Before we get into the abbreviation for a partnership, let’s define what a partnership is.

A general partnership is a business arrangement in which two or more parties agree to work together to achieve a common goal. General partnerships are formed for a variety of reasons, ranging from simple convenience to the desire to pool resources and expertise. 

In most cases, partnerships are created with the intention of generating profit. However, there are also non-profit partnerships, which are formed for the purpose of achieving a shared social or environmental goal. 

Whatever the reason for forming a general partnership, it is important that all parties have a clear understanding of their roles and responsibilities. Otherwise, the partnership is likely to dissolve quickly. When done correctly, however, partnerships can be an effective way to achieve business goals.

When two or more people go into business together, they have several different options for structuring the business. One option is to create a general partnership. 

In a general partnership, each partner is equally liable for the debts and obligations of the business. This means that if the business fails, the partners will be personally responsible for repaying any debts. However, this arrangement also has some advantages. 

First, it is relatively easy to set up and maintain. There are no complex paperwork or filing requirements. 

Second, each partner has equal control over the business. This can be helpful in making decisions and moving forward with new initiatives. 

Third, partners in a general partnership can freely share information and resources. This can make communication and collaboration much easier. 

Finally, a general partnership can be a less expensive way to do business than other types of business entities such as a corporation and LLC. 
For all these reasons, a general partnership can be a good choice for many businesses.

In the context of a small business, the abbreviation for a general partnership in the U.S. is GP.

A business partnership is an arrangement between two or more individuals who agree to cooperate in order to run a business. Each partner contributes money, property, labor, or skill, and shares in the profits and losses of the business. 

A general partnership is relatively easy and inexpensive to form and does not typically require any special filings with the state. Each partner however is individually responsible for the debts and obligations of the business, which can put the owner’s personal assets at risk.

A Limited Liability Partnership (LLP) is similar to a general partnership, but with one key difference: each partner’s liability is limited to their own individual actions and not those of the other partners. This means that if one partner is sued, only their personal assets are at risk, not those of the other partners. This type of business structure is registered with the Secretary of State (or similarly named state agency responsible for forming business entities). The LLP is not available in all states. 
Limited Liability Partnerships have an advantage over an LLC if some of the owners want more passive ownership of the business and want lower liability exposure as limited partners. 

Common examples of businesses that use the LLP business structure are law firms, accounting firms, and doctor offices. The partners are practitioners that believe that by working together, they will build a larger practice than apart. Should one of the partners face legal action, the other partners won’t have to worry about the continuation of the business. 

A limited partnership (LP) is similar to a general partnership, but with one important difference: liability. In a limited partnership, there are two types of partners: general partners and limited partners. General partners manage the business and are liable for its debts. Limited partners, also known as “silent partners” contribute money but have no say in management decisions and are not liable for the debts of the business. This structure can provide some advantages, such as allowing people to invest in a business without being personally responsible for its debts. However, it can also create problems if the general partners are not able to make sound decisions or if the limited partners try to exert too much control.

Limited partnerships are often used for real estate ventures. In this scenario, the limited partners invest in the business and the general partner runs the day-to-day operations. The benefit of being a limited partner vs a general partner is that your liability is limited, while the downside is that a limited partner will not have the decision-making powers that a general partner has.

When it comes to business ownership, there are a variety of different business structures to choose from. Two of the most popular options for businesses with multiple owners are Limited Liability Companies (LLCs) and partnerships. 

So, which is the better option? Well, it depends on a number of factors. 
LLCs offer several advantages over partnerships, including personal asset protection, flexible management structure, and potential tax benefits the partnership doesn’t have access to. However, they also have a few drawbacks, such as higher formation and ongoing costs.

Related: How to form an LLC

Partnerships, on the other hand, are relatively simple and inexpensive to set up, and they offer the potential for greater profit sharing. While the partnership is easier to set up than an LLC because the registration of a Limited Liability Company is at the state level, while the partnership isn’t, this lack of structure can have a downside. If you plan to form a partnership, be sure to write a partnership agreement, which is an internal governing document of the business, so the roles and responsibilities of the partners are on paper. Another downside of the partnership is the unlimited liability. If the business is sued, each of the partners is equally liable to repay any legal fees and debts. 

Ultimately, the best business structure for your company will depend on your individual circumstances. The cost to form an LLC varies by state but ranges between $40 and $500. Potential tax savings aside, the LLCs liability protection for the owner’s personal assets is inexpensive insurance should the business face legal action.