If you are looking to buy or sell a business in Ontario, you may be wondering how the lifetime capital gains exemption can impact the transaction. In this blog post, we will explore what the lifetime capital gains exemption is, how it relates to business purchase and sales, and why it is important to speak to a Toronto lawyer about this.
What is the Lifetime Capital Gains Exemption?
The lifetime capital gains exemption is a tax benefit available to Canadian taxpayers on the sale of certain types of assets, including qualified small business corporation (QSBC) shares and qualified farm or fishing property. The exemption allows taxpayers to shelter a portion of the capital gain from taxation, up to a lifetime limit.
In Ontario, the lifetime capital gains exemption for QSBC shares is $892,218 (as of 2023), which means that a taxpayer can shelter up to $892,218 of capital gains from taxation on the sale of qualified small business corporation shares.
How Does the Lifetime Capital Gains Exemption Relate to Business Purchase and Sales?
The lifetime capital gains exemption can be a significant factor in business purchase and sales. For example, if you are a business owner looking to sell your business, you may be able to take advantage of the lifetime capital gains exemption to reduce the amount of tax you owe on the sale.
On the other hand, if you are looking to buy a business, you may want to consider the availability of the lifetime capital gains exemption when determining the purchase price. A business that is eligible for the exemption may be worth more to a buyer, as the buyer will be able to shelter a portion of the capital gain from taxation.
It is important to note that in order for the lifetime capital gains exemption to be available, the shares being sold must be QSBC shares. In Ontario, this means that the shares must meet certain criteria, such as being held for at least two years and meeting certain asset and income tests.
Why Speak to a Toronto Lawyer About the Lifetime Capital Gains Exemption?
If you are considering a business purchase or sale in Ontario, it is important to speak to a Toronto lawyer about the lifetime capital gains exemption. A lawyer can help you understand the eligibility criteria for the exemption and can advise you on how to structure the transaction to take advantage of the exemption.
Additionally, a lawyer can help you navigate the complex tax implications of the transaction and can ensure that all necessary documentation is in place to protect your interests. This can help to ensure that the transaction is completed in a legally sound and tax-efficient manner.
Conclusion
The lifetime capital gains exemption can be a valuable tax benefit for business owners in Ontario. By speaking to a Toronto lawyer about the exemption, you can ensure that you understand the eligibility criteria and can structure the transaction to take advantage of the exemption. This can help to reduce the amount of tax owed on the sale and can make the transaction more attractive to potential buyers. If you have any questions, please contact us at info@falconlawyers.ca.
