The joint stock company and the partnership firm can be distinguished on the following points:-
1) on the basis of formation
partnership: It is formed by an agreement that is in written.
Joint stock: It is formed under the company ordinance.
2) On the basis of No. of members
Partnership: the no. of members can be minimum 2 and maximum 20 members.
Joint stock: it can have any no. of members those are called shareholders.
3)On the basis of liability
Partnership: the liabality of member partners are unlimited( if not mentioned in agreement).
Joint stock: the liability of members is limited(upto the value of the shares).
4) on the basis of Financing
Partnership: Members contribute the funds.
Joint stock: can borrow from bank and can issue paid up shares to get capital.
5) on the basis of tax payment
Partnership: members of registered firms need to pay tax individually.
Joint stock: the company is subject to double taxation.
6) On the basis of control
Partnership: decisions are made with the consultation with all members.
Joint stock: the decisions are made by board of directors.
7) on the basis of dissolution
Partnership: can be dissolved with mutual consent of the partners.
Joint stock: can be dissolved by numerous ways