Partnerskabsform

Partnerskabsform is a Danish term that refers to the legal form or structure a business adopts for its operations. The choice of partnerskabsform determines who owns the business, how it is managed, how liability is allocated, how profits are taxed, and how the business can raise capital. It also affects issues such as succession and continuity if partners change.

Common partnerskabsformer in Denmark include:

- Interessentskab (I/S): a general partnership where two or more partners participate in management and bear unlimited personal liability for the business debts. Profits are allocated to the partners and taxed at their personal level.

- Kommanditselskab (K/S): a limited partnership that has at least one general partner with unlimited liability and one or more limited partners whose liability is limited to their contributed capital. General partners run the business, while limited partners typically contribute capital without involvement in daily management.

- Anpartsselskab (ApS): a private limited company with separate legal personality. Liability is limited to the share capital, and governance is conducted through a board of directors and potentially a managing director. Profits are subject to corporate taxation.

- Aktieselskab (A/S): a public limited company, also with limited liability and separate legal personality. Designed for larger operations and easier access to capital, with stricter governance, reporting, and funding requirements.

Formation and ongoing obligations vary by form, including capital requirements, registration, and financial reporting. The choice of partnerskabsform influences risk exposure, control, tax treatment, and the ability to raise funds, making it a central decision in early business planning.