Before sharing business records: six questions to ask

Start with ordinary questions and ask for clear written answers. You can explore an opportunity without sending business files, client records or account passwords in the first conversation.

1. Who am I signing with and who pays me?

Get the actual company names and understand each person's role. The person introducing you may be different from the buyer signing the agreement or the company making payment.

2. What records do you want, and how will they be used?

Ask which systems, dates and kinds of records are included. Confirm whether the buyer wants a copy or ongoing access, the allowed uses and who else may receive the records.

3. Do I have permission to share these records?

Review ownership, contracts and permissions with appropriate advisers. Identify personal, confidential or restricted material and agree who handles exclusions and filtering. Keeping a copy of records does not by itself prove sharing is allowed.

4. How much will I keep, and when will I be paid?

Ask about the gross offer, every fee, who pays each person, payment milestones and any refund or recovery conditions. Compare what you keep after costs, using the same records and rights.

5. What will this stop me from doing later?

Ask about exclusivity, future licensing, continuing access and other obligations. Read the actual limits rather than relying on a general description.

6. What happens if I decide not to proceed?

Find out what happens to any sample or copy already supplied, who can retain it and whether you owe anything. Agree the scope before giving access.

These questions help you prepare for a decision. They do not replace advice about your contracts, legal obligations or taxes. The buyer pays Monday Town. We charge you no consulting fee, and if your records need preparation, we explain any separate costs before you decide.