How much privacy does a general partnership actually offer?

In most states, general partnerships don't require filing with the Secretary of State, so there's no public record of the partnership itself. However, if you need to register a tra de name or DBA, that might be public. Also, if you open a bank account, the bank will have your info but it's not public.

Wait, don't general partnerships have to file a statement of partnership authority in some states? I think California does. That would be public.

Yes, some states like California require a Statement of Partnership Authority if you want to be able to transfer real property, but it's not mandatory for all. It varies.

Even if the partnership isn't registered,your names might appear on local business licenses, permits, or professional registrations. And lawsuits? Those are public. So if someone sues the partnership, your names are in the court record.

Also, if you own real estate in the partnership's name, the deed will show the partnership name, but if it's a general partnership, the partners' names might not be on the deed. However, title insurance and mortgage docs could reveal.

Honestly, general partnerships are a privacy nightmare compared to LLCs. With an LLC, you can often use a registered agent to keep your name off public filings. With a GP, there's no such buffer. Plus, unlimited personal liability. Bad idea.

But wait, some states don't require LLC members to be listed publicly either. So depending on the state, an LLC can be more private. But a GP is definitely less formal, so fewer records.

I think the key is that while GPs don't have a central registration, privacy is still leaky. Any legal action, property transaction, or licensing will expose names. If privacy is a priority, an anonymous LLC might be better.

What about using a DBA under a different name name? That could add a layer, but the DBA filing is often public and might require the partners' names.

Exactly. And if you're in a state that requires publication of partnership formation (like some do for LLCs), you're screwed. Check your state's laws.

Also, don't forget that general partnerships are taxed as pass-through, so the IRS knows who you are, but that's not public.