How do I register a partnership firm?

Short answerYou register a partnership firm by executing a partnership deed on stamp paper and applying to the Registrar of Firms of your state — submitting the deed, an application (Form 1), and the partners’ details. Registration is done at the state level, not the MCA. You then get a PAN and any other registrations the business needs.

Start with the deed

The foundation of a partnership is the partnership deed — a written agreement on stamp paper setting out the partners, profit-sharing ratios, capital, roles, remuneration and exit terms. A clear deed prevents most partner disputes and is needed for the firm’s PAN and bank account even if you don’t formally register.

Register with the Registrar of Firms

Unlike a company, a partnership is registered (where you choose to) with the state Registrar of Firms, not the MCA. You submit the deed, an application (Form 1), an affidavit, and proof of the firm’s address and partners. The firm then obtains a PAN, and GST or other licences as needed. State procedures vary — confirm yours.

Registered or not — an example

Example: two partners sign a deed, get a PAN and open a bank account, and start trading — a valid partnership. Whether they also register with the Registrar of Firms affects their legal rights (see is registration mandatory). Many register precisely so they can sue to enforce contracts. Our team can draft the deed and register the firm.

Talk to CA Vijay R Singh

Want help setting up a partnership firm? You can message him directly, or book a short call to talk through your situation.

This answer is general information for founders, not tax or legal advice. Tax rates, thresholds and forms change with each Finance Act — please confirm the current position for your own facts, or speak to us, before acting.

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