If the trend observed between 2015 and 2022 continues, we can expect 9,750 business transfers in Quebec in 2025 and just over 30,000 transfers over the next three years.. This crucial stage in a seller’s life deserves careful planning. Thoughtful retirement preparation not only ensures the continuity of their assets, but also allows them to approach this new chapter with peace of mind and confidence. For business owners, strategic retirement planning is the key to a successful transition. Both personally and financially.
This stage raises several fundamental questions that SME leaders must answer, such as:
- Is my corporate structure suited for a business transfer?
- How will I withdraw my assets once I’m retired?
- Is my investment portfolio tax-efficient for my retirement?
- How can I leverage insurance to protect my assets while planning my estate in a tax-efficient way?
These issues are at the heart of our November conference, where we will explore tax strategies to support entrepreneurs in this pivotal stage of their journey.
Concrete Strategies to Create Value
1. Rethinking the Corporate Structure
A well-designed business structure can make all the difference during a transfer. For example, creating a trust and integrating a holding company can separate personal assets from business assets, reduce risks, and simplify the transfer process. This structure can also provide the opportunity to benefit from the Lifetime Capital Gains Exemption (LCGE) and multiply it, a powerful tax lever to reduce taxes upon the sale.
2. Optimizing Withdrawal Strategies
Once in retirement, the way you withdraw funds directly impacts your tax bill. Deferring the Quebec Pension Plan (QPP) and Old Age Security (OAS), structuring withdrawals from RRSPs, TFSAs, non-registered accounts, and holding company accounts to smooth income, these are all tactics that help maximize net available income while preserving capital. The goal is clear: maintain a comfortable lifestyle without paying more tax than necessary.
3. Allocating Assets in a Tax-Efficient Way
Not all income is taxed the same way. A well-thought-out asset allocation strategy allows you to grow net worth while minimizing the tax impact.
4. Using Permanent Life Insurance as a Lever
Often underestimated, permanent life insurance can play a key role in estate planning. In addition to guaranteeing a death benefit, it offers valuable flexibility: it’s possible to borrow against the cash value without triggering immediate taxes, making it an effective financing tool in retirement. Moreover, it provides numerous tax advantages for asset accumulation and transfer to the next generation.
In Summary
For SME owners in Quebec, retirement isn’t just about closing the books and heading for the sun. Unlike employees, entrepreneurs must deal with complex issues: business transfer, taxation, estate planning, liquidity, and the sustainability of what they have built.
Too often, these questions are addressed late by business leaders, which limits options and increases risks. Conversely, proactive planning started several years in advance not only maximizes the value of the business, but also protects the interests of the family, employees, and partners.
Our conference at Stratégies PME in November will address these issues in depth, through concrete examples, practical tools, and expert advice. Whether you are 5 or 15 years away from retirement, it is never too early to start planning.
A text by Pascal Larivière
IG Private Wealth Management
