10/22/2026
If you want to sell your business, receiving the purchase price over time in an installment sale may allow you to spread your gain — and the related tax — over several years. The buyer typically makes a down payment and issues a note for the balance. Each principal payment generally includes a tax-free return of basis and taxable gain; interest on the note is taxed separately as ordinary income. This arrangement may also expand the pool of buyers or help you obtain a higher price. But depreciation recapture may be taxable upfront, and you assume the risk that the buyer won’t pay. Contact us at (704) 930-2984 to discuss the pros and cons and determine the optimal deal structure for your situation.