Some of the differences between general partners and limited partners are:\ There can be no more than 100 limited partners in a partnership, and there must be at least one general partner to run the business. The limited partners have limited liability, while the general partner has unlimited liability.\ The tax year of the general partners, as the majority owners, determines the required tax year of the partnership business. The limited partners are not factored into this determination due to their limited liability, since they are not subject to SE tax.\ General partners have unlimited liability, while limited partners are only liable up to their investment in the entity. General partners are usually actively participating in running the business and creating the revenue with a profit motive.\ General partners are responsible for the debts of the business up to their percentage of ownership in the partnership. Limited partners are not liable for any of the debt. General partners may not be paid a salary, only a guaranteed payment, but limited partners can be employees of the partnership.