The partnership

Entrepreneurs in the liberal professions (such as doctors, lawyers and graphic designers) often set up a partnership.

It is advisable to draw up a partnership contract which states the rights and obligations of the partners. You can ask a civil notary to draw up the contract or do it yourself using a model contract.

Taxes
Generally the tax authorities consider each partner to be a self-employed entrepreneur. Each partner is entitled to the self-employed tax allowance. Each partner pays income tax on his or her share of the profit.

Liability
There is no separate partnership capital. In principle a partner may only enter into obligations towards third parties on his or her own behalf. The other partners are not jointly and severally liable for obligations. However, each partner is liable for the partnership obligations.

If you are married on the basis of common estate, creditors can also make claims on your partner's assets. If you are married on the basis of a marriage contract, the personal assets of your partner fall partially or completely outside the area of business liability.

If you are married on the basis of common estate, you can still arrange a marriage contract. Ask the civil notary for details.