assignment of llc interest form

Assignment of Interest In LLC: Everything You Need to Know

Assignment of interest in LLCs happens when a member communicates to other members his/her intention to transfer part or all of his ownership rights in the LLC to another entity. 3 min read updated on October 28, 2020

Assignment of interest in LLCs happens when a member communicates to other members his/her intention to transfer part or all of his ownership rights in the LLC to another entity. The assignment is usually done as a means for members to provide collateral for personal loans, settle debts, or leave the LLC. The member (assignor) and the person assigned (assignee) sign a document called the Membership Assignment of Interest.

Why a Member May Want to Assign Interest

A member may choose to assign interest for a number of reasons.

• The assignment of interest may happen as collateral to a loan to one of the members.
• Some members can assign interest to settle debts. The assignment will be effective until the debt is cleared.
• An assignment of interest can also' be done  to a member's legal heirs , going into effect upon the death of a member. 

The Rights and Limitations of the Assignee

The laws governing LLC membership interest assignments vary considerably from one state to another. 

• Most states prohibit the assignee from participating in the LLC's operations or decisions unless the Articles of Organization have this provision.
• An assignee is protected from liability from the assignor until the assignee becomes a member in most states. However, the law in a few states, including California and Florida, states that the assignee does get the assignor's liability.
• Should the assignee become a member after the assignment, he is only entitled to the rights and restrictions the assignor had.
• The assignment usually gives the assignee the right to receive the assignor's share of the profits — but not necessarily the other rights.

The Rights and Limitations of the Assignor

• In many states, all LLC members have the right to assign membership interest.
• In most states, assigning interest does not necessarily lead to forfeiting of voting and management rights and can be temporary. Texas law, on the other hand, states that the assignor ceases to be a member of the LLC after the assignment.

The Rights and Limitations of Other Members

• All members of the LLC have to be notified of any type of assignment.
• Some states require the assignment of interest to be approved by all members.
• The new person who has been assigned interest does not necessarily become a member even if the assigner has decided to leave the LLC. The other members can decide whether to admit the assignee as a member or not. Should a member assign interest without the input of other members, the interest is normally limited to financial benefits.
• In a two-member LLC, one member can easily transfer the interest to the other. 

The Membership Interest Assignment Document

The LLC's operating agreement should explain the rights of members on issues of transfer of interest, and the agreement should be followed during the assignment process. The Membership Interest Assignment acts as a record of the agreement, and the LLC normally keeps a copy of the document. The law in most states does not provide a formal template of the Membership Interest Assignment document but lists what should be included in the document. The document should have the following details:

• Percentage of interest that will go to the assignee 
• Whether the assignee will have voting rights
• The signatures of the assignor and the assignee

Assignment of Interest Versus Selling Ownership Stake

The assignment of interest is typically different from selling the ownership stake . Selling a member's ownership stake in the LLC requires unanimous approval by the other members. A departing member may also assign his membership to another member.

If a member is being paid to transfer interest, this is treated for tax purposes as a sale, and the selling member's gains might be liable to capital gains tax. Even if a departing member is not paid for his interest, if the departure results in the assignee getting the departing members' share of liability, the departure is seen as an exchange or sale.

Assignment of Interest Versus Abandoning an LLC

If a member wants to withdraw interest in an LLC, he/she can choose to simply legally abandon the LLC in most states. The abandoning member should give some kind of notice to the other members explaining that he is abandoning membership. Abandoning membership does not usually require the approval of other members.

Abandoning an LLC does not absolve the member of liability he/she may have incurred when still a member.

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Content Approved by UpCounsel

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Home » LLC Interest Transfer » Assignment and Transfer of Membership Interest

Assignment and Transfer of Membership Interest

Jeramie Fortenberry, J.D., LL.M.

An LLC owner (called a member ) can transfer an ownership interest (called a membership interest ) by complying with the transfer provisions within the LLC’s operating agreement and state law. An assignment is one of the key documents a member must prepare to officially transfer a membership interest to a transferee.

What is the Purpose of an LLC Interest Assignment?

An assignment—sometimes titled assignment and transfer or assignment and assumption —serves as a written record of a member’s transfer of an LLC interest to a transferee. It is comparable to a deed that transfers real estate, but an assignment instead transfers to a new owner (the assignee or transferee ) some or all of an LLC member’s ownership rights in the company. Like some deeds, an assignment may include the member’s guarantee that he or she actually owns the interest being transferred and has the right to transfer it.

An LLC interest assignment must comply with any transfer terms, conditions, or restrictions in the company’s operating agreement. For example, an operating agreement may require other members’ consent to the transfer or limit the ownership rights that members are allowed to transfer.

