Tax implications of each sale type
Asset sales and share sales are taxed differently.
In an asset sale, each asset may be taxed based on its individual value.
In a share sale, the seller typically realizes a capital gain on the proceeds and may qualify for a capital gains deduction if the shares meet the conditions for qualified small business corporation shares.
Tax rules vary by province and personal circumstances, so it's a good idea to speak with a tax professional before choosing a sale structure. For general guidance, the Canada Revenue Agency provides information on the tax steps involved in selling a business.
What to include in a Business Purchase Agreement
A complete agreement covers everything from party details to protective clauses. Here are some key components to consider including:
- Parties and business details: Buyer and seller information, business name, location, and structure (corporation or unincorporated).
- Assets included and excluded (asset sale): Assets included in the sale can be inventory, equipment, goodwill, trademarks, contracts, etc., while items like cash, receivables, and securities can be excluded.
- Purchase price and payment terms: Closing date, deposit, and payment method (lump sum, Promissory Note, or a combination).
- Representations and warranties: Standard and additional guarantees made by each party, plus proof options such as an officer certificate or legal opinion.
- Conditions precedent: Obligations each party must fulfill before the deal closes.
- Protective clauses: Optional clauses such as confidentiality, non-competition, and non-solicitation.
- Environmental compliance: Statement confirming the business isn't in breach of environmental laws.
- Employees and liabilities: Whether the buyer will hire existing employees or assume any of the seller's liabilities.
How to price shares and assets
Pricing depends on whether you're selling shares or assets.
For a share sale, set out the total purchase price of all the shares. The total purchase price can be determined in two ways:
- Aggregate purchase price: the total amount paid for all shares combined.
- Per share purchase price: a single share price multiplied by the total number of shares.
For asset sales, each asset should generally be assigned its own value, even if the buyer is purchasing everything. Individual asset pricing matters for tax reporting, as some assets may be subject to tax in certain jurisdictions. The Canada Revenue Agency (CRA) outlines how to determine fair market value for business assets.
If the buyer is hiring existing employees, the seller may need to handle final payroll obligations. If the buyer does not hire some or all existing employees, the seller may have additional obligations. The CRA also provides guidance on payroll deductions when a business changes hands.
How to write a Business Purchase Agreement
You can create a Business Purchase Agreement in six steps using LawDepot's questionnaire:
- Choose the sale type and location: Select whether it's a sale of assets or shares, the industry, and the province or territory to help tailor the agreement to your situation..
- Add the business and party details: Enter the business name, structure, and nature of operations, then identify the buyer and seller (individual or corporation).
- List the assets (if applicable): For a sale of assets, select which assets are included in the sale and note any that are excluded.
- Set the payment terms: Choose the closing date, purchase price, deposit, and payment method (lump sum, Promissory Note or both).
- Outline the terms of the sale: Indicate whether the buyer will assume any liabilities or hire existing employees, and add optional clauses (confidentiality, non-competition, non-solicitation, environmental compliance), additional representations, and conditions precedent.
- Review and sign: Decide whether to have the agreement witnessed, then review, sign, and distribute copies to all parties.
Before starting the questionnaire, it can also help to have a Letter of Intent or Business Plan in place to guide the terms of your Business Purchase Agreement.
Common mistakes to avoid when creating a Business Purchase Agreement
Even a well-drafted agreement can run into problems if key details are overlooked. Watch out for these common mistakes:
- Rushing due diligence: Failing to review financials, contracts, or liabilities before signing can lead to costly surprises after closing.
- Vague asset descriptions: Listing assets in general terms makes it harder to prove what was included in the sale. Be specific about equipment, inventory, intellectual property, and other assets.
- Missing conditions precedent: Skipping required conditions (such as regulatory approvals or third-party consents) can delay or void the deal.
- Overlooking employee obligations: Failing to address employee retention can create legal and financial issues for both parties.
- Ignoring non-competition terms: Without a non-compete clause, the seller could start a competing business shortly after closing.
LawDepot's Business Purchase Agreement template and step-by-step questionnaire can help you avoid these pitfalls by prompting you to identify the specific assets being sold, set clear conditions precedent, and address employees and liabilities — all in one guided process.
Business Purchase Agreement FAQs