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Tim Hilligoss

Shareholder, Tax & Assurance

As a trusted advisor, Tim guides clients through business transactions, tax issues and international expansion.

What is your area of focus?

I’m focused on helping owners tackle the top financial, tax and operational issues impacting their bottom line. My expertise includes entity and organizational structure, US tax planning and compliance, and transactional services with a focus on tax efficient deal structuring, buy-sell side due diligence, Quality of Earnings studies and reorganizations. As a consultant for middle market companies, I help owners with their tax and accounting needs while providing guidance on business transactions. I also support the firm’s international practice by being a trusted advisor to Chinese companies expanding to the U.S.

How long have you been at Clayton & McKervey?

Since 2001

What is the favorite part about your job?

I enjoy meeting with clients and helping them improve their profitability through the introduction and implementation of innovative tax strategies.

Specializations

Federal and state tax saving strategies
Domestic and international tax structuring and compliance
Repatriation and transfer pricing strategies
Chinese currency controls
Transaction services and tax efficient deal structuring
Buy-side/sell-side due diligence
Quality of Earnings analysis
Business consulting and succession planning
Retirement plan design

Education

Master of Science in Taxation, Walsh College
Bachelor of Accountancy, Walsh College

Connections

Association for Corporate Growth
Michigan Economic Development Corporation
Asian Pacific American Chamber of Commerce
Detroit Chinese Business Association
Michigan China Innovation Center
PrimeGlobal

Articles by Tim Hilligoss

Transaction Support

Is Your Business Transaction-Ready?

Traditionally, due diligence is a buyer’s responsibility when an M&A transaction is on the horizon. Conventional wisdom and best practices support the idea that this is the buyer’s opportunity to discover in detail what they’re getting for their money. However, the due diligence process is also the seller’s opportunity to showcase the business in the most favorable light.

by Tim Hilligoss

August 3, 2022

Transaction Support

3 Business Valuation Considerations For Owners

A complete business valuation looks at all aspects of the business – things like the overall balance sheet picture, key personnel, market value of physical assets and intellectual property, and a forecast of potential revenue. Here are some top reasons to do a business valuation.

by Tim Hilligoss

May 9, 2022

Transaction Support

Considering a Sale? Financial Reporting Matters

Having the right financial statements in place is vital for many reasons, but especially when you may be considering the potential sale of your business. When it comes to financial reporting, buyers and sellers frequently have different priorities in mind so they may be looking for different things when reviewing financials.

by Tim Hilligoss

by Ben Smith

April 20, 2022

Transaction Support

It’s Time to Plan Your Business Exit Strategy

Selling your business ownership stake at the right time – and for the right price – can be a challenge. To make matters even more uncertain, today’s buyers are more sophisticated than ever – especially with rising private equity influence. The earlier you start crafting an exit strategy, the better.

by Tim Hilligoss

by Ben Smith

March 15, 2022

Transaction Support

Business Transaction Basics: It’s All About Due Diligence

You’ve been talking to buyers for months and have a letter of intent in hand. So, what comes next? Before taking on tens of millions of dollars in new assets, buyers will undergo a thorough check to understand exactly what they are purchasing. Here's what you need to know about due diligence to make the process as smooth as possible.

by Ben Smith

by Tim Hilligoss

September 28, 2021

Transaction Support

Business Transaction Basics: Why Having the Right Team Matters

Many new obstacles and questions come into focus when you decide to sell your business. Where do you find firms interested in buying? How much is your company worth? How do you find a good partner? Bringing on an experienced M&A team can help ensure you get the full value of the company you’ve built.

by Ben Smith

by Tim Hilligoss

September 9, 2021

Transaction Support

Business Transaction Basics: Are You Ready to Sell?

Even if your business isn’t for sale yet, knowing what’s involved in a transaction and understanding what buyers value most is a great way to ensure your business can receive the best valuation possible for when the day comes – often faster than you anticipate.

by Ben Smith

by Tim Hilligoss

August 17, 2021

Transaction Support

Transaction Basics for Business Owners: Post Closing…Now What?

Wondering what happens after a business deal closes? While it may seem like completing a transition is enough – it’s not quite done. Watch this recorded live video event for tips on preserving your investment post-sale.

by Tim Hilligoss

June 28, 2021

Transaction Support

Transaction Basics for Business Owners: Due Diligence

Deals are made or lost in the due diligence process. Watch this live video to learn about common issues that surface during this phase, including vital buyer and employee needs.

by Tim Hilligoss

June 11, 2021

Transaction Support

Transaction Basics for Business Owners: The Art of the Deal

When you find yourself seriously considering a transaction, you’ll need to put the right team in place. Watch this live video to learn more about the roles of your CPA, attorney, and investment banker – and how they work together to protect your interests.

by Tim Hilligoss

May 21, 2021

Transaction Support

Transaction Service Event Series for Business Owners

We are pleased to announce a new live video event series: Buying, Selling or Not so Sure? Transaction Service Basics for Business Owners. This 4-part series, hosted in collaboration with the Michigan Manufacturers Association, offers guidance on the following topics: deal preparation basics, the role of your advisory team, due diligence, and post-closing considerations.

by Tim Hilligoss

May 17, 2021

Transaction Support

Transaction Basics for Business Owners: Preparing Even When You’re Not Ready

Even if you’re not ready to sell now, it’s never too early to start planning for an inevitable transition. Watch this recorded live video event to learn how buyers assess value and what’s needed to put yourself and your business in the best possible position.

by Tim Hilligoss

May 8, 2021

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Planning Can Help Put the Success in Succession

If you are one of the many baby boomers planning to retire in the next few years, you know (or should know) the importance of having a succession plan in place. By preparing now, you can carefully evaluate your options and maximize the value of your business. Here are some basic guidelines to consider along the road to succession.