How to Start an S-Corporation in Arkansas (2024 Guide)

Start an S-Corporation in Arkansas

If you want to start an LLC in Arkansas, there are things that you should consider. Arkansas is the home to a thriving business community, making it an attractive location for entrepreneurs. One popular business structure is the S-Corporation, which offers several tax and operational advantages. This comprehensive guide will explore the process of starting an S-Corporation in Arkansas, including the costs, steps, advantages, and disadvantages associated with this business structure.

Webinarcare Editorial Team will help you gain knowledge through thorough research and market study. Before starting your S-corp, all the steps in this article must guide you.

What is an S-Corporation?

An S-Corporation is a type of corporation that elects to be taxed under Subchapter S of the Internal Revenue Code. This tax treatment allows S-Corporations to enjoy pass-through taxation, meaning the corporation’s income, deductions, and credits flow through to the shareholders, who report this information on their individual tax returns. This structure helps to avoid the double taxation experienced by C-Corporations.

An S corporation (S corp) is not a type of corporate entity, unlike a limited liability company (LLC) or other companies. It’s a tax classification that might result in significant financial savings for corporations and LLCs but in different ways. S-corp is similar to LLC, except that the IRS treats it as a corporation for tax purposes.

Limitations and Requirements of S-Corp

As you have decided to have an S-Corp structure for your business, you must know the limitations and requirements to qualify for S-Corp status. We have listed some important points to consider following for your reference-

  • Be a domestic corporation.
  • Not be an ineligible corporation, such as specific financial institutions, insurance providers, or domestic corporations engaged in overseas sales.
  • Have just one type of stock.
  • Have a maximum of 100 shareholders or members.
  • Have only permitted individuals, certain trusts, and estates as stockholders or members.

You can apply for an S-Corp in Arkansas if qualified for the limitations and requirements.

Recommended: We recommend a professional service that can launch an S-Corp whether you have plans to crowdfund or go public. We recommend using –

LegalZoom Starts at $149 + filing fees

How to Form an S-Corporation in Arkansas?

To create S-Corp in Arkansas, you must follow the below guidelines that include forming a business name, hiring a Registered Agent, filing your Certificate of Organization, creating an operating agreement, requesting an EIN, and filing a form 2553.

Step 1: Register a Business Name in Arkansas

After you have decided on the idea to start an S-Corp in Arkansas, deciding the name for your corporation is significant. Legal procedures should be taken into account when choosing your partnership name. Choose a business name that will enable you to develop a strong brand identity.

If you want to set up an S-Corp, there is a complete guide on Arkansas Business Name Search for a proper business name. Here are some guidelines you must follow while naming your S-corp.

  • Avoid profanities
  • The name should be available, and no other entity should have the same name in Arkansas.
  • Limit of restricted words that need a license in Arkansas
  • Do not use a business name that sounds like a government agency or entity (like “police,” “county,” and “state”)

Step 2: Hire a Registered Agent

The next step in starting an S-corp in Arkansas is hiring a Registered Agent, a person that accepts legal paperwork on behalf of your business. This person or business will receive important tax forms, legal documents (such as subpoenas), all notices of lawsuits, and other official government correspondence. Forming an LLC with an S-corp will be easier if you have Registered Agent in Arkansas.

However, if you would like to have an easier process in filing the necessary documents, you can get Arkansas Registered Agent Services.

We reviewed some of the Best Registered Agent Services and provided features as an add-on with their packages for you to check out.

LLC Service

Rating & Pricing

Top Features

Learn More

#1 Recommendation

$299 Per Year

  • Free LLC Formation

  • RA service in all states

  • Legal consultation

$125 Per Year

  • Flat price for RA service

  • LLC formation package

  • Fast service

Step 3: File For Certificate of Organization

The Certificate of Organization is an important document to start your limited liability company (LLC). Arkansas Certificate of Organization is a simple document that contains the business name and address as well as the name and address of the person who received lawsuits on behalf of the organization. For the Certificate of Organization to be filed in AR Secretary of State, you need to pay a filing fee of $50. In Arkansas, the filing fee of forming an LLC is $50.

