Picture this: after years of running a successful business together, you and your business partner are now at a crossroads. It’s time to part ways. Buying out your partner’s share of the business seems like the right move, but navigating the complexities of financing such a transaction can feel overwhelming.
Enter the SBA 7(a) loan program. Thanks to updates made in 2018, securing funding for partner buyouts has never been more straightforward. This blog will guide you through why an SBA loan might be the perfect fit for your situation, how it works, and the benefits it offers to sellers and buyers alike.
The Evolution of SBA Loans for Partner Buyouts
To understand the advantages of SBA loan programs, it’s helpful to take a step back and examine how the rules used to work.
Before 2018, financing a business partner buyout through an SBA 7(a) loan was a challenging process. The key hurdle was the equity requirement. Under the old rules, the business would need at least 10% equity in its balance sheet after the buyout transaction. Unfortunately, most buyouts involved stock purchases, which didn’t meet the equity requirement.
This meant buyers often had to inject personal funds into the transaction to meet the equity threshold. It was a significant obstacle for many entrepreneurs and often made SBA loans less viable for partner buyouts.
What Changed in 2018?
The Small Business Administration revised its rules in April 2018 to simplify the process. The updated criteria eliminated the need for an equity injection if two key conditions are met:
- The buying partner has been actively involved in the business and has held a consistent or higher ownership share for at least two years.
- The business’s debt-to-net-worth ratio is at or below nine to one at the end of the fiscal year and the most recent reporting period.
By leveraging the equity of the balance sheet instead of requiring cash contributions, SBA loans became a game changer for partner buyouts.
What is the Debt-to-Net-Worth Ratio?
The debt-to-net-worth ratio is a financial metric that compares a business’s total liabilities to its total equity. To calculate it, divide the total liabilities by the total equity.
For example:
- Assets: $4,500,000
- Debt: $2,000,000
- Equity: $2,500,000
- Debt-to-Net-Worth Ratio: 0.80x
Since the ratio in this scenario is below nine to one, the buyer wouldn’t need to inject cash into the transaction. Instead, they can leverage the business’s balance sheet equity.
The Benefits of SBA Loans for Partner Buyouts
The revised SBA 7(a) loan program provides multiple benefits for both buyers and sellers involved in a business partner buyout:
1. Access to Affordable Capital
SBA loans are known for their favorable terms, including lower interest rates and longer repayment periods. This affordability makes it easier for buyers to fund the buyout without disrupting the financial stability of the business.
2. Removal of Cash Barriers
Under the updated rules, buyers no longer need to contribute personal funds if the debt-to-net-worth ratio requirement is met. This removes a significant barrier and opens up opportunities for entrepreneurs who may not have the liquidity to fund a buyout themselves.
3. Streamlined Transactions
The SBA provides a clear framework for partner buyouts, reducing the likelihood of drawn-out negotiations. Both parties can move forward swiftly, minimizing disruption to business operations.
4. Familiarity Reduces Risk
Because the buyer is already an active partner in the business, SBA lenders often view these transactions as lower-risk. This can make it easier to secure loan approval compared to transactions involving third-party buyers.
Key Considerations for SBA Partner Buyouts
While SBA loans simplify partner buyouts, there are still a few important guidelines to keep in mind:
- Sellers must exit the company: Once the buyout is complete, the selling partner cannot remain involved as an owner, officer, director, or employee. However, they can serve as a paid consultant for up to 12 months to ensure a smooth transition.
- A business plan is required: The SBA will need a detailed business plan that demonstrates how the company will benefit from the buyout. Ensure your plan is thorough and clearly outlines your vision for the business post-transaction.
Real-Life Example of a Partner Buyout
To better understand how SBA loans can work in a partner buyout scenario, consider the following example.
Arthur and Elizabeth have been co-owners of a successful manufacturing business for five years. However, they’re now divorcing, and Elizabeth wants to exit the company.
The business has $1,000,000 in assets and $325,000 in liabilities, resulting in a debt-to-net-worth ratio of 0.48. Because Arthur has been actively involved in the business and meets the ratio requirement, he can secure an SBA loan without needing a cash injection.
After negotiating the terms of the buyout and finalizing the SBA loan, Arthur becomes the sole owner of the business. Elizabeth receives her share of the company’s value and can move on, while Arthur takes full control of the business’s future.
Is an SBA Loan Right for Your Partner Buyout?
If you’re considering a business partner buyout, an SBA 7(a) loan can offer a practical and affordable solution. However, it’s essential to consult with professionals to ensure the transaction aligns with your goals and the SBA’s requirements.
Collaborating with experts such as CPAs or attorneys can help you develop a comprehensive business plan and evaluate your options. Additionally, working with an experienced SBA lender can simplify the process and help you secure funding.
At Aspen Business Funding, we specialize in SBA partner buyout financing. Whether you need assistance with valuations, structuring the agreement, or navigating the loan application process, our team is here to help. Contact us today to explore your options and take the next step toward securing your business’s future.