voluntarily or involuntarily terminates employment with the Partnership after age , such event shall constitute an implied offer to sell his or her interest under the following price and terms.

2. Price. The purchase price paid for such interest shall be as set forth in Paragraph K, below.

3. Terms. The purchase price of the interest of a Partner shall be paid as set forth in Paragraph L, below.

4. Mechanics. Upon such event, the Partnership shall have the rights and duties and the Partners shall have the rights and duties to purchase the interest of the relevant Partners as set forth in paragraph M, below.

K. Price.

1. The purchase price paid for an interest pursuant to the terms of this Agreement shall be calculated as follows:

a. The Partner's Partnership Value shall be determined by multiplying the Partner's Percentage Share of capital by the total Partnership Value determined by the process set forth below.

b. From such Partnership Value shall be subtracted any adjustments to be made pursuant to this Partnership Agreement to such Partner's Capital Account upon the liquidation of the Partnership or upon the sale or redemption of a Partnership interest for the fiscal year of the Partnership in question.

2. Book Value. The book value of the Partnership shall be computed in accordance with generally accepted accounting practices as consistently used by the Partnership in preparation of its financial statements, as of the close of business on the last day of the month preceding the month in which the triggering event occurs, to reflect the fair market value of all assets of the Partnership, accounts receivable and current liabilities not reflected on the books of the Partnership, other than goodwill, if any.

3. Tax Reserve. The above sum shall be reduced by a reserve equal in amount to % of the Partnership's accountant's reasonable estimate of the federal and state income taxes which will be payable by the purchaser as a result of the fact that the purchaser will not receive a deduction for the purchase of the selling Partner's interest.

4. Loan Payment. In addition to such purchase price, there shall be a repayment by the Partnership of the then outstanding balance of any sum then loaned to the Partnership by the withdrawing Partner (plus accrued interest, if any) whether or not the sums shall be then due and owing.

5. Unbooked Work. Such purchase price shall take into account the Partner's pro rata share of profit to be derived from unbilled and unbooked work, whether or not in process (based on the results of fiscal year ).

6. Allocation of Assets to be Distributed upon a Triggering Event under Section 736 of the Internal Revenue Code. Upon a triggering event, the selling Partner shall receive the following sums which shall be divided by his or her share of Partnership capital:

• For his or her Partnership assets:

• For Partnership goodwill:

• For his or her share of Partnership income:

• As a payment in the form of mutual insurance (i.e., a guaranteed payment not for assets):

L. Terms.

1. The purchase price of the capital interest of a Partner shall be paid in the following manner:

a. Years Certain. In the event of a purchase of the interest of a Partner, a down payment of % of the purchase price shall be made in the year of sale. The balance of the purchase price shall be paid in equal monthly payments on the unpaid balance over years. Interest shall commence days after the Partnership or the remaining Partners are required to buy the interest of the selling Partner.

b. Payment Amount Certain. In the event of a purchase of the interest of a Partner, a down payment of % of the purchase price shall be made in the year of sale. The balance of the purchase price shall be paid in equal monthly installments of $ per month, interest on the unpaid balance at the rate of % per annum. Interest shall commence days after the Partnership or the remaining Partners are required to buy the interest of the selling Partner.

2. Substantial Transfer. Provided, however, that if the purchasing Partner shall transfer or cause to be transferred substantially all of the assets of the Partnership or the interest owned by him or her or if he or she shall take a salary such as shall jeopardize the payment of the sums owed under this Agreement then the remainder of the purchase price shall become fully due and payable.

M. Mechanics.

1. Mandatory Purchase. Offers made to the Partnership and Partners upon shall be subject to the following mechanics: the selling Partner or his or her representative shall give notice of such event, and for a period of days after the mailing of such notice, the Partnership shall have the right to notify the selling Partner of its exercise of the option to purchase the interest so offered even in such cases where the Partnership shall not be obligated to act and shall notify the party that it will purchase in the event of death. If the Partnership has the option and does not elect to redeem the full amount of the interest, then the other Partners shall be required to purchase all of the interest so offered in proportion to their respective capital interests, unless they otherwise agree to a different percentage, within days after the termination of the Partnership's option to buy. In all cases, the closing shall take place within days after the date on which the Partnership or the other Partners become obligated to purchase the interest of the selling Partner at .

