How to Create a General Partnership in Wisconsin: A Beginner’s Guide


Steve Bennett
Steve Bennett
Business Formation Expert
Steve runs LLCBuddy, helping entrepreneurs set up their LLCs easily. He offers clear guides, articles, and FAQs to simplify the process. His team keeps everything accurate and current, focusing on state rules, registered agents, and compliance. Steve’s passion for helping businesses grow makes LLCBuddy a go-to resource for starting and managing an LLC.

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Create a General Partnership in Wisconsin

Forming a general partnership in Wisconsin can be a great way to combine your skills, resources, and ideas to create a thriving business. In Wisconsin, also known as The Badger State, general partnerships are relatively easy to establish, making them an attractive option for entrepreneurs who want to keep things simple and cost-effective.

This article will guide you through the essential steps to start a general partnership in Wisconsin. From understanding the legal requirements and drafting a partnership agreement to registering your partnership and obtaining necessary permits, we’ll provide you with the necessary tools and insights to help you launch your business venture. Whether you’re opening a boutique retail store or a cutting-edge tech startup, this comprehensive guide will help you navigate the process of starting a general partnership in Wisconsin.

What is General Partnership In Wisconsin

It is a business structure where two or more people come together to form a jointly owned business. In the general partnership business, the partners agree upon sharing assets, responsibilities, profits, and liabilities (legal & financial). In a general partnership, Partners consent to carry potentially unlimited liability personally. Liabilities are not restricted as they would be, for example, in a limited liability partnership (LLP) or a limited liability company (LLC) structure. Unlike the LLCs, a partner, in this case, can be legally sued for any business debts, and a possibility of seizure of personal assets can occur.

Before you start setting up your general partnership, it is advised that you consult a legal person. They will know what is best for you and your business. You can always form an LLC instead of a general partnership to protect your personal assets from business debts.

– LLCBuddy Editorial Team

How to Create a General Partnership in Wisconsin

To create a general partnership in Wisconsin, you must follow the guidelines below: forming a business name, making a partnership agreement, requesting an EIN, getting a license and permit, getting a state-based tax ID, and opening a bank account.

Step 1: Choose a Business Name in Wisconsin

Naming your business is one of the most crucial activities during the startup phase. Your general partnership name is the foundation for your brand in Wisconsin and is what clients use to connect you to the products or services you offer. Legal procedures should be taken into account when choosing your partnership name. Choose a business name that will enable you to develop a strong brand identity without being hampered by irrelevant factors.

If you want to set up an LLC, there is a complete guide on Wisconsin LLC name guidelines for a proper business name. Here are some guidelines you must follow while naming your general partnership-

  • Name availability: The name should be available, and no other entity should have the same name in Wisconsin.
  • Trademarks
  • Limit of restricted words that need a license in Wisconsin

In Wisconsin, if you register your general partnership business with the Wisconsin Secretary of State, then the name you choose will be the company’s official name. On the contrary, unregistered general partnership businesses use the last name of all of their partners by default. For instance, if Selena Gomez and Hailey Beiber enter business together, the partnership name is “Gomez & Bieber” by default if unregistered. However, if you would like to form a business name under something more appropriate, such as “EJI Design and Build,” then you’ll need to file a “Doing Business As (DBA)” name with Wisconsin SOS.

In Wisconsin, if you do not wish to file your general partnership business right away but want to hold the name that you have decided on, then you can reserve your business name for 120 days. You must file a name reservation application with the SOS to keep the name.

Step 2: Make a Partnership Agreement

After you have chosen a business name for your general partnership, the next step would be making a partnership agreement in Wisconsin. A partnership agreement is a legal contract that specifies how a for-profit company would operate when run by two or more people.

The partnership agreement specifies each partner’s roles within the company, their ownership stakes, and their share of profits and losses. Additionally, it discusses business management guidelines and potential contingencies that may arise, such as a partner’s passing or a partner’s decision to leave the partnership. A partnership agreement should include the following:

  • Name of Partners
  • The principal address of the partnership
  • Purpose of the partnership
  • Terms of the partnership
  • Partnership start date and end date (if not for infinite time)
  • Partnership dissolution terms (for finite partnership)
  • Capital contribution of partners
  • Share of Interest of Partners
  • Profit distribution of partners (equal distribution by default, if not specifies any special condition)
  • Salary distribution (if applicable)
  • Partnership Management Terms
  • Terms of Partnership Sale

These key factors must be considered when forming or creating a partnership agreement in Wisconsin. In this way, all business partners will understand what this is about and how to proceed if the mentioned scenarios happen in Wisconsin.

Without a Partnership Agreement, your company will often be subject to the general partnership default laws of Wisconsin. The default laws in Wisconsin might not be appropriate for your requirements. Hence, it is important to have a transparent agreement while forming a partnership.

