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Partnership Basics

A partnership is a business with more than one owner that has not filed papers with the state to become a corporation or LLC (limited liability company). There are two basic types of partnerships -- general partnerships and limited partnerships. The general partnership is the simplest and least expensive co-owned business structure to create and maintain. However, there are a few important facts you should know about the personal liability of general partners.

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general partner

A person who joins with at least one other to own and operate a business for profit -- and who (unlike a corporation's owners), is personally liable for all the business's debts and obligations. A general partner's actions can legally bind the entire business. See also partnership, limited partnership.

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Can I safely start a business with a money-bungling buddy?

My friend and I are thinking about going into business together. He's creative, he's hardworking -- and he's very irresponsible with money (he once bought a vintage video game machine instead of paying his rent). His credit isn't so hot, either. Are there ways I can protect myself?

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