What happens to a business when the owner dies?

A practical valuation answer

For estate and succession matters, valuation helps set a fair and supportable number for tax planning, inheritance issues, and family decision-making. The right answer depends on the valuation date, the ownership being transferred, and how the business will continue after the transition.

For this type of engagement, the analysis usually focuses on the valuation date, ownership structure and tax context, and how the business will be transitioned or funded. That is how the answer moves from a generic opinion to a defensible valuation conclusion that fits the facts.

Core valuation checklist

• Confirm the valuation purpose, date, and standard of value before starting.
• Collect the records that matter most: financial statements, tax returns, ownership documents, contracts, and any relevant legal or tax materials.
• Analyze the valuation date, ownership structure and tax context, and how the business will be transitioned or funded.
• Document assumptions clearly so the conclusion can be explained to buyers, advisors, counterparties, or the court if needed.