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Small Business Sale Agreement Template for United States

A legally binding agreement governed by U.S. law that facilitates the transfer of ownership of a small business from a seller to a buyer. This comprehensive document outlines the terms and conditions of the sale, including purchase price, payment terms, assets or shares being transferred, representations and warranties, and closing conditions. It provides legal protection for both parties and ensures compliance with federal and state regulations governing business transfers.

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What is a Small Business Sale Agreement?

The Small Business Sale Agreement is a crucial document used when transferring ownership of a small business in the United States. It's particularly relevant for transactions involving businesses with annual revenues typically under $5 million. This agreement covers all aspects of the sale, including asset transfer, employee transitions, intellectual property rights, and ongoing obligations. It must comply with both federal regulations and state-specific business transfer laws. The document is essential for protecting both parties' interests and ensuring a smooth ownership transition. It's commonly used in situations ranging from retirement sales to strategic acquisitions.

What sections should be included in a Small Business Sale Agreement?

1. Parties: Identification and details of the buyer and seller

2. Background: Context of the sale and brief description of the business

3. Definitions: Key terms used throughout the agreement

4. Purchase Price and Payment Terms: Details of consideration and payment structure

5. Assets/Shares Being Sold: Specific description of what is being transferred

6. Closing Conditions: Requirements that must be met before sale completion

7. Representations and Warranties: Statements of fact and assurances from both parties

8. Covenants: Ongoing promises and obligations of the parties

9. Indemnification: Protection against losses and liabilities

10. Termination: Circumstances under which the agreement can be terminated

11. General Provisions: Miscellaneous legal provisions including governing law, notices, and amendments

What sections are optional to include in a Small Business Sale Agreement?

1. Employee Matters: Terms regarding staff transition and employment arrangements - used when employees are being transferred with the business

2. Intellectual Property: Terms regarding IP transfer and protection - used when the business owns significant IP assets

3. Real Estate: Terms regarding property transfer - used when real estate is included in the sale

4. Environmental Matters: Environmental compliance and liabilities - used when the business has potential environmental impacts

5. Non-Competition: Restrictions on seller's future business activities - used when protecting the business's competitive position is crucial

What schedules should be included in a Small Business Sale Agreement?

1. Schedule A - Asset Schedule: Detailed list of all assets included in the sale

2. Schedule B - Inventory List: Current inventory being transferred

3. Schedule C - Equipment List: Detailed list of equipment included in sale

4. Schedule D - Contracts Schedule: List of contracts being assigned/transferred

5. Schedule E - Employee Schedule: List of employees and their key terms of employment

6. Schedule F - Intellectual Property Schedule: List of all IP assets being transferred

7. Schedule G - Due Diligence Checklist: Comprehensive list of documents reviewed

8. Schedule H - Assumed Liabilities: Detailed list of liabilities being assumed by the buyer

Authors

Alex Denne

Head of Growth (Open Source Law) @ Ƶ | 3 x UCL-Certified in Contract Law & Drafting | 4+ Years Managing 1M+ Legal Documents

Jurisdiction

United States

Publisher

Ƶ

Sector

Sales

Cost

Free to use

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