What is an earn-out?

Category: Buying a Business

An earn-out is a transaction structure in which a portion of the purchase price is paid over time based on the future performance of the business or other agreed-upon milestones.

Depending on the circumstances, earn-outs may help bridge differences between buyer and seller expectations while encouraging a successful transition.

Because earn-outs involve negotiated legal and financial terms, buyers should seek appropriate professional guidance before entering into these arrangements.