Why choose a limited liability partnership (LLP)?
Typically only business owners in professions that require a state license in order to practice, such as accountants, architects, attorneys, chiropractors, doctors, dentists, etc., are allowed to form LLPs. An LLP is similar to an LLC: all partners have limited liability for business debts, but be aware that in many states the protection of limited liability partnerships are less than what LLCs or corporations receive.
Advantages of limited liability partnerships
With LLP formation, typical advantages include:
- Limited liability protection. Partners are not held personally responsible for business debts and liabilities (the limited liability partnership does not protect against liability for partners’ actions, however).
- Pass-through taxation. No tax is paid at the business level. Profits or loss are reported on the partners’ tax returns, and any tax due on business income is paid at the individual level.
- Conversion from general partnership. LLPs typically offer easier conversion from a general partnership to an LLP than to a LLC or corporation.
- Flexible management. Partners have more flexibility in management structure and can determine which partners are responsible for the day-to-day operations.
- Few formal requirements. A limited liability partnership has fewer formal requirements and annual paperwork than corporations.
How is an LLP formed?
In order to register a business as an LLP, formation documents must be filed with the appropriate state agency, and necessary filing fees paid.