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Registering a partnership firm in India involves a series of steps to ensure compliance with the Indian Partnership Act, 1932, and other applicable regulations. Here’s a step-by-step guide to registering a partnership firm in India:
Also read: What are the different forms of businesses in India? | Pros and cons of partnership in India
Choose a firm name:
Pick a unique name for your partnership firm that is not similar to any existing company or trademark.
Draft a partnership deed:
Create a partnership deed that outlines the terms and conditions of the partnership, such as the names of partners, their respective capital contributions, profit and loss sharing ratios, and the rights and responsibilities of each partner. It is advisable to consult a legal expert when drafting the partnership deed.
Notarize the partnership deed:
Get the partnership deed notarized by a public notary. This step is not mandatory, but it is recommended to ensure the legal validity of the deed.
Obtain a Permanent Account Number (PAN) for the firm:
Apply for a separate PAN for your partnership firm through the Income Tax Department’s website.
Register under the Shop and Establishment Act:
Depending on the state where your firm operates, you may need to register your partnership firm under the Shop and Establishment Act. This registration is usually done through the local municipal corporation or the relevant state government department.
Obtain a Goods and Services Tax (GST) registration:
If your partnership firm’s annual turnover exceeds the threshold limit specified under the GST Act (currently ₹20 lakhs for most states and ₹10 lakhs for special category states), you need to register for GST. You can apply for GST registration through the GST portal (www.gst.gov.in).
Open a bank account:
Open a bank account in the name of the partnership firm to manage its financial transactions. Banks may require the partnership deed, PAN card, and proof of the firm’s registered address for opening an account.
Register the partnership firm (optional):
While registering a partnership firm is not mandatory under the Indian Partnership Act, 1932, it is advisable to do so to enjoy certain legal benefits, such as the ability to file a lawsuit against third parties. To register the partnership firm, you need to submit an application to the Registrar of Firms (RoF) in the state where your firm operates, along with the partnership deed and other necessary documents.
Obtain necessary licenses and permits:
Depending on the nature of your business, you may need additional licenses or permits, such as a Professional Tax registration, Importer Exporter Code (IEC), Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) license, or a local trade license.
Register for Employee Provident Fund (EPF) and Employee State Insurance (ESI):
If you plan to hire employees, you may need to register for the EPF and ESI schemes. The registration can be done through the respective websites of the Employees’ Provident Fund Organisation (EPFO) and the Employees’ State Insurance Corporation (ESIC).
Consult a legal or financial expert during the registration process to ensure compliance with all requirements and avoid complications.