Originally published in the New Hampshire Business Review,
July 2011
There are more than 10 million small business owners in
America. 70 percent of family owned businesses fail shortly
after the transition to the next generation. Often, family
discord, taxes, lack of liquidity or inexperienced management lead
to the business' demise.
A good business succession plan as part of a comprehensive estate plan is critical to help ensure future success for everyone whose efforts have helped the business grow. It emphasizes the owner's commitment to the business's long-term growth and instills confidence with family members and key employees.
A plan that will succeed requires a great deal of careful thought. First, obtaining an accurate valuation of the business is critical in identifying and assessing potential tax and liquidity issues. Next, are family members involved in the business? Remember that ownership succession is not management succession and they need to be considered independently. Some other key issues the owner must consider include: a) timing of planned succession – at retirement or at death; b) method of ownership transfer; c) payment for the owner's interest; d) partners and or family members as managers, and e) minimizing and paying capital gains and gift and estate taxes.
Start early. Developing and effective succession plan is a multi-phase process and each plan is unique. For example, the owner may need a formal Buy-Sell Agreement that prearranges the sale of the business interests to existing partners, key managers or others. Alternatively, a Family Limited Partnership or Limited Liability Company can assist in transferring the owner's business interest to family members. The use of a succession planning tools such as Grantor Retained Annuity Trust, a sale to an Intentionally Defective Grantor Trust or sale in exchange for a Self-Canceling Installment Note may also be effective in reducing the value of the business for estate tax or gift tax purposes.
The best plans involve the counsel of independent professionals including financial planners, accountants, bankers and your attorney. The more time you allow yourself for thoughtful planning and implementation, the greater the probability of achieving the outcome you seek for the business and for your family.
The content of this article is intended to provide a general guide to the subject matter. Specialist advice should be sought about your specific circumstances.