Small Business

How do I transfer my small business to my children without triggering huge tax bills?

Business owners can use several strategies to minimize taxes when transferring to family members. You can gift business interests annually up to $19,000 per recipient without triggering gift taxes. For larger transfers, consider a grantor retained annuity trust (GRAT) or installment sale to family members. Many owners also use buy-sell agreements with life insurance to fund the transfer. The key is starting early - these strategies work best when your business value is still growing rather than at its peak.