Choosing between an LLC and an S-Corp isn’t just a paperwork decision. It’s a financial strategy. The structure you pick determines how much you keep in profits, how much you hand over in taxes, and how easily you can grow your business. Get it right, and you’ll save thousands each year. Get it wrong, and you could be overpaying or stuck with unnecessary headaches.
At Insogna CPA, one of the top CPA firms in Austin, Texas, we work with business owners to make sure their structure fits their goals, scales with their success, and minimizes tax liability. Let’s break down the six biggest differences between an LLC and an S-Corp and how to know which is right for you.
1. Liability Protection: Both Keep Your Personal Assets Safe
One of the biggest perks of forming an LLC or S-Corp is separating your personal finances from your business. That means if your business gets sued or runs into debt, your house, car, and savings are protected.
- LLCs provide limited liability protection, meaning your personal assets are separate from your business.
- S-Corps offer the same liability protection as an LLC.
The takeaway:
From a liability perspective, LLCs and S-Corps offer the same protection. Your real decision comes down to tax strategy and business growth.
2. Self-Employment Tax: S-Corp Owners Can Save Big
If your business is profitable, self-employment tax is one of the biggest expenses you’ll face.
- LLCs: You pay 3% self-employment tax on ALL your profits. That’s Social Security and Medicare coming straight out of your earnings.
- S-Corps: You only pay self-employment tax on your salary. The rest of your profits are taxed at lower rates as distributions.
The takeaway:
If you’re making over $50,000 in net profit, electing S-Corp status could save you thousands in self-employment taxes. A small business CPA in Austin can help you calculate the savings and determine if it’s time to make the switch.
3. Payroll & Salary: S-Corps Require a Paycheck
When you own an LLC, you can take owner draws whenever you want. But when you run an S-Corp, the IRS wants you to pay yourself a reasonable salary before taking additional profits as distributions.
- LLCs: No payroll required. You take the owner draws directly from profits.
- S-Corps: You must set up payroll and pay yourself a salary before taking extra distributions.
The takeaway:
If you elect S-Corp status, you’ll need to run payroll and file W-2s. The extra work is often worth it for the tax savings, but a CPA in Austin, Texas can help you set up payroll correctly to avoid IRS scrutiny.
4. Tax Filing Requirements: S-Corps Have More Paperwork
If you hate tax paperwork, know this: S-Corps come with extra filings.
- LLCs: You file Schedule C (Profit & Loss Statement) with your personal tax return. Simple and straightforward.
- S-Corps: You must file a separate business tax return (Form 1120-S) and issue W-2s for payroll.
The takeaway:
S-Corps require more administrative work, but the tax savings often outweigh the hassle. A tax advisor in Austin can handle the extra reporting so you don’t have to.
5. Best Choice Based on Income Level
The amount of profit your business generates should drive your decision.
- If your net profit is under $50K per year → Stick with an LLC. The tax savings of an S-Corp don’t make sense for smaller businesses.
- If your net profit is over $50K per year → Consider an S-Corp. The tax savings can be significant, especially if you’re bringing in six figures or more.
The takeaway:
If your income is growing, you don’t want to wait too long to make the S-Corp switch. A CPA firm in Austin, Texas can help you time it right to maximize your savings.
6. When to Switch from an LLC to an S-Corp for Tax Benefits
Timing is everything. If your business is consistently generating strong profits, it may be time to switch from an LLC to an S-Corp.
- You’re earning $50,000+ in net profit.
- You’re comfortable running payroll and following IRS guidelines.
- You want to reduce self-employment taxes and increase tax efficiency.
The takeaway:
If this sounds like you, it’s time to talk to an Austin tax accountant about making the S-Corp election.
Not Sure Which is Right for You? Let’s Talk.
Your business structure isn’t just about compliance. It’s about strategy. The right choice can mean more profits, lower taxes, and a business that scales efficiently.
At Insogna CPA, one of the top CPA firms in Austin, Texas, we help business owners:
- Maximize tax savings with the right entity structure.
- Handle S-Corp payroll & tax filings so you stay compliant.
- Plan for long-term growth with a tax-smart business strategy.
Not sure which is right for you? Let Insogna CPA help you decide! Schedule a consultation with an expert Austin tax accountant today.