How can I transfer assets from one of my corporations to another?

By Ryan Himmel

Opinions expressed by Entrepreneur contributors are their own.

Is this possible? What's the best way to do this?
This is a tough question to answer without having much context. Additional information that I would still need to know is:

1. The purpose of the transfer
2. The specific type of entities involved
3. The financial condition of the entities (i.e. debt and asset levels)
4. The consideration for transfer, if any

Let's take a look at the purpose of the transfer. Why exactly are you thinking of transferring assets from one company you already own to another one you own? This is an important question to ask as this type of action can lead to significant legal and tax consequences if done improperly.

How to properly handle the transfer is somewhat dependent on the specific entities involved. Each entity is a separate legal entity and needs to be treated as such to avoid having the assets and liabilities of the entities from being treated as the same.

The financial condition of the entities is also an important factor to consider. If the company you would like to transfer assets out of is facing bankruptcy or dissolution, a transfer could be viewed as a way of hindering the collection claims process of the creditors.

Will the company receiving the assets be providing any sort of consideration (i.e. payment) for the new assets received? If you have other shareholders or members involved in the company then they will likely want to be compensated for any transfer.

As you can see, I just highlighted a few of the many factors that you need to consider when making this decision. As such, I highly recommend that you consult with a CPA and a tax lawyer given the potential tax and legal consequences for moving forward.
Wavy Line
Ryan Himmel

Head of Financial Partnerships, Xero Americas

Ryan Himmel is a CPA and financial technology executive who has dedicated over a decade of his work toward providing solutions to help accountants and small-business owners better run their firms. Himmel currently leads financial partnerships in the Americas for Xero.

Editor's Pick

She's Been Coding Since Age 7 and Presented Her Life-Saving App to Tim Cook Last Year. Now 17, She's on Track to Solve Even Bigger Problems.
Lock
I Helped Grow 4 Unicorns Over 10 Years That Generated $18 Billion in Online Revenues. Here's What I've Learned.
Lock
Want to Break Bad Habits and Supercharge Your Business? Use This Technique.
Lock
Don't Have Any Clients But Need Customer Testimonials? Follow These 3 Tricks To Boost Your Rep.
Why Are Some Wines More Expensive Than Others? A Top Winemaker Gives a Full-Bodied Explanation.

Related Topics

Legal

How You Structure Your Business to the IRS Can Affect More Than Your Tax Bill. Here's What You Need to Know.

From startup to going public, the business formation structure you choose affects your company in many ways, including how you file your taxes and how much you owe the IRS.

Devices

Score a Refurbished, Grade-A iPad Mini and Free Headphones for Just $99.99

Take advantage of this amazing price just in time for summer.

Leadership

The Real Reason Why The Return to Office Movement is Failing is Revealed in New Study

There is a vivid sign of the disconnect between employees and their workplace, a glaring indication that companies need to revise their scripts to improve their hybrid and remote work policies.

Growing a Business

Subscribers Exclusive Event: Discover How These 2 Founders Turned Their Side Hustle into a Million-Dollar Lifestyle Brand

Learn how you can transform your personal brand into a thriving business empire with co-founders of The Skinny Confidential

Leadership

3 Mundane Tasks You Should Automate to Save Your Brain for the Big Stuff

Automation is one way to cut through the noise: daily check-ins, circle-backs, status updates, etc. — and leave mental space for the big stuff.

Devices

Take Your Social Media Earning Potential Sky-High With This $79.97 Quadcopter

Get this beginner-friendly drone for a great price for Father's Day.