Form 1120-S is a tax form S corporations use to report their income, gains, losses, deductions, credits, and other tax-related information to the Internal Revenue Service (IRS). It is also known as the U.S. Income Tax Return for an S Corporation.
Why should you file Form 1120-S?
Filing form 1120-S is necessary for S corporations as it allows them to report their income and expenses accurately to the IRS. This helps ensure compliance with tax laws and accurate assessment of tax liabilities. Timely and accurate filing is crucial to avoid IRS penalties and maintain compliance with tax regulations, benefiting the corporation and its shareholders.
Who should file Form 1120-S?
S corporations should file Form 1120-S. S corporations are domestic corporations that elect to pass corporate income, losses, deductions, and credits through to their shareholders for federal tax purposes. Certain eligibility criteria must be met to qualify as an S corporation, including limitations on the number and type of shareholders.
Either a member of the corporation or a tax professional can prepare the form, and it must be submitted either electronically or via mail.
How do you file Form 1120-S?
To file Form 1120-S, S corporations can choose to prepare the form themselves or seek assistance from a tax professional. The form must be filed electronically using the IRS’s e-file system or by mailing a printed copy to the appropriate IRS address. It’s essential to ensure accuracy and timely submission to avoid penalties. Additionally, any required schedules or supporting documentation should accompany the form when filing.
What are the benefits of filing Form 1120-S?
Filing form 1120-S allows S corporations to report their income and expenses accurately, potentially reducing their tax liability. It also provides shareholders with financial transparency and can help them obtain financing or attract investors.
Form 1120-S expedites tax payments and refunds, simplifying the process and reducing errors. This enables each shareholder to complete their individual income tax returns precisely. Opting for S corporation status primarily benefits from pass-through tax liability.
Ensuring accurate completion and filing of Form 1120-S helps avoid penalties of up to $450 per shareholder for failure to file, preserving the financial advantages of this tax classification.
When is Form 1120-S due?
Form 1120-S is generally due on the 15th day of the third month after the end of the corporation’s tax year. For example, if a corporation’s tax year ends on December 31st, its form 1120-S would be due by March 15th of the following year. However, if the 15th falls on a weekend or holiday, the deadline may be extended to the next business day.