Costs for Succession Planning
Planning Fees Based on Business Complexity, Scope, and Long-Term Goals
Succession planning engagements vary depending on the complexity of the business, ownership structure, existing planning, and long-term transition objectives. Most Succession by Design planning engagements generally range from approximately $15,000 to $50,000 for the planning process itself.
The cost of planning should be measured against the risk of waiting too long to prepare.
Work Typically Includes
- Discovery and assessment
- Business valuation and financial independence analysis
- Succession and continuity planning
- Strategy development and implementation guidance
- Collaboration with attorneys, CPAs, and other advisors
- Ongoing planning sessions and long-term guidance
The scope of each engagement depends on factors such as business complexity, ownership structure, transition goals, and how much planning has already been addressed. The process begins with understanding the current state of the business, identifying areas of vulnerability or opportunity, and determining what will be required to support a successful future transition.
Succession by Design is not centered around producing a single report or recommendation. The work is focused on helping business owners think through complex decisions over time, prepare the business for future transition, and create greater readiness for both expected and unexpected change.
That preparation may involve ownership planning, continuity strategy, leadership considerations, business valuation, tax planning, or improving the overall transferability and long-term stability of the business itself. As priorities evolve, the planning evolves alongside them.
Erben Associates approaches succession planning from a practical, value-driven perspective. If the process does not ultimately create more value than it costs, planning fees are returned.
For many owners, the greatest risk is often postponing these conversations for too long. Transition decisions made under pressure or without preparation can limit options, reduce flexibility, and create unnecessary disruption for both the business and the family behind it.