2. Optional Purchase. Offers made to the Partnership and Partners in the event of shall be subject to the following mechanics: the selling Partner or his or her representative shall give notice of such event and for a period of days after the mailing of such notice, the Partnership shall have the right to notify the selling Partner of its exercise of the option to redeem the interest so offered. If the Partnership does not elect to redeem the full amount of the interest offered, the other Partners shall have the option to purchase all (but not part) of the interest so offered in proportion to their respective capital interests, unless they refuse to exercise their option or otherwise agree to a different percentage, within days after the termination of the Partnership's option to buy. If none of the other Partners or the Partnership shall exercise the option to purchase as provided in this Section, the offering Partner shall be free to dispose of his or her interest subject to the following restrictions:

a. Effect on Transferor. The transferor shall continue to be bound by the terms and provisions of this Agreement to the extent to which triggering events which relate to the transferor shall trigger the offer or sale of the interest.

b. Effect on Transferee. The transferee shall be bound by the terms and provisions of this Agreement to the extent to which triggering events which relate to the transferee shall trigger the offer or sale of the interest. For purposes of determining who shall be entitled to purchase or is bound to purchase the interest offered or to be sold, the transferee shall be so entitled or bound. In all cases, the closing shall take place days from the date on which the Partnership or the other Partners become obligated to purchase the interest of the selling Partner at .

N. Substitution of Additional Partners. Notwithstanding anything in this Agreement to the contrary, the assignee (including, but not limited to, any transferee or purchaser) of the whole or any part of the Partnership interest shall not be substituted as a Partner without prior written consent of the Managing Partners. In no event shall the consent of the Managing Partners be given unless such assignee, as a condition precedent to such consent, has:

1. Accepted and assumed, in a form satisfactory to the Managing Partners, all terms and provisions of this Agreement;

2. Provided a certified copy of a resolution of its board of directors approving the terms and provisions of this Agreement (if the assignee is a corporation);

3. Executed such other documents or instruments as may be required in order to effectuate its admission as a Partner; provided an opinion of counsel, in form and substance satisfactory to counsel for the Partnership, that neither the offering nor the assignment of the Partnership interest violates any provision of any federal or state securities law; and executed a statement that he or she is acquiring his or her interest in the Partnership for his or her own account for investment, and not with a view to sale or distribution;

4. Executed such other documents or instruments as the Managing Partners may reasonably require in order to effectuate the admission of such assignee as a Partner; and

5. Paid such reasonable expenses, which expenses are estimated to be $, as may be incurred in connection with such admission as a Partner.

O. Death, Dissolution, Withdrawal, Etc. The death, dissolution, withdrawal, assignment for the benefit of creditors, retirement, adjudication of bankruptcy or legal incapacity of a Partner shall not dissolve or terminate the Partnership. Upon any such event the financial interest of such Partner and all rights and obligations under this Agreement shall descend to and invest in the heirs, legatees or legal representatives of such Partner. Such heirs, legatees or legal representatives may be in accordance with the provisions of this Agreement.

P. Sale of More Than 50% in Any 12-Month Period. No assignment of any Partnership interest shall be effective if such assignment would result in there having occurred within a 12-month period a sale or exchange of 50% or more of the total interest in the Partnership capital and profits.

VII. Liquidation.

A. Dissolution. If the Partnership is dissolved for any reason, a full and general account of its assets, liabilities and transactions shall at once be taken. Such assets may be sold and turned into cash as soon as possible and all debts and other amounts due the Partnership collected. The proceeds then shall be applied as follows:

1. To discharge the debts and liabilities of the Partnership and the expenses of liquidation;

2. To pay each Partner or his or her legal representative any unpaid salary, drawing account, interest or profits to which he or she shall then be entitled and, in addition, to repay to any Partner his or her capital contributions in excess of his or her original capital contribution;

3. To divide the surplus, if any, among the Partners or their representatives as follows:

a. First (to the extent of each Partner's then capital account) in proportion to their then capital accounts;

b. Then according to each Partner's then Percentage Share of capital.

B. Special Allocations. Notwithstanding anything in this Agreement to the contrary, Internal Revenue Code Section 704 and Regulation Section 1.704, as amended, shall be followed upon liquidation of the Partnership.

C. Right to Demand Property. No Partner shall have the right to demand and receive property in kind for his or her distribution.

VIII. Miscellaneous Substantive Provision.

A. Fiscal Year; Books; Annual Financial Statements. The Partnership's fiscal year shall commence on of each year and end on of each year. Full and accurate books of account shall be kept at such place as the Managing Partners may from time to time designate, showing the condition of the business and finances of the Partnership; and each Partner shall have access to such books of account and shall be entitled to examine them at any time during ordinary business hours. At the end of each year, the Managing Partners shall cause the Partnership's accountant to prepare a balance sheet setting forth the financial position of the Partnership as of the end of that year and a statement of operations (income and expenses) for that year. A copy of the balance sheet and statement of operations shall be delivered to each Partner as soon as it is available. Each Partner shall be deemed to have waived all objections to any transaction or other facts about the operation of the Partnership disclosed in such balance sheet or statement of operations unless he or she shall have notified the Managing Partners in writing of his or her objections within days of the date on which such statement is mailed. The Partnership books shall be kept on the basis and in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles consistent with those employed for determining its income for federal income tax purposes. Upon the transfer of any existing interest in the Partnership, the Partnership shall terminate its tax year as of the day after such transfer.

