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Question

What is the difference between an asset sale and a stock sale?

Answer

In an asset sale, the buyer purchases individual assets of the business, which can result in different tax treatments for the seller and often includes higher ordinary income taxes. In a stock sale, the buyer purchases the owner’s shares, typically allowing the seller to be taxed at more favorable capital gains rates.

Related FAQs

What happens to my stock options if I quit or get fired?

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What happens after the deal closes?
Work & Business Small Business Asset Protection Business Owners Women Business Owners Selling a Business FAQs
Last Updated June 24, 2026
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