An LLC owner may also prepare an assignment when offering an ownership interest as security for a loan. In that situation, the lender is the assignee and usually claims the interest only if the member fails to repay the loan. Assignments of LLC interests pledged as collateral are subject to additional laws and are not the focus of this article.

What LLC Interests Do Assignments Transfer?

A member who creates an LLC assignment customizes the assignment to the precise ownership interest the member wishes to transfer. LLC ownership interests can generally be separated into two basic interests:

• Economic rights. A member’s economic rights (sometimes called transferable interest ) include the member’s allocation of the LLC’s profits and losses and the member’s right to receive distributions from the company.
• Membership rights. A member’s membership rights—which are typically defined in the operating agreement—include the member’s right to vote on important matters, participate in the LLC’s internal affairs, and join in the management of the company (if it is member-managed).

An assignment can transfer the member’s economic rights (in whole or in part)—in which case the transferee receives a right to LLC distributions but no right to vote on LLC matters. Or, an assignment can transfer the member’s entire interest in the company. A transfer of all membership rights typically requires other members’ approval, formal admittance of the transferee as a new member, and a separate joinder agreement under which the new member accepts the LLC’s operating agreement.

What Information is Included in an LLC Membership Assignment?

An assignment must identify the transferor and the transferee, the company, and the specific interest being transferred. It should state whether the transfer applies to all or part of the transferor’s interest and whether the transferee will receive all membership rights or an economic interest only.

Assignments often also include:

• A reference to the operating agreement’s authorization of the transfer;
• A statement that the transfer has been approved under the operating agreement’s approval standard; and
• The transferor’s warranty that he or she actually owns the interest and that the assignment does not breach any other agreements.

An assignment must be signed by the member who makes the transfer and—depending on its terms—may also be signed by the transferee and on behalf of the LLC.

Assignment of Membership Interest: The Ultimate Guide for Your LLC

LegalGPS : Jul. 24, 2024

As a business owner, there may come a time when you need to transfer ownership of your company or acquire additional members. In these situations, an assignment of membership interest is a critical step in the process. This blog post aims to provide you with a comprehensive guide on everything you need to know about the assignment of membership interest and how to navigate the procedure efficiently. So, let's dive into the world of LLC membership interest transfers and learn how to secure your business!

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Assignment of Membership Interest Template

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Table of Contents

Necessary approvals and consent, impact on ownership, voting, and profit rights, complete assignment, partial assignment.

• Key elements to include

Step 1: Gather Relevant Information

Step 2: review the llc's operating agreement, step 3: obtain necessary approvals and consents, step 4: outline the membership interest being transferred, step 5: determine the effective date of the assignment, step 6: specify conditions and representations, step 7: address tax and liability issues, step 8: draft the entire agreement and governing law clauses, step 9: review and sign the assignment agreement.

• Advantages of using a professionally-created template
• How our contract templates stand out from the rest

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about Assignment of Membership Interest

Do you need a lawyer for this, what is an assignment of membership interest.

An assignment of membership interest is a document that allows a member of an LLC to transfer their ownership share in the company to another person or entity. This can be done in the form of a sale or gift, which are two different scenarios that generally require different types of paperwork. An assignment is typically signed by the parties involved and delivered to the Secretary of State's office for filing. However, this process can vary depending on where you live and whether your LLC has members other than yourself as well as additional documents required by state law.

Before initiating the assignment process, it's essential to review the operating agreement of your LLC, as it may contain specific guidelines on how to assign membership interests.

Often, these agreements require the express consent of the other LLC members before any assignment can take place. To avoid any potential disputes down the line, always seek the required approvals before moving forward with the assignment process.

It's essential to understand that assigning membership interests can affect various aspects of the LLC, including ownership, voting rights, and profit distribution. A complete assignment transfers all ownership rights and obligations to the new member, effectively removing the original member from the LLC. For example, if a member assigns his or her interest, the new member inherits all ownership rights and obligations associated with that interest. This includes any contractual obligations that may be attached to the membership interest (e.g., a mortgage). If there is no assignment of interests clause in your operating agreement, then you will need to get approval from all other members for an assignment to take place.

On the other hand, a partial assignment permits the original member to retain some ownership rights while transferring a portion of their interest to another party. To avoid unintended consequences, it's crucial to clearly define the rights and responsibilities of each party during the assignment process.

Types of Membership Interest Transfers

Membership interest transfers can be either complete or partial, depending on the desired outcome. Understanding the differences between these two types of transfers is crucial in making informed decisions about your LLC.

A complete assignment occurs when a member transfers their entire interest in the LLC to another party, effectively relinquishing all ownership rights and obligations. This type of transfer is often used when a member exits the business or when a new individual or entity acquires the LLC.