Step 3: Request an EIN in Wisconsin

After documenting the partnership agreement, you should get or request an Employer Identification Number (EIN). An EIN will serve as the tax ID for your general partnership. EIN can be obtained from the Internal Revenue Service (IRS). It is a 9-digit number similar to Social Security Number. EIN, however, is distinct from SSN. It is only used for business-related activities, particularly for submitting general taxes. The form must be completed and uploaded to the IRS website. Getting EIN is necessary whether you are opening an LLC in Wisconsin, or a general partnership, or something else.

The application of an EIN in Wisconsin can be through the following:

  • Apply Online- You can apply for EIN online, which is the most desirable and fastest method for users.
  • Apply by Fax- Another method of obtaining EIN is to fax Form SS-4 (PDF) after entering all the correct information to (855) 641-6935.
  • Apply by Mail- The EIN application Form SS-4 can be filed via mail. The processing time frame to receive the mail is 4 weeks.
  • Apply by Telephone-International Applicants – International applicants may call 267-941-1099 (not a toll-free number) from 6 a.m. to 11 p.m. (Eastern Time) Monday through Friday to obtain their EIN.

After you have your EIN number, you can benefit in several ways. It will provide your general partnership with the final advantage necessary to operate fully without encountering legal or judicial issues. For more details about EIN for your business, you may check why you need EIN.

Step 4: License and Permit for General Partnership in Wisconsin

Before your general partnership business operates in Wisconsin, you must have a business license first. A business license is a document issued by a government agency that permits you to operate your business in the geographic region that that agency governs.

To legally operate your partnership, you must apply for a business license to Wisconsin Department of Financial Institutions. In some states, you might need to obtain a Privilege License. Based on the business structure, you might need it. In Wisconsin, partnership businesses do not need to get to obtain a privilege license. You might even need more than one license in Wisconsin. Numerous general partnership licenses need to be filed and renewed regularly.

Step 5: Obtain Wisconsin Tax ID Number

In Wisconsin, to conduct a business, you must comply with the Wisconsin Department of Revenue. If you have a general partnership in Wisconsin, you must obtain the Wisconsin Tax ID number from Wisconsin Department of Revenue. Your partnership business must pay state taxes (if applicable).

Step 6: Open a Bank Account

Once you have filed and received your general partnership license, you should now open a bank account since you will use this account for yourself, your clients, and your employees.

Your business dealings in Wisconsin might be simpler with a US business bank account because it boosts your company’s legitimacy and liquidity. Most banks demand an EIN for creating a business bank account for firms other than sole proprietorships. Also, keeping separate finances helps you avoid combining personal and professional finances.

Example of General Partnership in Wisconsin

Individuals looking to collaborate and numerous kinds of service providers have chosen general partnerships as their preferred business entity. That’s frequently because of its simple design, low price, and simplicity of setup. Some general partnership examples include:

  • Providing professional services (architectural firms, medical clinics, etc.)
  • Selling goods at retail
  • Opening a restaurant
  • Business Consulting

General partnerships are also formed by partners who are spouses or other family members who want to operate a business together.

Important Information

Maintaining Business License in Wisconsin

Now that you have established your general partnership, you must maintain or renew your business license every now and then. Make time to check the status of your licenses at least once per year. Then, you can keep from missing anything significant. If there are any issues, you can address them.

Paying your Taxes in Wisconsin

Even if you have established your general partnership in Wisconsin, pay your taxes and keep everything up to date so you won’t pay any penalty. Wisconsin tax information will help you with what to pay before or during the operation of your professional corporation. You must check with Wisconsin Department of Revenue for more details.

Advantages of General Partnership in Wisconsin

  • Foundation only requires two people: Forming a general partnership doesn’t need many people to operate. You can form a general partnership with a partner in mind and a business plan. It can be a group of friends or colleagues, a family member, or a spouse and wife partnership.
  • Equal Rights: Everyone is granted equal rights when a business is founded using a general partnership; each partner is free to express their ideas and choose what is best for the company’s success.
  • Management Option: One of the advantages of joining a general partnership is the opportunity to select the finest management options for the company. For this reason, large partnerships should draft an agreement describing each partner’s responsibilities inside the business. As a result, each partner’s leadership abilities are enhanced.
  • Flexibility: General Partnership is the basic form of a business structure since it can be converted into any business entity, such as LLC. If you have flexibility in applying for an LLC in Wisconsin, you will have default rules set by law, and you need to have an operating agreement for this.
  • Pass-through taxation: The pass-through tax structure will make the general partnership business not pay twice the tax. Due to this structure, most start-ups and entrepreneurs in Wisconsin apply for a GP or LLC. And one of the main advantages of a general partnership is that partners don’t have to pay for the losses collectively.

