A and B share profits in the ratio 3:2. The firm has a general reserve of ₹50,000, and a new partner C is admitted. What problem may arise if the reserve is not distributed among the old partners at the time of admission?

Correct answer: C may get an unfair share in the accumulated profits

A general reserve represents accumulated profits earned by the old partners in earlier years. Therefore, on admission, it should be distributed to A and B in their old profit-sharing ratio of 3:2. If it is not distributed, C may later receive a share in the reserve or profits arising from it, even though C did not earn those past profits. This would unfairly benefit the new partner at the expense of the old partners. Exam tip: On admission, a general reserve is transferred to the old partners’ capital accounts in their old ratio.