How to File an S Corp Tax Election

Introduction to Form 2553

IRS Form 2553 is pivotal for businesses seeking to elect S Corporation status. This election allows eligible small businesses to be taxed as pass-through entities, avoiding double taxation and potentially providing significant tax advantages. Filing Form 2553 can be a game-changer for many companies, offering benefits that streamline taxation and improve financial health.

What Is Form 2553?

A S Corp is an IRS tax designation under subchapter "S" of the tax code. Form 2553, Election by a Small Business Corporation, allows eligible domestic corporations and LLCs to elect S Corporation status with the IRS. With this election, income, losses, deductions, and credits pass through to shareholders, thus avoiding the double taxation that typically applies to C Corporations. You can file a Form 2553 whether you are establishing a new company or want to change your existing business structure to best fit your financial or tax situation.

Why File Form 2553?

Filing Form 2553 offers several advantages for small businesses:

Tax Benefits

Traditional C corporations have double taxation. The corporation pays corporate income taxes on profits, and each shareholder must pay personal income tax on distribution amounts. With an S Corp election, companies don't have to pay federal taxes at the entity level. Company profits pass through to the shareholders or owners, and the owners pay tax at personal income tax rates. This saves money on corporate taxes. Additionally, business owners can lower their personal income taxes by designating the money they receive from the business as salary or dividends.

Lower Self-Employment Tax

Electing to use an S Corp structure can also lower self-employment tax. S Corps can pay a portion of the owners' income as salary. The salary or compensation paid to the business owners must be reasonable, according to the IRS. The salary is taxed as employment income and is subject to FICA payroll taxes, but the remaining profits from the S Corp are not subject to those same taxes. This can save some money on taxes.

Credibility and Professionalism

Achieving S Corporation status can enhance the business's credibility with investors, partners, employees, suppliers, and customers. Setting up an S Corp takes time, planning, and close attention to detail. Others will see that you have a well-thought-out plan for your business and have gone through the appropriate channels and processes to be a legitimate company.

S Corp Eligibility

Before filing for an S Corp election, your company must meet certain requirements, such as:

• Be a domestic corporation or entity eligible to be treated as a corporation

• Have 100 or less shareholders

• Have individuals, estates, exempt organizations, or certain trusts as shareholders

• Have only one class of stock

• Include only U.S. residents or citizens as shareholders

• Your company cannot be a financial institution, insurance company, or domestic international sales corporation

A limited liability company (LLC) taxed as S Corp may also enjoy the tax advantages if it can meet these requirements. LLCs typically have greater flexibility as to ownership and stock types. Before filing IRS Form 2553, verify that your business meets these eligibility requirements. If you are changing your existing corporate status to S Corp, you may need to make changes to meet the requirements. Speak with a tax professional or other business advisors before making an S Corp election to be sure it's right for your business.

How to File Form 2553

The filing process for Form 2553 involves several detailed steps:

• Complete the form—include essential information such as the business's name, address, and Employer Identification Number (EIN).

• Election information—specify the tax year for which the election is being made.

• Shareholder consent—obtain consent from all shareholders.

• Filing deadlines—submit Form 2553 by the fifteenth day of the third month of the tax year you want the election to take effect, or within two months and fifteen days after the beginning of the tax year.

• Submit the form—send the completed form to the IRS as per the instructions.

If you fail to file Form 2553, your entity will be taxed as a C Corporation and experience double taxation. You may also face IRS penalties for late filing or failing to file. To ensure a proper S Corp election, double-check all the details of Form 2553 and be mindful of deadlines.

Cost of Filing Form 2553

There is no direct fee for filing Form 2553. However, you may incur a cost of $6,200 if you check box Q1 on Form 2553, which requests a fiscal tax year based on a business purpose. The IRS does not make you pay the fee upfront, but they will notify you when it is due. Other costs may include fees or expenses for working with tax or accounting professionals to prepare and file your Form 2553. The process can be complicated if you are unfamiliar with the form or requested information. Hiring a professional to prepare and file the form can help avoid common pitfalls and set up your S Corp right the first time.

Bizee Can Streamline Your S Corp Filing

Filing IRS Form 2553 is a crucial step for businesses seeking the benefits of S Corporation status. Understanding the purpose, process, costs, and potential pitfalls of an S Corp can help you make an informed decision and optimize your business's tax treatment. Whether you're a corporation or an LLC, careful consideration and timely filing of Form 2553 can offer significant advantages that help ensure your business operates efficiently and profitably.

Bizee has helped more than one million entrepreneurs jump-start their businesses and file for their preferred corporate structure. We can help prepare your Form 2553 and associated documentation to ensure proper filing. Contact Bizee today to begin preparing for your S Corp election.