What is a "certificate of limited partnership"?

A "certificate of limited partnership" is a legal document that formally establishes a limited partnership in accordance with state laws. It typically includes essential information such as the name of the partnership, the names and addresses of the general and limited partners, and details about the partnership’s business purpose. This document must be filed with the appropriate state authority, which then recognizes the limited partnership as a valid legal entity. The creation of this document is crucial for protecting the limited partners, as it provides clarity on their status and the extent of their liability.

In contrast, while some of the other options address aspects related to partnerships, they do not encapsulate the foundational role of the certificate in creating a limited partnership. For instance, outlining partnership ownership or detailing contributions does not equate to the legal establishment that the certificate provides, and while tax forms or records might be necessary for operational purposes, they arise after the limited partnership has been officially recognized.