Do you own a business that has appreciated in value and you are thinking about making an exit plan? For many Americans who own a business, this is a substantial part of their financial future and it may be the time to realize this value in cash. As the economy gets better, more people are looking to buy businesses than ever. 

Those individuals with investment capital are looking for good investments instead of the stock market or in conjunction to their stock market plan. However, bear in mind that you have a shadow partner in selling your business; the government, which is ready to take a cut of your sale proceeds as a tax. While an individual business owner can be at a disadvantage in terms of taxes, the organized philanthropy industry has plenty of ability to protect tax advantages.

Saving federal taxes on the sale of a business without any conflict from the government means it necessary to use a charitable tax planning structure. For those individuals who have excess income charitable trust have income tax and estate planning value. Putting together a private charitable foundation can enable you to pass on large amounts of business interest or property while getting an income tax deduction and avoiding the estate tax. Furthermore, you can effectively keep control of the property that has been donated. One great example is the Gates Foundation. For investors and business owners who want to receive the tax benefits as well as a continuing income, the alternative planning structures put together by an experienced attorney are necessary.