B. Partnership's Agents. Pursuant to the Partnership's day to day activity the Managing Partners shall have the power to employ investment counsel, brokers, accountants, attorneys, and any other agents to act in the Partnership's behalf, generally to do any act or thing and execute all instruments necessary, incidental or convenient to the proper administration of the Partnership property; otherwise the employment shall only be made if agreed to by all the Partners.

C. Transfers to Living Trusts. For purposes of this Agreement, any Partner may transfer his or her interest to the Partner's living trust. Upon such transfer, legal title shall rest in such living trust but such interest shall be subject to the same events and circumstances as if the transferring Partner continued to own such interest. Further, the transferring Partner shall continue to exercise all rights and be liable for all duties imposed by this Agreement.

D. Checks. All checks or demands for money and notes of the Partnership shall be signed by the Managing Partners or such other person or persons as the Managing Partners may from time to time designate.

E. Conflicts of Interest. Partners may engage in or possess an interest in other business ventures of every kind and description for their own accounts. Neither the Partnership nor any of the Partners shall have any rights by virtue of this Agreement in such independent business ventures or to the income or profits derived from such businesses. All Partners are to devote their full employment time to the business and affairs of the Partnership.

F. Use of Name. The name “” shall belong to and may be used by the Partnership and shall not be sold or disposed of so long as the Partnership shall continue in existence. In the event of the death, retirement, or withdrawal of any of the Partners during the term of the Partnership, the deceased, retiring or withdrawing Partner shall have no interest in the firm name and shall have no right to receive any payment for the name. Upon dissolution or termination of the Partnership, the Partnership name [may be disposed of or shall become the property of ].

G. Use of Individual Name in Firm Name. agrees that will permit the Partnership to continue the use of name within the name of the firm; provided, however, the name is so used as not to make liable for or chargeable with any of the liabilities of the business to be conducted by the Partnership. The Partnership shall fully indemnify and hold harmless from any such liabilities, including any legal fees to defend the same.

IX. Other Miscellaneous Provisions.

A. Execution in Counterpart. This Partnership Agreement may be executed in any number of counterparts, each of which shall be taken to be an original. Valid execution shall be deemed to have occurred when a Partnership signature page is executed by the Partner in question and countersigned by a Managing Partner.

B. Indemnification. The Partnership shall indemnify any person who is made, or threatened to be made, a party to any action, suit or proceeding (whether civil, criminal, administrative or investigative) by reason of the fact that he or she, his or her testator or intestate is or was a manager, employee or agent of the Partnership or serves or served any other enterprise at the request of the Partnership as follows:

provided, however, that any indemnity under this paragraph shall be provided out of and to the extent of partnership assets only, and no partner shall have any personal liability with regard to the indemnity.

C. Notice. Any and all notices provided for in this Agreement shall be given in writing by registered or certified mail, return receipt requested, which shall be addressed to the last address known to the sender or delivered to the recipient in person.

D. Modifications. No modification of this Agreement shall be valid unless such modification is in writing and signed by the parties to this Agreement.

E. Opinion of Counsel. The doing of any act or the failure to do any act by any Partner (the effect of which may cause or result in loss or damage to the Partnership), if pursuant to opinion of legal counsel employed by the Managing Partners on behalf of the Partnership, shall not subject such Partner to any liability. Further, the Managing Partners shall not be liable for any error in judgment or any mistake of law or fact or any act done in good faith in the exercise of powers and authority conferred upon them, but shall be liable only for gross negligence or willful default.

F. Additional Instruments. This Agreement shall be binding upon the parties to this Agreement and upon their heirs, executors, administrators, successors or assigns, and the parties agree for themselves and their heirs, executors, administrators, successors and assigns to execute any and all instruments in writing which are or may become necessary or proper to carry out the purpose and intent of this Agreement.

G. Amendments. This Agreement may be altered at any time by the decision of Partners holding not less than of the then capital of the Partnership confirmed by an instrument in writing, which instrument the Partners now agree to execute.

