What are the steps I need to take to form a legal partnership in Texas?

To form a legal partnership in Texas, follow the steps below:

1. Choose a Name: First, choose a name for your partnership. Make sure that the name you choose is not already in use by another business entity in Texas.
2. Draft a Partnership Agreement: A Partnership Agreement is a written contract that outlines the terms of the partnership, such as the capital contribution, profit/loss sharing, management structure, voting rights, etc. This agreement is not required by law, but it is highly recommended to avoid any potential disputes in the future.
3. File a Certificate of Formation: You must file a Certificate of Formation with the Texas Secretary of State's office. The certificate can be filed online, and it should include the partnership's name, purpose, address, and the name and address of the registered agent.
4. Obtain EIN from the IRS: Even if your partnership does not have employees, you will need to obtain an Employer Identification Number (EIN) from the Internal Revenue Service. This number is used to file taxes and open bank accounts.
5. Register for State Taxes: Depending on the nature of your business, you may need to register for Texas Sales and Use Tax, Texas Franchise Tax, or other state taxes.
6. Obtain Permits and Licenses: Depending on the type of business you are engaged in, you may need to obtain specific permits and licenses from the state or local governments.
7. Comply with Other Requirements: Depending on the nature of your business, there may be other legal obligations you need to comply with, such as labor laws, environmental laws, etc.

Overall, forming a partnership in Texas is a relatively straightforward process. However, it is important to ensure that you comply with all the legal requirements, and seek legal advice if you have any doubts or questions. Additionally, it is highly recommended to create a Partnership Agreement to avoid any potential disputes between partners in the future.