Recommended: Filing formation papers is easy and hassle-free if you hire a professional service. We recommend using –

LegalZoom ($0 + State Fee)

Step 4: Creating an Operating Agreement

After you have filed your Certificate of Organization, the next step is to create an operating agreement in Arkansas. The operating agreement is essential and necessary since it will cover your corporation’s important documentation and rules. The operating agreements usually include the following:

  • Article I: Organization
  • Article II: Management and Voting
  • Article III: Capital Contributions
  • Article IV: Distributions
  • Article V: Membership Changes
  • Article VI: Dissolution

After creating the LLC operating agreement, you can benefit in several ways since it will discuss how decisions for the business will be made, including management and member voting structure.

Step 5: Request for an EIN

After documenting the operating agreement, you should get or request an Employer Identification Number (EIN). An EIN will serve as the tax ID for your general partnership. EIN can be obtained from the Internal Revenue Service (IRS). It is a 9-digit number similar to Social Security Number. EIN, however, is distinct from SSN. It is only used for business-related activities, particularly for submitting general taxes. The form must be completed and uploaded to the IRS website.

The application of an EIN in Arkansas can be through the following:

  • Apply Online- The online EIN application is the preferred method for customers to apply for and obtain an EIN.
  • Apply by Fax- Taxpayers can fax the completed Form SS-4 application to the appropriate fax number), after ensuring that the Form SS-4 contains all of the required information.
  • Apply by Mail- The EIN application Form SS-4 can be filed via mail. The processing time frame to receive the mail is four weeks.
  • Apply by Telephone-International Applicants – International applicants may call 267-941-1099 (not a toll-free number) from 6 a.m. to 11 p.m. (Eastern Time) Monday through Friday to obtain their EIN.

If you would like to be assisted in getting an EIN in the Internal Revenue Service, LegalZoom can get your EIN for you. Their EIN service is quick and hassle-free. For more details about EIN for your business, check on how to apply for an EIN in Arkansas.

Recommended: With LegalZoom’s EIN service, obtaining your business’s crucial tax ID becomes a breeze, saving you time and effort by handling the complexities so you can quickly set sail on your entrepreneurial voyage. We recommend –

LegalZoom$79 (Standard Fee)

Step 6: File Form 2553 for your S-Corp Business

Once you have obtained your EIN and Certificate of Organization to form an S-Corp, you must file Form 2553, Election by a Small Business Corporation, to apply for S-corp status. Filing a form 2553 should be done 75 days after the formation of your S-Corp, or at most 75 days after the beginning of the tax year in which the election is to take effect.

If your LLS-Corp has passed the deadline of 75 days, you must also file Form 8832, Entity Classification Election, to opt to be taxed as a corporation. Then you would send Form 2553 and Form 8832 jointly by certified mail from the USPS.

In Arkansas, you can file your form 2553 in the Department of the Treasury Internal Revenue Service Center – Ogden, UT 84201 Fax: 855-214-7520 .

Costs of Forming an S-Corporation

There are several costs associated with forming an S-Corporation in Arkansas, including:

  1. Filing Fees: When forming a corporation in Arkansas, you must file Articles of Incorporation with the Arkansas Secretary of State and pay a filing fee of $45 for filing in-person and by mail.
  2. Statement of Information: After forming the corporation, you must file a Statement of Information (Form SI-550) within 90 days and pay a filing fee (currently $25). This statement must be filed annually after that.
  3. Franchise Tax: S-Corporations in Arkansas are subject to the annual franchise tax, which is the greater of a minimum tax (currently $800) or a calculated tax based on the corporation’s net income.
  4. Other Costs: Depending on the nature of your business, additional costs may include obtaining licenses and permits, registered agent services, and professional fees for legal and accounting services.

Advantages of Forming an S-Corporation

There are numerous advantages to incorporating an S-Corp, but you should be aware of certain problems. Consider the following benefits of an S corporation:

Pass-through Taxation

S-Corporations enjoy pass-through taxation, which helps to avoid the double taxation faced by C-Corporations. This can result in potential tax savings for shareholders. Pass-through taxation is a tax system where the income, deductions, and credits generated by a business entity, such as Arkansas General Partnership, limited liability company (LLC), or S-Corporation, are passed through to individual owners or shareholders instead of being taxed at the corporate level.

