5 October 2025

ABCDE of Transferring the Family Farm

Traditionally in Ireland, land passes from one generation to the next, but the transfer is not always smooth. While there’s no guaranteed formula for success, many issues can be avoided with enough time and planning.

Transferring the Family Farm Clinics are currently taking place throughout the country. These clinics are designed to help farm families through the transfer process, providing practical advice and guidance to plan a successful farm transfer. Here are some steps you can take to help ensure a smooth transition:

A – Ask your advisor

If you are considering transferring your farm, your first step should be to consult your Teagasc advisor. Your advisor knows your farm business in detail and can provide sound guidance throughout the transfer process. At your initial appointment, clarify exactly what you want to achieve. Who will inherit the farm and when? Your advisor can explain the implications of the transfer on farm schemes and advise on matters to discuss with your solicitor and accountant.

For many farmers, the prospect of transferring their business can be daunting. There are no second chances, so careful planning is essential. Teagasc advises on numerous farm transfers each year and can guide you through tried and tested steps that help ensure a smooth process.

B – Bring all family members into the transfer process

Involving all family members is key to avoiding disputes. Communicate your plans clearly, whether the transfer is during your lifetime or via a Will. Uncertainty about succession can create resentment and conflict.

Consider the ages of family members and plan for educational costs or income provisions if parents are too young for pensions. Both spouses must agree on the transfer to prevent later disagreements. Family settlements for non-farming children should be discussed openly, as Irish farms are often asset rich but cash poor. Decisions made at this stage may have tax or legal consequences, so involve your solicitor and tax adviser.

C – Consider your future

If you plan to retire, think carefully about your future income and lifestyle. Assess your health, age, and living expenses, and ensure pensions or other arrangements provide sufficient support. Some farmers arrange private agreements with the new farmer to provide annual income. Postponing farm transfer due to ill health can be risky, as sudden illness can leave you unable to make decisions.

D – Define the farm business

Document the structure of your farm, including land ownership, livestock numbers, bank accounts, scheme payments, and business relationships. Clearly defining the business allows your successor to manage it effectively and ensures a smooth transfer of responsibilities.

E – Explore all the options

Examine all transfer options. While traditionally farms passed to the eldest son, modern circumstances mean not all children wish to farm. Consider partnerships, leasing, selling land or planting forestry. Leasing can provide income while maintaining ownership, and forestry can reduce labour requirements while generating revenue.

The Succession Planning Advice Grant is aimed at promoting best practice in intergenerational land transfer and addressing generational imbalances in farming, this grant supports farmers aged 60 and above by covering up to 50% of approved legal, accounting, and advisory costs, up to €1,500.