If you're looking to start a business, it's critical to choose the right business entity; and there are a range of factors to consider. Arguably, the most important factor is the tax rate. And with today's preferential C-Corp tax rates, a growing number of business owners are asking "Should I restructure my company?" Before you decide to start a C-Corp or restructure your company, the experts at MB Group have provided an easy-to-read guide on C-Corp tax rates. Continue reading to learn more and don't hesitate to reach out to the business consultants and CPAs at MB Group for tailored solutions.
A C-Corp or C corporation is a very popular legal business entity where the shareholders or
In 2018, the federal government enacted sweeping tax reforms that directly impacted all business entities. The biggest change pertaining to corporations was a reduction in the C-Corp tax rate from 35% to a flat 21%. Previously, $1,000 in corporate profits would have been taxable at 35%. All earnings passed through to shareholders would be subject to the tax rate on dividends.
Under the new tax reform law, the same $1,000 in corporate profits will be taxed at a lower 21%. The tax rate on dividends will be 20%, 15%, or 0% rate based on the individual's tax bracket. It's important to understand the new tax rate may not lower tax liability for corporations that have lower profits. These businesses may have previously been taxed at 15%, but will now pay the flat C-Corp tax rate of 21%. Other changes to C-Corp tax rates under the recent reform include the elimination of the Alternative Minimum Tax (AMT).
For federal income tax purposes, a C-Corp is a separate taxpayer entity, and any income will be subject to the flat 21% federal C-Corp tax rate. If you're looking to avoid the double taxation associated with a C-Corp, you may be able to form an S-Corp. With an S-Corp, all corporate income passes-through to individuals who will file their share of losses, gains, credits, and deductions on their individual tax returns. Under the most recent tax reform, S-Corps will pay a flat tax rate of 21% — just like C-Corps.
With unincorporated businesses — like LLCs, partnerships, and sole proprietorships — profits and losses will typically flow directly to the owners. As a result, these losses or gains must be reported on each individual's personal tax returns. This means LLC profits are subject to the individual's income tax rate.
Unfortunately, there is no clear-cut, hard-and-fast answer to the question "Should I restructure my company to take advantage of the C-Corp tax rate." It's vital to make this monumental consideration based on the unique needs and status of your business.
For example, consider the impact of double taxation — once on the preferential 21% C-Corp tax rate and the tax on dividends. These two levels of taxation could make the C-Corp structure significantly less advantageous than an LLC. In general, on the other hand, if you are not planning on paying out dividends and intend on reinvesting the lion's share of the profits back into the business as a long-term strategy, you may benefit from restructuring your business.
When it comes to deciding whether you should restructure your business, you don't have to do it alone! The qualified business consultants and CPAs at MB Group will carefully review your financial picture and help you understand the pros and cons of each option. This way, you can confidently make a decision and move forward knowing you're on the best path to success.
Contact the MB Group today for C-Corp restructuring consultation.