In this system, business profits and losses are reported on the owners’ or shareholders’ individual tax returns, and taxes are paid at their individual income tax rates. This avoids the issue of double taxation, which occurs in C-Corporations where income is taxed at both the corporate level and again when distributed to shareholders as dividends. Pass-through taxation is generally advantageous for small businesses and their owners, as it simplifies tax filings and often results in lower overall taxes.

Limited Liability Protection

Shareholders of an S-Corporation have limited liability protection, meaning their personal assets are protected from the corporation’s debts and obligations. Limited liability protection in an S-Corporation refers to the legal separation between the personal assets of the shareholders (owners) and the business assets, which protects shareholders from being personally responsible for the company’s debts and legal obligations.

In an S-Corporation, shareholders’ personal assets, such as their homes, cars, and personal savings, are not at risk if the business faces financial difficulties or lawsuits. The shareholders’ liability is limited to the amount they have invested in the company. This limited liability is a significant advantage of incorporating a business as an S-Corporation, as it provides a safeguard for the personal financial well-being of the business owners.

It is important to note that limited liability protection can only be supported if the shareholders maintain proper corporate formalities, such as keeping separate business and personal finances, holding regular shareholder meetings, and maintaining accurate business records. In such cases, courts may “pierce the corporate veil” and hold shareholders personally liable for the company’s debts and obligations.

Transferability of Shares

Shares in an S-Corporation are more easily transferable than those in an LLC, allowing for greater flexibility in ownership changes. Transferability of shares in an S-Corporation refers to the ability of shareholders to sell, gift, or otherwise transfer their ownership interest in the company to another person or entity. This is an important aspect of an S-Corporation’s structure, as it allows for flexibility in ownership and the potential for raising capital through the sale of shares.

However, there are certain restrictions on the transferability of shares in an S-Corporation, which are imposed by the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) to maintain the company’s eligibility for S-Corp status:

  • Shareholders: The number of shareholders in an S-Corporation is limited to a maximum of 100. Only individuals, certain trusts, and estates can be shareholders; other corporations and partnerships are generally not allowed.
  • Eligible Shareholders: Only U.S. citizens and resident aliens can be shareholders in an S-Corporation. Non-resident aliens are not allowed to hold shares.
  • One Class of Stock: S-Corporations can only have one class of stock. All shares must have the same rights and privileges, such as voting rights and distribution preferences. However, differences in voting rights are allowed if they are not tied to economic rights (e.g., distribution preferences).
  • Perpetual Existence: Perpetual existence refers to the concept that a business entity, such as an S-Corporation, can continue to exist indefinitely, regardless of changes in ownership or management. This means the corporation can outlive its original founders and shareholders and continue to operate even if individual shareholders pass away or decide to sell their shares.

This characteristic of an S-Corporation provides stability and continuity for the business, as it ensures that the corporation’s operations, contracts, and legal obligations remain unaffected by changes in ownership. It also makes it easier for the company to attract investors and raise capital. Potential investors can be confident that the business will continue to exist even if the original owners are no longer involved.

Disadvantages of Forming an S-Corporation

Despite these advantages, moving to an S corporation only sometimes makes sense – or at the very least, necessitates a thorough review of certain situations. The following issues may arise in particular:

Restrictions on Shareholders

S-Corporations are subject to specific restrictions, such as a maximum of 100 shareholders and limitations on the types of eligible shareholders (e.g., only individuals, certain trusts, and estates).

Single Class of Stock

S-Corporations are limited to issuing only one class of stock, which can limit flexibility in raising capital or creating different ownership structures. A single class of stock in an S-Corporation refers to the requirement that the corporation only issues one type of stock with equal rights and characteristics for all shareholders. This means that all shares of stock must have the same economic rights, such as dividend distribution preferences and liquidation rights, as well as voting rights. The single class of stock requirement is one of the key criteria the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) sets for a corporation to qualify for S-Corp status.

Increased Complexity

Forming and maintaining an S-Corporation requires more paperwork, record-keeping, and compliance with state and federal regulations than simpler structures like LLCs.

Franchise Tax

S-Corporations in Arkansas are subject to the annual franchise tax, which can financially burden some businesses.

In an Arkansas S-Corporation context, the franchise tax is usually based on the company’s income, net worth, or a combination of both. Since S-Corporations are pass-through entities for federal income tax purposes, meaning that their income is not taxed at the corporate level but rather passed through to individual shareholders, they may be exempt from or subject to lower franchise tax rates in some states than traditional C-Corporations.

