Overview of Conversion Process and Tax Framework
Conversion from sole proprietorship to LLP enhances liability protection while retaining business continuity. Not direct “conversion” (single owner vs 2 partners min); involves forming LLP, transferring assets via contribution agreement.
Tax-neutral under Section 47(xiiib) if conditions met—no capital gains on asset transfer. Losses/depreciation carry-forward 8 years as LLP’s. No stamp duty on transfer deed (operation of law). 2026 stable; no amendments.
Requires new PAN/TAN; GST migration possible as “going concern.”
Capital Gains Tax Implications: Exemption u/s 47(xiiib)
Asset transfer (land, machinery, goodwill) from proprietor to LLP exempt if:
- All Assets/Liabilities Transfer: Complete going concern handover.
- Proprietor Becomes Partner: >90% profit share 5 years.
- No Dissolution/Partner Change: 5 years post-conversion.
- No Consideration: Only profit share, no cash/shares.
Non-Compliance: Deemed transfer at FMV; capital gains u/s 45 (LTCG 12.5%/20% indexed pre-Jul24).
Example: Machinery book Rs 10L, FMV Rs 20L → Exempt. Goodwill (self-generated) not taxed.
Carry Forward of Losses and Depreciation
Proprietor’s accumulated losses/unabsorbed depreciation deemed LLP’s previous year losses—carry-forward 8 years (u/s 32/72). Book losses not capital gains exempt.
Condition: Same business continued.
GST Implications: Seamless Transition
- New GSTIN: Fresh registration post-LLP formation (old proprietorship surrenders).
- ITC Transfer: Form GST ITC-02 (within 30 days notice); unutilized credit migrates if going concern.
- No Disruption: Supplies continue; update contracts.
Steps:
- LLP incorporation.
- Proprietorship GST cancellation (REG-16, post-dues).
- LLP GST REG-01 + ITC-02 approval.
PAN, TAN, and TDS Compliance Changes
- New PAN/TAN: LLP separate entity; apply post-incorporation.
- TDS Threshold: >INR 1Cr TO business/>50L profession (u/s 44AB audit trigger). Deduct TDS post-threshold (professional 10%, contractors 1-2%).
- Continuity: Old PAN closes; no carry-over dues.
Income Tax Return and Assessment
- ITR Transition: Final proprietorship ITR (up FY-end); LLP ITR-5 first.
- Audit: LLP >40L TO/25L contribution.
- Presumptive: LLP ineligible (partners taxed individually).
Corporate Tax and Other Benefits
- No DDT/MAT: LLP pass-through; partners taxed slabs (no 30% corporate).
- Partner Remuneration: Deductible u/s 40(b) (INR 3L/INR 20% profit).
- Interest on Capital: 12% max deductible.
Comparison Table:
| Aspect | Proprietorship | LLP |
|---|---|---|
| Tax Rate | Slab (Individual) | Pass-through |
| Losses | Carry forward up to 8 years | Carry forward up to 8 years |
| Liability | Unlimited | Limited |
Step-by-Step Tax Compliance Roadmap
- Pre-Conversion:
- Reconcile accounts, clear dues.
- Value assets (book value transfer).
- LLP Formation:
- FiLE FiLLiP-03 (name), RUN-LLP.
- 2+ partners (1 resident).
- Asset Transfer:
- Contribution deed (no stamp).
- Book entry LLP accounts.
- Registrations:
- PAN/TAN (30 days).
- GST REG-01 + ITC-02.
- Post-Conversion:
- First ITR-5 by Jul 31.
- Update banks/vendors.
Potential Tax Risks and Mitigation
- Deemed Dividend: Cash withdrawal → Taxable.
- Partner Change <5Yrs: Gains revive u/s 47A.
- Partial Transfer: Taxed portion.
Mitigate: Full transfer docs, 5-yr continuity.
Recent Judicial and CBIC Clarifications (2025-26)
- ITAT: Strict 47(xiiib) conditions; partial non-compliance taxes gains.
- CBIC: GST ITC-02 approval within 30 days if docs complete.
No 2026 amendments; stable regime.
Practical Case Study
Delhi trader (TO Rs 2Cr): Converted Jan 2026—assets Rs 50L transferred tax-free. Losses Rs 10L carried 8 yrs. GST ITC Rs 2L migrated. Partners drew remuneration deductible. [Hypo based on norms; ]
Compliance Checklist
| Task | Timeline | Form |
|---|---|---|
| LLP Incorporation | — | FiLLiP-06 |
| PAN / TAN | Within 30 Days | — |
| GST Migration | Within 30 Days | ITC-02 |
| Final Proprietorship ITR | 31 July | ITR-4 |
| LLP First Return | Next Financial Year | ITR-5 |
Advantages Beyond Tax
- Limited liability.
- Perpetual succession.
- Easier funding.
Planning Tips for 2026
Assess losses/assets pre-conversion. Tax Advisor coordination essential. Monitor thresholds.
Knowledge of Section 47 ensures smooth transition.
Contact +919034263307.
🌐 Visit: https://taxationlegaladvisor.in



