LLC vs LLP: What Are The Main Differences?

Limited liability is a significantly appealing aspect of a business structure in the matter of functioning a successful enterprise. Entities possessing this feature are capable of protecting owners, shareholders, partners, and other stakeholders’ assets from being seized in unfavorable situations.

Among models that offer this benefit, Limited Liability Companies (LLCs) and Limited Liability Partnerships (LLPs) are the two most commonly used legal entities, especially in the US.

Additionally, they share the following similarities: both are separate entities from owners, may not require legal agreements or frequent shareholders meetings in some states, have less paperwork, etc.

There are fundamental differences between a limited liability company and a limited liability partnership, which will be discussed in this article.

Overview of LLCs and LLPs in the US

What is an LLC?

A Limited Liability Company (LLC) is a widely-used corporate structure that combines the simplicity, flexibility, and tax advantages of partnerships with the liability protection of corporations.

LLC structures are widely used by famous companies such as Anheuser-Busch LLC, Blockbuster LLC, and Westinghouse Electric Company LLC

This structure has several advantages, including distinct liability, liability protection for members (owners), and impressive tax flexibility.

In accordance with your LLC’s election and the total member number, the IRS will either treat the entity as a corporation, partnership, or as a “disregarded entity”).

What is an LLP?

A Limited Liability Partnership (LLP) is a partnership in which the partners have limited liability for the business’s debts and obligations.

The structure is generally formed between groups of people or businesses sharing a common professional background or mutual. There must be at least two partners for an LLP, and a partnership agreement is used to detail the specifics of the business.

For instance, Kirkland & Ellis LLP, Latham & Watkins LLP, and Baker McKenzie (mostly law firms, accounting firms, and doctor’s offices) are LLPs.

The formation of an LLP is restricted to professionals in some states, such as California, where only lawyers, accountants, and architects are permitted.

One key advantage of an LLP is that its legal structure protects the partners’ personal assets from being seized if another partner is convicted of malpractice.

What is the difference between an LLC and an LLP?

Although both legal business entities offer limited liability protection, you should keep in mind a few standout key differences.

Management structure

An LLC’s owners are considered members, whose membership admissions are recorded and maintained by the LLC or as otherwise provided in the operating agreement.

This entity can either be managed by members or managers, providing a lot of flexibility in how you structure your business.

Meanwhile, the owners of an LLP are known as “partners,” who are in charge of running and managing the company. Similar to a general partnership, a partnership agreement specifies the LLP’s operating structure and profit-sharing policies.

Tax benefit

LLCs are unique since they can choose to be taxed as a disregarded entity, a partnership, or a corporation depending on the number of members.

Although LLCs are not subject to federal income taxes if they do not elect to be taxed as a C corporation, a few states impose annual taxes on them, such as California, Alaska, and Massachusetts.

In addition, when an LLC elects to be taxed as a disregarded entity or partnership, its members are considered self-employed and must pay self-employment taxes.

In contrast, LLPs are taxed as pass-through entities, meaning profits are reported on the partners’ individual income tax returns, and any taxes owed are paid separately.

The partners can avoid double taxation (being taxed twice, once as a business and once as an individual) and deduct losses from/ against taxable income. In comparison to corporations, the filing process is much simpler and requires less paperwork.

Limited liability protection

In general, an LLC shields you from personal liability for any debts or lawsuits brought against the company. Even if the LLC cannot compensate individuals the company has directly harmed, the member’s personal property is still protected from asset forfeiture.

Similar to LLCs, LLPs provide limited liability protection for the partners, but each partner is individually responsible for their own errors and negligence. In the event of a professional malpractice lawsuit against a partner, the other partners cannot be held liable for the debt.

Potential application and limitation

Considering setting up an LLC if you:

• Own a small or medium-sized business (sole proprietorship or partnership)
• Wish to protect your valuable personal assets
• Want to pay less tax than a corporation

An LLC membership interest can be transferred to a new owner without excessive paperwork if the state laws and operating agreement allow it. As a result, it’s preferable to an LLP for buying, selling, and transferring ownership.

You might also want to note that some states prohibit certain types of professionals from forming LLCs. Accordingly, LLCs are not allowed to execute several professional services, including legal, banking, insurance, or trust company business.

An LLP would be the competent choice for owners who are:

• Physicians
• Engineers
• Accountants
• Surveyors
• Architects
• Consultants
• Attorneys
• And so forth.

LLPs are not available nationwide since the model is restricted to certain professions and industries. Nevertheless, this remains a good choice for licensed professionals planning to open their own offices or businesses.

Key takeaways

Here is a table summarizing the main distinguishing features of an LLP vs. an LLC.

Your business’s scale and goals will determine which of the two models will be most beneficial for you. In case there are more options than expected to select from before opening the enterprise, take your time evaluating all potential possibilities. At BBCIncorp, our expert team is honored to offer our practical help with any of your questions.

Don’t hesitate to reach out for more information via service@bbcincorp.com or simply start chatting with BBCIncorp at the chatbox below. We look forward to hearing from you!