In Mexico, the Partnership Agreement is often perceived in business environments as a simple and flexible structure, which has contributed to its frequent use. Many consider it a “quick” and “inexpensive” alternative to the incorporation of a company. It is essential to understand the true nature of a Partnership Agreement, how it differs from a corporation and how it should be properly managed from a legal and tax perspective.
In this context, it is important to point out that the Partnership Agreement is not a corporation, but a contractual figure regulated by the General Law of Commercial Companies, with its own characteristics and obligations that clearly distinguish it from any legal entity.
- A Non-Corporate Contractual Structure
The Partnership Agreement is enacted in Articles 252 to 259 of the General Law of Commercial Companies and unlike a Corporation or Limited Liability Company, the Partnership Agreement is not considered – in corporate terms – as a legal entity, that is to say, it does not have its own legal existence as a company. It is a contract by means of which one person (“the Managing Partner”) allows one or others (“Silent Partners”) to participate in profits or losses of a commercial operation in exchange for contributions.
This implies that:
- There is no corporate name or capital stock.
- There are no meetings or governing board.
- The managing partner acts before third parties and assumes representation.
From a corporate point of view, the Partnership Agreement offers agility and low formal cost, but it also requires a solid contract that protects the parties and precisely establishes the rules of the relationship.
- The Partnership Agreement Myth
There is a recurrent and erroneous perception that the Partnership Agreement can be used as a substitute mechanism for a business corporation, particularly structures such as the Limited Company or the Limited Liability Company (LLC). This interpretation, although common, is legally incorrect and may generate relevant contingencies.
The reality is that the Partnership Agreement does not generate legal personality or independent patrimony, therefore, it cannot open bank accounts in its name or enter into contracts directly; everything is done by the associating party.
In a commercial partnership, the partners have corporate rights, decisions are taken at meetings and the partnership is liable with its own assets. In a Partnership Agreement, the partners do not intervene in the management or appear before third parties; their protection depends exclusively on the quality of the contract.
- The Tax Treatment: Personality for the Tax Administration Service (SAT)
Although the Partnership Agreement is not considered a legal entity in terms of the General Law of Commercial Companies for tax purposes it is considered a legal entity.
The Federal Tax Code (art. 17 B) establishes that when a Partnership Agreement performs business activities in Mexico, it is considered a legal entity for the SAT, which implies:
– Registration in the Federal Taxpayer Registry (RFC).
– Electronic accounting and issuance of CFDI.
– ISR and VAT returns.
– Tax obligations comparable to those of any corporation.
The Managing Partner acts as tax representative and is responsible for tax obligations. The Silent Partners may be jointly and severally liable up to the limit of their contribution (Art. 26 Fracc. XVII Federal Tax Code).
The Partnership Agreement is attractive because of its flexibility, confidentiality and low formal cost. But its success depends on an impeccable contractual structure and proper tax planning.
A poorly designed contract or poor tax management can lead to disputes, financial losses and considerable tax penalties.
In practice, the correct implementation of a Partnership Agreement requires special care in three fundamental aspects. The first is to precisely define the contributions of each party, as well as the criteria for calculating and distributing profits and losses. The second is to establish clear and periodic accountability mechanisms, together with transparent rules for the liquidation or early termination of the contract. Lastly, it is essential to ensure strict compliance with tax obligations, since a failure to do so could compromise the viability of the project and generate equity liabilities for both the partner and the associates.
- Conclusion
The Partnership Agreement can be a useful tool for specific projects, strategic collaborations or temporary investments. However, it is not a substitute for a corporation and does not offer the same protections. Well structured, it can function as an efficient structure; poorly planned, it can represent a focus of legal and tax risk.
At VAHG, our lawyers have extensive experience in advising companies, investors and entrepreneurs in the incorporation and structuring of partnership agreements and corporations, providing solutions that maximize business opportunities and minimize legal risks. Our lawyers will analyze the legal structure that best suits your objectives, ensuring regulatory and tax compliance, which will be reflected in the protection of your investment and interests.
Elvia Ríos Saldaña | Partner
+52 (33) 38171731 Ext 228 | erios@vahg.mx
| Luis Andrés Estrada Intriago | Senior Associate
+52 (33) 38171731 Ext 224 | lestrada@vahg.mx |
Juan Manuel Méndez Sánchez | Associate
+52 (33) 38171731 Ext 233 | jmmendez@vahg.mx |
**The publication of this document does not constitute legal, accounting or professional advice of any kind, nor is it intended to be applicable to particular cases. This document only refers to laws applicable in Mexico.










