Buy-sell agreements: Handle with care

Description

Abstract: If a person owns an interest in a family-owned or other closely held business, a buy-sell agreement should be a key component of his or her estate plan. These agreements specify whether — and under what circumstances — owners’ interests may be transferred, ensuring that the business stays in the family and meeting other important estate and succession planning goals. This article details the advantages and tax implications of a buy-sell agreement. It also includes a sidebar that explains the differences between a shareholder agreement and a buy-sell agreement.