Get All Access for $5/mo

3 Things to Know About Going Into Business With a Partner (60-Second Video) What to consider before teaming up with a partner.

By Diana Falzone

Opinions expressed by Entrepreneur contributors are their own.

Going into a business with a partner? Here are key things a partnership agreement should have to ensure smooth sailing.

1. Determine how ownership interest will be shared. It's not always split evenly down the middle, so be sure ownership and authority proportions are stated clearly in the agreement.

Related: Everything You Need to Know About Business Partnerships

2. Establish how decisions will be made. If you own the business 50-50, there's a possibility of a deadlock. To avoid this, some businesses set up a trusted associate who may own 1 percent of the business and whose vote can break a tie.

3. If one of you wants to withdraw, how will a buyout price be determined? Agree in advance that a neutral third party, like your banker, will find an appraiser to determine a fair price.

Watch more 3 Things to Know videos here

Diana Falzone

Journalist

Diana Falzone is a journalist. She is an anchor for Bold TV. Previously, she was a reporter for Fox News Channel and a talk show host for SiriusXM Radio.

Want to be an Entrepreneur Leadership Network contributor? Apply now to join.

More from Entrepreneur Exclusives

3 Simple Ways to Boost E-Commerce Sales

Why Your First 1,000 Customers Are Your Most Important

How to Grow Your Business By Finding New Customers

How to Beat The Working From Home Blues (60-Second Video)

Editor's Pick

Starting a Business

He Started a Business That Surpassed $100 Million in Under 3 Years: 'Consistent Revenue Right Out of the Gate'

Ryan Close, founder and CEO of Bartesian, had run a few small businesses on the side — but none of them excited him as much as the idea for a home cocktail machine.

Business News

Looking for a Remote Job? Here Are the Most In-Demand Skills to Have on Your Resume, According to Employers.

Employers are looking for interpersonal skills like teamwork as well as specific coding skills.

Business Ideas

63 Small Business Ideas to Start in 2024

We put together a list of the best, most profitable small business ideas for entrepreneurs to pursue in 2024.

Business Solutions

Get Down to Business with Lifetime Access to Microsoft Office 2021 for Mac for 70% Off

Unlock essential Office tools with a one-time purchase — ideal for entrepreneurs and professionals looking to streamline their workflow.

Business News

'Do You Sell Cars?': Tesla CEO Elon Musk Trolls Jaguar Rebrand on X

The team running Jaguar's X account was working hard on social media this week.

Franchise

The Top 10 Coffee Franchises in 2024

From a classic cup of joe to a creamy latte, grab your favorite mug and get ready to brew up success with the best coffee franchises.