FAQs

What is a general partnership in Wisconsin?
A general partnership in Wisconsin is a business structure in which two or more people share ownership and the profits of a business.
Are general partnerships in Wisconsin required to register with the state?
Yes, general partnerships in Wisconsin are required to register with the Wisconsin Department of Financial Institutions in order to operate legally.
What is the process for forming a general partnership in Wisconsin?
The process for forming a general partnership in Wisconsin includes filing a partnership registration document with the Wisconsin Department of Financial Institutions, creating a partnership agreement, registering with the Internal Revenue Service, and obtaining necessary permits and licenses.
Does a general partnership in Wisconsin need a partnership agreement?
Yes, a partnership agreement is a legally binding document that sets forth the rights and responsibilities of each partner in the partnership. It is strongly recommended that general partnerships in Wisconsin have a partnership agreement in place.
Are general partnerships in Wisconsin required to pay taxes?
Yes, general partnerships in Wisconsin are required to pay taxes on the business’s income, as well as the individual partners’ share of the profits.
Are general partnerships in Wisconsin required to provide employees with benefits?
General partnerships in Wisconsin are not required to provide employees with benefits, but the partners may choose to do so.
Does a general partnership in Wisconsin need to abide by any employment laws?
Yes, general partnerships in Wisconsin must abide by all applicable federal, state, and local employment laws.
Can a general partnership in Wisconsin be dissolved?
Yes, a general partnership in Wisconsin can be dissolved by mutual agreement or by court order.
What is the liability of general partners in Wisconsin?
The general partners in a Wisconsin general partnership are personally liable for the debts and obligations of the partnership, as well as for the negligence or misconduct of other partners.
Is a general partnership in Wisconsin required to have insurance?
While not required, it is strongly recommended that general partnerships in Wisconsin have business liability insurance to protect the partners’ personal assets in the event of a lawsuit.
Are general partnerships in Wisconsin required to keep records?
Yes, general partnerships in Wisconsin must maintain accurate financial records, including books of account, tax returns, and records of all income, expenses, and assets.
Is it possible to convert a general partnership in Wisconsin to another business structure?
Yes, it is possible to convert a Wisconsin general partnership to another business structure, such as a limited liability company (LLC) or a corporation.
What are the benefits of a general partnership in Wisconsin?
The benefits of a general partnership in Wisconsin include flexibility, shared profits, and the ability to pool resources.
What is a General Partnership in Wisconsin?
A general partnership in Wisconsin is a business entity created when two or more individuals decide to jointly operate a business. Each partner is liable for the debts of the business and any legal action against the partnership.
What are the benefits of forming a General Partnership in Wisconsin?
Benefits of forming a general partnership in Wisconsin include a simplified formation process, easy management, and tax advantages. Additionally, partners may be able to divide profits amongst themselves and enjoy the flexibility of a partnership.
What are the drawbacks of forming a General Partnership in Wisconsin?
Drawbacks of forming a general partnership in Wisconsin include unlimited liability for each partner, the need for all partners to agree on decisions, and potential disagreements between partners.
What are the advantages of forming a Limited Liability Company (LLC) instead of a General Partnership in Wisconsin?
Advantages of forming a Limited Liability Company (LLC) instead of a general partnership in Wisconsin include limited liability for each member, the ability for members to remain anonymous, and the ability for members to have different ownership interests in the business.
How do I form a General Partnership in Wisconsin?
To form a general partnership in Wisconsin, you must register the business with the Wisconsin Department of Financial Institutions, obtain a business tax registration certificate, and register the business with the local government. Additionally, you must create a partnership agreement.
What are the filing fees and taxes associated with a General Partnership in Wisconsin?
Filing fees and taxes associated with a general partnership in Wisconsin depend on the type of business and the amount of income earned. Generally, a general partnership must pay the Wisconsin franchise tax, state and local sales taxes, and a per capita tax.
Are there any restrictions on who can be a partner in a General Partnership in Wisconsin?
There are no restrictions on who can be a partner in a general partnership in Wisconsin, but all partners must enter into the partnership agreement and be listed as such on the partnership registration.
What are the requirements for a partnership agreement in Wisconsin?
Requirements for a partnership agreement in Wisconsin include outlining the responsibilities of each partner, specifying the percentage of profits each partner will receive, and establishing a method for resolving disputes. Additionally, the agreement should include information about the business, such as its name, purpose, and address.
What are the record-keeping requirements for a General Partnership in Wisconsin?
Record-keeping requirements for a general partnership in Wisconsin include keeping records of financial transactions, maintaining a list of all partners, and filing annual reports with the Wisconsin Department of Financial Institutions.
How can I dissolve a General Partnership in Wisconsin?
To dissolve a general partnership in Wisconsin, the partners must file a dissolution form with the Wisconsin Department of Financial Institutions and notify all creditors of the dissolution. Additionally, any outstanding debts must be paid before the dissolution is complete.
What is the difference between a General Partnership and a Limited Liability Company (LLC) in Wisconsin?
The main difference between a general partnership and a Limited Liability Company (LLC) in Wisconsin is that an LLC offers limited liability protection for its members, while a general partnership offers no such protection. Additionally, an LLC has more flexibility when it comes to ownership interests.
Can I form a General Partnership in Wisconsin online?
Yes, you can form a general partnership in Wisconsin online by completing the required forms and filing them with the Wisconsin Department of Financial Institutions.
Does a General Partnership in Wisconsin need to register with the IRS?
Yes, a general partnership in Wisconsin must register with the Internal Revenue Service (IRS). Generally, the partnership must obtain an Employer Identification Number (EIN) and file an annual tax return.
Does a General Partnership in Wisconsin need to have an annual meeting?
Generally, a general partnership in Wisconsin does not need to have an annual meeting. However, some partnership agreements may require that one be held.
Does a General Partnership in Wisconsin need to have a written partnership agreement?
Yes, a general partnership in Wisconsin must have a written partnership agreement that outlines the responsibilities of each partner, specifies the percentage of profits each partner will receive, and establishes a method for resolving disputes.
Can a General Partnership in Wisconsin issue stock?
No, a general partnership in Wisconsin cannot issue stock. Generally, only corporations can issue stock.
Does a General Partnership in Wisconsin need to register with the Wisconsin Department of Financial Institutions?
Yes, a general partnership in Wisconsin must register with the Wisconsin Department of Financial Institutions.
Is a General Partnership in Wisconsin its own legal entity?
No, a general partnership in Wisconsin is not its own legal entity. Instead, each partner is personally liable for the debts of the business and any legal action against the partnership.
Are there any special laws that apply to General Partnerships in Wisconsin?
Yes, there are several special laws that apply to general partnerships in Wisconsin. These laws include the Wisconsin Partnership Law, the Wisconsin Limited Liability Company Law, and the Wisconsin Unincorporated Entity Law.
Does a General Partnership in Wisconsin need to have a business license?
Generally, a general partnership in Wisconsin does not need to obtain a business license. However, depending on the type of business, some local governments may require a license.
How long does it take to form a General Partnership in Wisconsin?
Generally, it takes about two weeks to form a general partnership in Wisconsin. The time frame may vary depending on the complexity of the business and the availability of documents.