For example, a member may sell their interest to another party that is interested in purchasing their share of the business. Complete assignment is also used when an individual or entity wants to purchase all of the interests in an LLC. In this case, the seller must receive unanimous approval from the other members before they can transfer their entire interest.

Unlike a complete assignment, a partial assignment involves transferring only a portion of a member's interest to another party. This type of assignment enables the member to retain some ownership in the business, sharing rights, and responsibilities proportionately with the new assignee. Partial assignments are often used when adding new members to an LLC or when existing members need to redistribute their interests.

A common real-world example is when a member receives an offer from another company to purchase their interest in the LLC. They might want to keep some ownership so that they can continue to receive profits from the business, but they also may want out of some of the responsibilities. By transferring only a partial interest in their membership share, both parties can benefit: The seller receives a lump sum payment for their share of the LLC and is no longer liable for certain financial obligations or other tasks.

How to Draft an Assignment of Membership Interest Agreement

A well-drafted assignment of membership interest agreement can help ensure a smooth and legally compliant transfer process. Here is a breakdown of the key elements to include in your agreement, followed by a step-by-step guide on drafting the document.

Key elements to include:

The names of the assignor (the person transferring their interest) and assignee (the person receiving the interest)

The name of your LLC and the state where it was formed

A description of the membership interest being transferred (percentage, rights, and obligations)

Any required approvals or consents from other LLC members

Effective date of the assignment

Signatures of all parties involved, including any relevant witnesses or notary public

Before you begin drafting the agreement, gather all pertinent data about the parties involved and the membership interest being transferred. You'll need information such as:

The names and contact information of the assignor (the person transferring their interest) and assignee (the person receiving the interest)

The name and formation details of your LLC, including the state where it was registered

The percentage and value of the membership interest being transferred

Any specific rights and obligations associated with the membership interest

Examine your LLC's operating agreement to ensure you adhere to any predetermined guidelines on assigning membership interests. The operating agreement may outline specific procedures, required approvals, or additional documentation necessary to complete the assignment process.

If your LLC doesn't have an operating agreement or if it's silent on this matter, follow your state's default LLC rules and regulations.

Before drafting the assignment agreement, obtain any necessary approvals or consents from other LLC members as required by the operating agreement or state law. You may need to hold a members' meeting to discuss the proposed assignment and document members' consent in the form of a written resolution.

Detail the membership interest being transferred in the Assignment of Membership Interest Agreement. Specify whether the transfer is complete or partial, and include:

The percentage of ownership interest being assigned

Allocated profits and losses, if applicable

Voting rights associated with the transferred interest

The assignor's rights and obligations that are being transferred and retained

Any capital contribution requirements

Set an effective date for the assignment, which is when the rights and obligations associated with the membership interest will transfer from the assignor to the assignee.

This date is crucial for legal and tax purposes and helps both parties plan for the transition. If you don’t specify an effective date in the assignment agreement, your state's law may determine when the transfer takes effect.

In the agreement, outline any conditions that must be met before the assignment becomes effective. These could include obtaining certain regulatory approvals, fulfilling specific obligations, or making required capital contributions.

Additionally, you may include representations from the assignor attesting that they have the legal authority to execute the assignment. Doing this is important because it can prevent a third party from challenging the assignment on grounds of lack of authority. If the assignor is an LLC or corporation, be sure to specify that it must be in good standing with all necessary state and federal regulatory agencies.

Clearly state that the assignee will assume responsibility for any taxes, liabilities, and obligations attributable to the membership interest being transferred from the effective date of the assignment. You may also include indemnification provisions that protect each party from any potential claims arising from the other party's actions.

For example, you can include a provision that provides the assignor with protection against any claims arising from the transfer of membership interests. This is especially important if your LLC has been sued by a member, visitor, or third party while it was operating under its current management structure.

In the closing sections of the assignment agreement, include clauses stating that the agreement represents the entire understanding between the parties concerning the assignment and supersedes any previous agreements or negotiations. Specify that any modifications to the agreement must be made in writing and signed by both parties. Finally, identify the governing law that will apply to the agreement, which is generally the state law where your LLC is registered.

This would look like this:

Once you've drafted the Assignment of Membership Interest Agreement, ensure that all parties carefully review the document to verify its accuracy and completeness. Request a legal review by an attorney, if necessary. Gather the assignor, assignee, and any necessary witnesses or notary public to sign the agreement, making it legally binding.

Sometimes the assignor and assignee will sign the document at different times. If this is the case, then you should specify when each party must sign in your Assignment Agreement.

Importance of a Professionally-drafted Contract Template

To ensure a smooth and error-free assignment process, it's highly recommended to use a professionally-drafted contract template. While DIY options might seem tempting, utilizing an expertly-crafted template provides several distinct advantages.

