If you’re in the process of a merger or acquisition, it’s important that both parties report the transaction to the IRS in the same way. Otherwise, you could increase your chances of being audited. If a sale involves business assets (as opposed to stock or ownership interests), the buyer and the seller must generally report the purchase price allocations that both use for specific assets. This is done by attaching IRS Form 8594 to each of their federal income tax returns. Both parties use the same allocations. Consider requiring this in your asset purchase agreement at the time of the sale. To lock in the best postacquisition results, consult with us before finalizing any transaction.
Author: Jeff Lucke
Jeff Lucke, CPA, is the founder of Lucke & Associates, with an entrepreneurial background. Jeff has had ownership interests in businesses within several industries including automotive, construction, healthcare, telecommunications, and restaurants, as well as being active in real estate. As an owner of a growing CPA firm and other businesses, he has gained unique insights into the challenges and issues that face other growing businesses that most other CPAs do not have. This kind of knowledge ultimately benefits every one of the firm’s clients. He is very involved with clients and becomes deeply involved in their businesses and helping them succeed. Jeff is a graduate of the University of Nebraska and holds a Bachelor of Science in Accounting; his professional affiliations include the AICPA and KSCPA. Jeff currently serves a board member for his community on the Construction Financial Managers Association, the American Diabetes Association, and Big Brothers Big Sisters.
