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Family farms are at the heart of Kansas' agricultural heritage, representing not only a livelihood but also a legacy passed down across generations. While opportunities are as vast as the land, the interplay between family dynamics and business operations can often present complex challenges in estate planning. Poorly executed plans can result in family discord and even the sale of land. To prevent this, it is crucial to invest in a comprehensive, well-crafted estate plan.
As a landowner in Kansas, it is critical to have an estate plan that covers everything from succession planning to tax strategies to buy-sell agreements. Here we review each in greater detail.
Succession Planning: More Than a Handover
Some children stay on the farm working for and with their parents for decades—they often transition from hired hands to valuable partners contributing to the family’s success. Some children move away and find success outside of the family business, which is OK too. Regardless, effective farm succession planning involves more than just dividing the assets equally among the children. In fact, that strategy is generally very damaging to the farm. A good plan requires open and clear communication between all stakeholders, recognizing and reconciling differing expectations and ensuring fairness without necessarily aiming for equality. This means not all heirs necessarily receive an equal share of the farm, but rather, the plan is equitable considering their contributions and future roles.
Estate Tax Planning: Avoid Forced Land Sales
High asset values of agricultural estates can often trigger significant estate taxes. If ill-prepared, families may have to sell parts of the land to cover these expenses, fracturing the farm and the family alike. Strategic use of estate tax exemptions and employing tools like trusts and life insurance can help minimize these tax liabilities.
A good estate planner will offer several tools that serve to transfer wealth while maintaining control of the farm and potentially reducing estate taxes.
Buy-Sell Agreements: Keeping the Farm in the Family
If you are partnered with children or siblings, one of the most overlooked components of farm and ranch estate planning is the buy-sell agreement. These agreements determine what happens if a co-owner exits the business or passes away unexpectedly. Without them, surviving owners may be forced into business with unsuitable partners, or land may have to be sold to settle the estate. A well-drafted buy-sell agreement can ensure the farm stays within the family and operations continue smoothly.
Why It Matters
In an era where family farms face immense pressure from various fronts, protecting your agricultural legacy is more important than ever. While estate plans require difficult and sensitive conversations, the cost of not having them can be the loss of the farm and the fracturing of family relationships.
How Kennedy Berkley Can Help
As Kansas attorneys focused on complex estate planning for farmers and ranchers, our role is to help clients navigate these challenges and secure their farm for future generations. By understanding the unique circumstances faced by farmers and ranchers, our team can craft an estate plan that protects legacies, provides for the family, and ensures the continuity of operation.
To learn more about how an estate plan can to safeguard your farm or ranch, please contact Jim Angell at jangell@kenberk.com or (785) 825-4674.
This article is for general informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Please consult with a professional for tailored legal advice.