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What is dissolution of partnership firm?
It is the legal closure of a partnership business. When a firm is dissolved, the partnership agreement ends, the firm stops its operations, and its name is removed from official records.
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How is dissolution of a firm different from retirement of a partner?
In retirement, only one partner leaves while the firm continues with others. In dissolution, the entire firm closes, and all partners stop operating together.
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Can dissolution happen without mutual consent?
Yes. While most firms close by mutual agreement, a court can also order dissolution if there is misconduct, insolvency, or incapacity of a partner.
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Why is a dissolution deed necessary?
A dissolution deed is proof that all partners agreed to close the firm. It records how assets and liabilities are settled, preventing disputes in the future.
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Who can apply for dissolution of partnership firm?
Any partner can initiate the process. However, it is usually done jointly by all partners to ensure smooth closure and faster approval.
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What are the common reasons for dissolution of a firm?
The most common reasons include mutual agreement, expiry of the firm’s fixed term, completion of a specific project, insolvency of partners, or an order from the court.
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How are assets of the firm settled during dissolution?
Firm assets are first used to clear debts and liabilities. The remaining balance, if any, is distributed among partners based on the profit-sharing ratio mentioned in the partnership deed.
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What happens to the liabilities of a firm after dissolution?
Liabilities such as loans or dues must be cleared before the closure is final. Partners are jointly responsible for ensuring all debts are settled.
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Is it mandatory to inform the Registrar of Firms about dissolution?
Yes. To legally end the firm, a notice must be filed with the Registrar of Firms. Only then will the firm’s name be officially removed from records.
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Can a partnership firm be dissolved if one partner is not agreeing?
Yes, if there are valid grounds like misconduct or incapacity, a partner can approach the court to order dissolution even without unanimous consent.
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How long does it take to dissolve a partnership firm?
The process usually takes 2–4 weeks, depending on document preparation, partner approvals, and processing time at the Registrar of Firms.
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Do I need to publish a notice in a newspaper for dissolution?
In most states, a public notice is recommended so creditors and third parties are aware of the firm’s closure and cannot raise future claims.
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What if the firm is not formally dissolved?
If the firm is not dissolved properly, partners may still be held responsible for liabilities and can face legal disputes even after stopping business.
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Does dissolution affect the personal assets of partners?
If the firm’s assets are insufficient to clear debts, partners may need to use personal funds since partners have unlimited liability in a general partnership.
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What documents are needed for dissolution of partnership firm?
The key documents include the partnership deed, a duly signed dissolution deed, PAN card of the firm, identity/address proof of partners, and latest financial statements.
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What is the role of the dissolution deed?
The dissolution deed clearly states how assets and liabilities are divided, how outstanding accounts are settled, and confirms that the firm is closing with mutual consent.
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Can a partnership firm be revived after dissolution?
No. Once a firm is dissolved, it cannot be revived. Partners will need to form a new partnership firm if they want to start working together again.
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Is GST or tax registration also required to be canceled after dissolution?
Yes. Apart from notifying the Registrar, firms must also cancel GST registration, PAN-based registrations, and inform the Income Tax Department to avoid penalties.
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Do partners need to inform clients, suppliers, or banks about dissolution?
Yes, it is a good practice to inform all stakeholders. This avoids confusion, clears dues, and ensures a smooth handover of accounts and obligations.
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How can Ebizfiling help with dissolution of partnership firm?
Ebizfiling helps draft the dissolution deed, prepares and files forms with the Registrar, ensures proper settlement of assets and liabilities, and guides you through every step until your firm is legally closed.