However, S-Corporations must still comply with Arkansas franchise tax requirements, which may include annual filings and tax payments. It is crucial for S-Corporation owners to understand the specific rules and regulations in their state of operation and to consult with a tax professional to ensure compliance and minimize their tax.

FAQs

What is an S Corporation?
An S Corporation is a company that is designated by the IRS as eligible for special tax status under Subchapter S of the Internal Revenue Code, meaning the corporation is not taxed on income the way a traditional corporation is.
How do I start an S Corporation in Arkansas?
To start an S Corporation in Arkansas, you must first register your new business entity with the Arkansas Secretary of State, which includes filing Not-for-Profit Articles of Incorporation and a range of additional documentation.
What tax benefits does an S Corporation offer in Arkansas?
Numerous tax benefits are available when forming an S Corporation in Arkansas, including significant relief from taxation on corporate earnings, since the corporation is considered a pass-through entity for tax purposes.
How many stockholders are allowed in an S Corporation in Arkansas?
There is generally no minimum or maximum number of stockholders allowed in an S Corporation for most states, including Arkansas.
Is there a limit on the amount of stock that can be issued by an Arkansas S Corporation?
No, there is no limit on the amount of stock that may be issued by an S Corporation in Arkansas.
Is a standard corporation the same as an S Corporation in Arkansas?
Not exactly, since S Corporations are subcategories of regular C corporations that can be organized as Arkansas corporations, but with unique tax rules and shareholder qualifications.
What is the filing fee for S Corporations in Arkansas?
As of 2021, businesses filing to become S Corporations in Arkansas will have to pay at least $45 in fees to the Arkansas Secretary of State plus other processing fees and documentation costs.
What businesses can operate as S Corporations in Arkansas?
Most businesses that qualify as corporations according to state and federal laws are eligible to apply for S Corporation status in Arkansas if they meet certain tax and securities criteria.
Does Arkansas require S Corporations to file corporate tax returns?
Since S Corporation profits are passed through to shareholders’ personal tax returns, Arkansas does not require separate corporate tax returns from S Corps.
Are shareholders in S Corporations in Arkansas responsible for this entity’s debts?
As with regular limited liability companies, debts accrued by the S Corp are separate from the personal financial situations of shareholders in Arkansas.
What is the earliest point at which someone can elect S Corporation status once incorporated in Arkansas?
Generally, businesses can elect S Corporation status within the first two months and two weeks (75 days) of their incorporation in most states, including Arkansas.
How do Arkansas federal tax laws differ between C Corporations and S Corporations?
On net, C Corporations in Arkansas pay tax on all income earned, while S Corporations generally pass profits and losses directly through to shareholders to pay taxes only on what earnings they receive.
How is Arkansas State Tax affected by S Corporation status?
Because Arkansas is known for its high state corporate tax rates, the ability to take advantage of S Corporation status and treat corporate profits and losses like those of a sole proprietorship without the double taxation issue can result in significant state tax savings.
Does Arkansas require annual reports to be filed by S Corporations?
Yes, Arkansas requires all domestically-incorporated S Corporations to file annual reports detailing corporate activities with the Arkansas Secretary of State.
Do Arkansas S Corporations distribute monthly profits to shareholders?
The distribution of profits generated by S Corps in Arkansas varies widely, based on business structure, taxation campaigns, marketing revenue and numerous other factors.
How is stock ownership determined by Arkansas S Corporations?
Depending on existing incorporation and bylaws, generally, Arkansas S Corps can issue different classes of stocks with various terms covering shareholder management voting privil..
Is it reasonably priced to set up an S Corporation in Arkansas?
YES, forming an S Corp in Arkansas can usually be done at a reasonable expense, not withstanding any enhanced legal support somebody chooses to recruit.
Does Arkansas impose a franchise fee on S Corporations?
Answer:No, Arkansas doesn’t tax “franchise fees” on a corporate entity to the exclusion of state income tax.
What compliance challenges should I anticipate when launching an Arkansas S Corporation?
In Arkansas, attracting the initial shareholders/partners, sourcing and marketing to clients and feasible initial business expansion hurdles are always the first potential problems you’ll likely run across.
