Business Owner Financial Independence Scorecard
A 10-Minute Self-Assessment to Identify Your Biggest Wealth Gaps
How to Use This Scorecard
Answer each question honestly. Score yourself 0-2 points per question:
- 0 = Not in place / Significant gap
- 1 = Partially in place / Some progress
- 2 = Fully in place / Confident
Total your score at the end and see where you stand.
Section 1: Business Valuation & Concentration Risk (Max 6 points)
1. I have a working estimate of what my business is worth today. _____
2. I know what percentage of my net worth is tied to the business (and real estate). _____
3. I have a plan to systematically move cash from the business to personal investments. _____
Section 2: Tax Efficiency & Compensation (Max 6 points)
4. My compensation structure (salary vs. distributions) is coordinated with my CPA. _____
5. I proactively plan for estimated taxes and avoid year-end surprises. _____
6. I am confident my retirement plan design fits my business and maximizes tax benefits. _____
Section 3: Risk Management & Protection (Max 6 points)
7. My life and disability insurance coverage is current and aligned with my business value. _____
8. My buy-sell agreement (if applicable) is funded and up to date. _____
9. My family knows what to do if something happens to me (business continuity plan). _____
Section 4: Personal Wealth Building (Max 6 points)
10. I am building liquid wealth outside the business on a consistent, automatic basis. _____
11. I have a clear investment strategy aligned with my goals (not just growth). _____
12. I track my personal net worth and savings rate at least quarterly. _____
Section 5: Exit Readiness & Optionality (Max 6 points)
13. I have a rough timeline and plan for a future transition (even if years away). _____
14. I understand my options: internal succession, strategic sale, or hold and harvest. _____
15. I know what my business would need to be worth (after tax) to fund my retirement. _____
Your Total Score: _____ / 30
What Your Score Means
- 25-30 points: Strong Foundation - You have most pieces in place. Focus on optimization.
- 8-24 points: Solid Progress - You are on the right track but have meaningful gaps.
- 10-17 points: Significant Gaps - Your wealth plan needs structure. Prioritize lowest-scoring sections.
- 0-9 points: High Risk - Your financial independence is heavily dependent on the business.
Next Step
If you scored below 25, or if any section scored 3 or below, a focused Wealth & Exit Scan can
help you build a clear roadmap. Consider speaking with a financial advisor.
Disclosures: The information contained herein reflects the opinion and projections of Bergamot Asset Management LP (“Bergamot”) as of the date of publication, which are subject to change without notice at any time subsequent to the date of issue. Bergamot does not represent that any opinion or projection will be realized. All information provided is for informational purposes only and should not be deemed as legal, tax, investment advice or a recommendation to purchase or sell any specific security. This shall not constitute an offer to sell or the solicitation of an offer to buy any interest in any fund managed by Bergamot or any of its affiliates. While the information presented herein is believed to be reliable, no representation or warranty is made concerning the accuracy of any data presented. Market conditions can vary widely over time and can result in a loss of portfolio value. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