Also Read

Why Create General Partnership Wisconsin is So Important

One of the key reasons why creating a general partnership in Wisconsin is so important is the ability to pool resources and expertise. By teaming up with another individual or business, partners can combine their skills, knowledge, and financial resources to achieve common goals. This pooling of resources can be especially valuable when starting a new venture or expanding an existing business, as partners can share the financial burden and minimize risk.

Furthermore, general partnerships offer flexibility and autonomy that may not be available with other business structures. Partners have the freedom to set their own terms and agreements, allowing them to tailor their partnership to their specific needs and goals. This flexibility can be particularly advantageous for businesses in industries with rapidly changing market conditions, as partners can quickly adapt to new challenges and opportunities.

Additionally, general partnerships in Wisconsin benefit from a simplified regulatory framework. Compared to corporations or limited liability companies (LLCs), general partnerships are relatively easy to set up and operate. Partners do not need to comply with extensive filing requirements or formalities, making it a cost-effective and efficient business structure for many entrepreneurs.

Another important aspect of general partnerships is the shared decision-making process. In a partnership, partners work together to make key business decisions, which can lead to more effective and informed choices. This collaborative approach to decision-making can help businesses navigate complex challenges and capitalize on emerging opportunities, ultimately leading to greater success and growth.

Furthermore, general partnerships in Wisconsin enjoy pass-through taxation, which means that profits and losses are passed through to the partners and reported on their individual tax returns. This can result in significant tax benefits for partners, as they may be able to offset income from the partnership with deductions or losses. This tax advantage can help partners retain more of their earnings and reinvest them back into the business.

In conclusion, creating a general partnership in Wisconsin can be a smart and strategic move for businesses looking to succeed in today’s competitive market. Partnerships offer unique advantages, including the ability to pool resources and expertise, flexibility and autonomy, simplified regulatory requirements, shared decision-making, and pass-through taxation. By leveraging these benefits, businesses can unlock new opportunities for growth and prosperity.

Conclusion

In conclusion, starting a general partnership in Wisconsin may effectively combine resources, expertise, and creativity to achieve your mutual business goals. By understanding the legal requirements, drafting a thorough partnership agreement, and registering your partnership, you’ll be well on your way to a successful collaboration. As you embark on this exciting journey, remember to maintain open communication and stay committed to the shared vision that inspired your partnership in the first place.

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