Advantages of using a professionally-created template:

Accuracy and Compliance: Professionally-drafted templates are designed with state-specific regulations in mind, ensuring that your agreement complies with all necessary legal requirements.

Time and Cost Savings: With a pre-written template, you save valuable time and resources that can be better spent growing your business.

Reduced Legal Risk: Legal templates created by experienced professionals significantly reduce the likelihood of errors and omissions that could lead to disputes or litigations down the road.

Get Your Assignment of Membership Interest Template with a Legal GPS Subscription

How our contract templates stand out from the rest:

We understand the unique needs of entrepreneurs and business owners. Our contract templates are designed to provide a straightforward, user-friendly experience that empowers you with the knowledge and tools you need to navigate complex legal processes with ease. By choosing our Assignment of Membership Interest Agreement template, you can rest assured that your business is in safe hands. Click here to get started!

As you embark on the journey of assigning membership interest in your LLC, here are some frequently asked questions to help address any concerns you may have:

Is an assignment of membership interest the same as a sale of an LLC? No. While both processes involve transferring interests or assets, a sale of an LLC typically entails the sale of the entire business, whereas an assignment of membership interest relates to the transfer of some or all membership interests between parties.

Do I need an attorney to help draft my assignment of membership interest agreement? While not mandatory, seeking legal advice ensures that your agreement complies with all relevant regulations, minimizing potential legal risks. If you prefer a more cost-effective solution, consider using a professionally-drafted contract template like the ones we offer at [Your Company Name].

Can I assign my membership interest without the approval of other LLC members? This depends on your LLC's operating agreement and state laws. It's essential to review these regulations and obtain any necessary approvals or consents before proceeding with the assignment process.

The biggest question now is, "Do you need a lawyer for your business?” For most businesses and in most cases, you don't need a lawyer to start your business. Instead, many business owners rely on Legal GPS Pro to help with legal issues. Legal GPS Pro is your All-In-One Legal Toolkit for Businesses. Developed by top startup attorneys, Pro gives you access to 100+ expertly crafted templates including operating agreements, NDAs, and service agreements, and an interactive platform. All designed to protect your company and set it up for lasting success.

Get Legal GPS's Assignment of Membership Interest Template Now

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LLC Membership Interest Assignment

Choose the state where the LLC is formed (and primarily does business). This will be the state where all of the initial business documents for the LLC, like the Articles of Organization or Certificate of Formation, have been filed.

State of Alabama

I. This assignment ("Assignment") is made by and between the following parties: ________ , hereinafter known as "Assignor," having an address at the following:

and ________ , hereinafter known as "Assignee," having an address at the following:

II. Assignor, an individual, hereby assigns, transfers, and conveys all of Assignor's right, title and interest in and to all of Assignor's membership interests in ________ , a Alabama Limited Liability Company, hereinafter known as the "LLC," to Assignee, an individual. Such membership interest amounts to the following percentage ownership: ________ % (________ percent) membership interest, along with voting rights in the LLC, and this Assignment shall leave Assignor with no interest in the LLC. Assignee hereby accepts this Assignment.

III. This assignment is effective as of ________ and is made for good and valuable consideration, the receipt and sufficiency of which is hereby acknowledged.

IV. Assignor hereby represents and warrants and that Assignor has good title to the membership interest conveyed herein and that Assignor has no limitations on making such assignment, such as any security interest, lien, or encumbrance.

V. 88882225 2552525 5225282228 525 85555228 2552 82 8888 2522 522 82228 22 2252282 88882222'8 5282822 22 252 2228258582 82225282 82 252 228 58 52858525.

VI. 5588 5888222222 85588 82 85885 525 8825822 5222 588 22 88882225 525 88882222'8 8588288258, 25528225228, 52858, 525 5888228.

IN WITNESS WHEREOF, Assignor and Assignee have caused this Assignment to be executed on the following date: ________ .

Assignor: ________

Signature: __________________________

Assignee: ________

Consent To Assignment Of Membership Interest

Each and all of the members of ________ , a Alabama Limited Liability Company, hereby consent to the assignment, transfer and conveyance of membership interest in ________ made by the attached LLC Membership Interest Assignment. Each and all of the members further agree that Assignee is now a member of ________ and Assignor retains no further interest in ________ .

Assignee shall have all the rights and powers of a member henceforth.

This consent is made on the following date: ____________________.

Name of Member: __________________________

Signature:__________________________

HOW TO CUSTOMIZE THE TEMPLATE

Answer the question, then click on "Next."

The document is written according to your responses - clauses are added or removed, paragraphs are customised, words are changed, etc.

At the end, you will immediately receive the document in Word and PDF formats. You can then open the Word document to modify it and reuse it however you wish.