In a partnership, what is typically the basis for a partner's initial capital contribution?

In a partnership, a partner's initial capital contribution is typically determined by the fair market value of the property contributed at the time of the contribution. This fair market value reflects what the property would sell for on the open market, taking into consideration various factors such as demand, condition, and location.

Valuing a partner's contribution at fair market value is important for establishing the partner’s equity in the partnership and for allocating profits and losses fairly among partners. It aligns the contributions with the economic reality of what is being brought into the partnership, rather than just paper valuations or theoretical values.

Other options, such as the tax basis of the partner's assets or the book value of partnership assets, may not necessarily align with the fair market value at the time of contribution. Future expected cash flows relate to potential earnings from investments rather than the immediate capital injections into the partnership. This distinction ensures that each partner's investment is recognized appropriately, maintaining equitable treatment of all partners in the partnership.