There are many misconceptions about ESOPs today, sometimes in the business press, and sometimes by professionals from various fields.  With all this misinformation and misconceptions about ESOPs, it can be difficult – if not impossible – for the average business…

Introduction Last month, we examined the selection of which entity to choose based on the perspective of the proprietor through the lens of the Limited Liability Company.  To recap last month’s conclusion: Limited Liability Companies are becoming more popular.  This…

More and more business owners are asking me that question these days.  Given the recent performance of the US economy and stock market, it’s a very fair question. My answer is generally in two parts.  First, for most business owners,…

Introduction For the closely-held business, choosing a business entity under which to operate used to be easy. The proprietor usually operated as a sole proprietorship, a partnership, or as an S Corporation.  There were clear advantages and disadvantages to each…

Introduction So far at least, the consensus is that the economy will be relatively stable in 2015.   With an average of 200,000 jobs being created each of the last 6 months and most economic indicators showing positives, next year should…

When you’re selling your business, an important step in the process is receiving a letter of intent (LOI) from a qualified buyer.   The terms of an LOI can still be negotiated, but once signed by both parties, it’s a little…