H. Banking. The Partnership shall maintain a bank account in the Partnership's name in a national or state bank in . Checks and drafts shall be drawn on the Partnership's bank account for Partnership purposes only and shall be signed by the Managing Partners, or their designated agent.

I. Titles and Subtitles. Titles of the Sections, paragraphs and subparagraphs of this Agreement are for convenient reference only and shall not to any extent have the effect of modifying, amending or changing the express terms and provisions of this partnership Agreement.

J. Words and Gender or Number. As used in this Agreement, unless the context clearly indicates the contrary, the singular number shall include the plural, the plural the singular, and the use of any gender shall be applicable to all genders.

K. Severability. If any parts of this Agreement are found to be void, the remaining provisions of this Agreement shall remain binding with the same effect as though the void parts were deleted.

L. Effective Date. This Agreement shall be effective only upon execution by all of the proposed Partners.

M. Execution. This Agreement may be executed by each of the Partners on a separate signature page.

N. Waiver. No waiver of any provisions of this Agreement shall be valid unless in writing and signed by the person or party against whom charged.

O. Applicable Law. This Agreement shall be subject to and governed by the laws of .

P. Agreement Binding. This Agreement shall be binding upon and inure to the benefit of the parties and their respective heirs, legal representatives, executors, administrators, successors and assigns.

Q. Arbitration. No civil action concerning any dispute arising under this Agreement shall be instituted before any court and all such disputes shall be submitted to final and binding arbitration under the auspices of the American Arbitration Association, , . Such arbitration shall be conducted in accordance with the rules of such association before a single arbitrator. The parties agree that the capital interests of the Partnership cannot be readily sold in the open market, and for that reason among others, the parties will be irreparably damaged if this Agreement is not specifically enforced. Therefore, in addition to any award of damages, any such award may, in the discretion of the arbitrator, specify specific performance of this Agreement. All costs and expenses of the arbitration, including actual attorney's fees, shall be allocated among the parties according to the arbitrator's discretion. The arbitrator's award resulting from such arbitration may be confirmed and entered as a final judgment in any court of competent jurisdiction and enforced accordingly.

WITNESS our signatures as of the day and date first above stated.

By:

By:

(Attachment of exhibits)

Enter text✕

What a General Partnership Agreement Is

A General Partnership Agreement is a private contract between two or more persons who agree to carry on a business for profit as co-owners. The agreement defines ownership percentages, capital contributions, allocation of profits and losses, management authority, decision-making processes, dispute resolution, and procedures for admitting or removing partners. While many states do not require a written partnership agreement, having one reduces uncertainty, clarifies tax treatment, and documents parties' expectations for operations and exit events.

Why a Written Agreement Matters for Partnerships

A written General Partnership Agreement clarifies roles, protects partners from misunderstandings, and creates contractual remedies for breaches. It also establishes tax allocation and management rules, which affect IRS reporting and liability exposure under state law.

Why a Written Agreement Matters for Partnerships

Who Uses a General Partnership Agreement

Use a written agreement whenever partners want clear governance, predictable tax treatment, or documented exit and succession rules.

  • Small business owners who share management and profits directly
  • Professional practices (legal, accounting, medical) forming informal partnerships
  • Real estate investors pooling capital for joint ventures

Core Clauses to Include in the Agreement

A professional General Partnership Agreement balances operational detail with flexibility. Include clauses that address control, contributions, financial reporting, decision thresholds, dispute processes, and exit mechanics to reduce future litigation risk and support tax compliance.

Ownership

Specify each partner's ownership percentage, voting power, and whether ownership is transferable without approval; tie percentages to capital or contribution schedules.

Capital Contributions

Detail initial and future contributions (cash, property, services), deadlines, valuation method, and remedies for missed contributions, including dilution or interest.

Profits & Losses

State allocation rules (by percentage or special allocations), timing of distributions, reserve policies, and accounting standards (cash vs. accrual).

Management

Define partner authority, day-to-day decision thresholds, approval requirements for material transactions, and delegated managers if applicable.

Dispute Resolution

Include mediation/arbitration procedures, governing law selection, venue, and steps before litigation to streamline conflict resolution.

Exit & Termination

Set buyout formulas, valuation methods, transfer restrictions, dissolution triggers, and post-termination wind-up responsibilities.

Essential Information and Required Fields

Parties' Names: Full legal names
Business Name: DBA or trade name
Contributions: Amount and description
Ownership Split: Percentages
Effective Date: MM/DD/YYYY
Governing Law: State selection

How to Complete the Agreement, Step by Step

Follow a logical sequence when preparing the agreement: gather partner information, agree on economics and governance, draft terms, review with counsel, obtain signatures, and retain executed copies.

