For most people, the dream of retirement involves leaving the workforce behind, enjoying the fruits of their labor, and perhaps spending more time with family and hobbies. However, for those who start or inherit a family business, retirement isn’t just about stepping away from a job; it involves navigating a complex web of personal and professional relationships. The transition from running a business to retiring can be both a source of pride and a significant challenge, particularly when it comes to planning for the next generation.

Family businesses play a crucial role in the American economy, employing close to 60 percent of the nation’s workforce. According to research by the University of North Carolina at Charlotte and Kennesaw State University, in collaboration with Family Enterprise USA, there are as many as 32 million family businesses in the country. These enterprises are often seen as the epitome of entrepreneurial success, with the ultimate goal being to pass the business on to children or other family members. However, despite the importance of succession planning, a 2021 survey by PwC found that only about a third of family-owned businesses have a succession plan in place link to survey.

Succession planning is more than just transferring ownership from one generation to the next; it’s about ensuring the business continues to thrive and that family relationships remain intact. Without a clear succession plan, the transition can be fraught with difficulties, including conflicts among family members, loss of business value, and financial instability for the retiring generation.

Steve Zimmerman, co-founder of Mindful Asset Planning, notes that it’s common for business owners to underestimate the time and effort required for a successful generational transition. He explains that family businesses come in many forms—S corporations, LLCs, partnerships, and other corporate structures—and the process of transferring ownership and control can be complex. This complexity underscores the importance of starting the succession planning process early and revisiting it regularly.

Several apps and tools can assist family business owners in navigating the complexities of succession planning and ensuring a smooth transition to retirement. Here are some of the top apps that can help:

Specifically designed for family businesses, Succession Wizard assists in creating detailed succession plans. It provides templates and guides to help business owners transfer ownership and control effectively, ensuring the longevity of the business.

While Everplans is not exclusively for family businesses, it is an invaluable tool for organizing essential documents and creating digital wills. It ensures that all necessary information is in place for a smooth transition, both for the business and personal matters.

This app simplifies estate planning by helping users create legally valid wills and trusts. It’s particularly useful for family business owners who want to ensure their assets, including business interests, are distributed according to their wishes.

The stakes are too high to leave succession planning to chance. Without a clear plan, the business that you’ve worked so hard to build could face unnecessary challenges, and the financial future of your loved ones could be at risk. Starting early, seeking professional advice, and utilizing the right tools are essential steps to ensure a smooth transition.

Are you involved in a family business, or do you know someone who is? What challenges have you faced in succession planning? Share your experiences and questions with our community on the Age Brilliantly Forum, where we discuss strategies to secure a fulfilling retirement and successful generational transitions.