• Assist with selling your business
• Obtain financing from a lender for the purchase of a business
• Plan for a merger, acquisition or stock offering
• Develop an estate or tax plan to protect your wealth
• Create a succession plan
• Determine the value of assets and liabilities for a divorce settlement
• Assist attorneys in litigation
• File an insurance claim
• Set up an Employee Stock Ownership Plan (ESOP)

Whatever its purpose, valuation is a widely used discipline that can play a key role in helping you achieve your financial goals.  Business valuation professionals can give you the answer.  Business valuation is a complex process requiring broad knowledge of accounting, finance, economics and business, expert application of recognized valuation methodologies, and diligent adherence to professional standards. When expert valuation services are needed, consider a Certified Public Accountant with the Business Valuation Accreditation.  This valuation professional will be recongnized with the CPA/ABV mark of excellence.  More details are at http://fvs.aicpa.org/

When selecting a business valuation professional, it is important to understand the likelihood of litigation.  Should the project be on a litigation path, such as with family law or shareholder disputes, select a valuation professional with litigation experience.  Sometimes, disputes that appear to be valuation matters are actually Lost Profits matters, requrirng an entirely different process well founded in case law.  See the realted article on Lost Profits, and make sure your business valuation professional understands the engagement.