  • 01
    Gather Details: Collect legal names, addresses, and contribution specifics for each partner.
  • 02
    Draft Terms: Record ownership, decision rules, dispute process, and exit mechanics in clear language.
  • 03
    Legal Review: Have counsel check tax, liability, and creditor exposure implications.
  • 04
    Execute: All partners sign and date; record effective date and retain originals.

Configuring an Online Execution Workflow

When executing electronically, set a clear signer sequence, authentication level, and storage rules before sending.

Field Configuration
Signer Order Sequential or parallel signing
Authentication Email, SMS code, or ID verification
Reminders Auto-reminders and expiration settings
Retention PDF archives and audit trail storage

Where to Send or File the Executed Agreement

A General Partnership Agreement is typically a private record; decide where copies will be held and what third parties require notice.

  • Partners' Records: Each partner keeps an executed copy in their business records.
  • Bank: Provide to banks for account opening as required.
  • Tax Advisor: Deliver to accountant for partnership tax return preparation.
  • County Clerk: File DBA/trade name if operating under a fictitious name.

Digital Signing: Platform Needs and File Formats

Store signed copies in secure cloud storage with versioning and export options for long-term retention.

  • File Types: PDF and Word DOCX supported
  • Integrations: Connects to CRM and cloud storage
  • Authentication: Email, SMS, or advanced KBA

Key Timing and Filing Deadlines to Watch

While the agreement itself has no federal filing deadline, related tax and registration deadlines affect partners and the business.

Agreement Execution:

No statutory filing deadline; sign before operations begin.

Partnership Return:

Form 1065 due March 15 annually (IRS guidance).

DBA Registration:

Deadlines vary by county; register before public use.

Estimated Taxes:

Partners may owe quarterly estimated taxes; schedule payments accordingly.

Record Retention:

Keep financial records at least three years for IRS audits.

Typical Execution Milestones

Follow these milestones from draft to storage to ensure a complete and enforceable agreement.

01

Draft Agreement

Prepare terms and circulate to all partners for review.

02

Legal Review

Have counsel check tax and liability implications.

03

Signatures

All partners execute with dates and witness/notary if required.

04

Store Copies

Retain original and distribute certified copies to partners.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

  • Vague profit allocation leading to partner disputes
  • No exit or buyout formula defined
  • Failure to document capital contributions precisely
  • Skipping legal and tax review before signing

Risks and Consequences of an Incomplete Agreement

Tax Exposure: Incorrect allocations
Personal Liability: Unlimited partner liability
Disputes: Costly litigation
Bank Issues: Account access delays
Creditors: Partnership assets exposed
Operational Drift: Unclear authority

eSignature Pricing Comparison for Executing Agreements

Below is a concise vendor comparison for common eSignature features and starting prices; signNow is listed first per vendor convention.

signNow DocuSign Adobe Sign PandaDoc HelloSign
Starting Price $8/user/mo $15/user/mo $14/user/mo $19/user/mo $15/user/mo
Free Trial 7-day free trial Varies by plan Varies by plan Varies by plan Varies by plan
Bulk Send Yes Yes Yes Yes No
Audit Trail Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes
HIPAA Compliant Yes Yes Yes No No

Real-World Examples of Executing Agreements Online

These examples show how electronic tools have been used to finalize partnership or business agreements efficiently.

Tim Martin — Martin Properties

Tim Martin used online signing to execute partnership documents across multiple states quickly

  • He noted reliable mobile and offline signing capabilities
  • The result: agreements were completed with consistent compliance controls and stored securely for later audits, improving turnaround on closings.

Brian Fitzgibbons — Optica Ventures LLC

Brian Fitzgibbons emphasized ease of use for internal teams and clients

  • Simpler signing reduced back-and-forth emails
  • This allowed the company to close funding and joint-venture agreements faster while maintaining a clear audit trail for each executed partnership document.

Practical Tips for Clear, Enforceable Agreements

Apply these practices to reduce ambiguity and protect partners' interests when preparing a General Partnership Agreement.

Use Plain Language
Draft clear, unambiguous clauses to reduce disputes and limit costly litigation interpretation.
Address Taxes
Specify tax allocations and consult a CPA to avoid unexpected partner liabilities.
Define Exit Terms
Include valuation and buyout mechanics to streamline partner departures or transfers.
Keep Records
Store executed agreements and amendments with secure backups and audit trails.

Frequently Asked Questions About the Agreement

Answers to common questions about enforceability, signatures, amendments, and recordkeeping for General Partnership Agreements.


Need help? Contact support

be ready to get more
Join over 28 million airSlate SignNow users