What yearly tax origination package does Arkansas need from S Corporations?
S corporations domiciled/arllowed in Arkansas must fill and provide the Arkansas annual report form and submit a franchise tax sometime before the May month-end.
Should all Arkansas corporations choose S Corporation status?
No, the decision whether to choose S corporation status should depend on the details of your specific situation, but income that pass-through entities generate can avoid taxation differences and shareholder compliance.
Should I consider legal consulting services when planning to start an S Corporation in Arkansas?
While, if time and money is a concern when creating trust drafts or submitting statutory timelines, engaging a reasonably priced legal firm can avoid compliance filing mistakes.
How many annual filings are required for Arkansas S Corp guidelines?
Annual revenue reports, annually filed reports, and filing renewal documents licenses with the state entities.
How familiar with Arkansas business norms should you be before starting an S Corporation here?
You should definitely spend time learning Arkansas specific business regulations if you are serious about building up an corporation from scratch or buying an existing one to grow and manage it more effectively.
Can non-residents incorporate an S Corporation in Arkansas?
Both residents and out-of-state residents can incorporate as an S Corporation in Arkansas, however designating a domestic agent in AR to receive revenue or to operate the business effectively is critical.
How important is having an official Arkansas mailing address when establishing an S Corporation?
An official business address within the state of Arkansas isn’t required when starting an S Corporation, although it’s a wise choice for establishing a targeted, ubiquitous business presence within the state.
Is professional legal help a prerequisite for starting or running an Arkansas S Corporation?
No, it is possible for standard business owners to establish an S Corporation in Arkansas without legal guidance, when organized and assumed upon completing preliminary documentation and approvals.
Once-formed does Arkansas require a final tax return from self-employed management?
Complicating to some degree by variations in overall asset opening cost and dedication of both employees/support staffs, it makes no material difference for Arkansas pre-tax receipt reporting, executives/partners’ are required to report profit/loss details to the Gov authorities.
What is an S-Corporation in Arkansas?
An S-Corporation in Arkansas is a type of business entity that offers the benefits of a corporation, but allows for pass-through taxation.
How do I start an S-Corporation in Arkansas?
To start an S-Corporation in Arkansas, you must file articles of incorporation with the Arkansas Secretary of State.
Can any business be an S-Corporation in Arkansas?
No, not every business can be an S-Corporation in Arkansas. For example, financial institutions and insurance companies are prohibited from electing S-Corporation status.
What are the advantages of an S-Corporation in Arkansas?
The advantages of an S-Corporation in Arkansas include pass-through taxation, limited liability, and flexibility in ownership.
What are the disadvantages of an S-Corporation in Arkansas?
The disadvantages of an S-Corporation in Arkansas include restrictions on ownership and a limited number of shareholders.
How many shareholders can an S-Corporation in Arkansas have?
An S-Corporation in Arkansas can have up to 100 shareholders.
Can an S-Corporation in Arkansas be owned by non-US citizens?
Yes, an S-Corporation in Arkansas can be owned by non-US citizens.
Is there a residency requirement to own an S-Corporation in Arkansas?
No, there is no residency requirement to own an S-Corporation in Arkansas.
How are profits and losses in an S-Corporation in Arkansas taxed?
Profits and losses in an S-Corporation in Arkansas are taxed as income for the shareholders.
Can an S-Corporation in Arkansas be taxed as a C-Corporation if desired?
Yes, an S-Corporation in Arkansas can elect to be taxed as a C-Corporation if desired.
Are S-Corporations in Arkansas required to hold annual meetings?
No, S-Corporations in Arkansas are not required to hold annual meetings.
What is the process for converting a corporation to an S-Corporation in Arkansas?
The process for converting a corporation to an S-Corporation in Arkansas is outlined by the Internal Revenue Service.
Can an S-Corporation in Arkansas have a fiscal year end other than December 31st?
Yes, an S-Corporation in Arkansas can have a fiscal year end other than December 31st with the proper election and notice to the IRS.
How are S-Corporations in Arkansas taxed on investment income?
S-Corporations in Arkansas are generally not taxed on investment income.
Can an S-Corporation in Arkansas have multiple classes of stock?
No, an S-Corporation in Arkansas cannot have multiple classes of stock.
Can an S-Corporation in Arkansas be owned by another corporation or entity?
No, an S-Corporation in Arkansas cannot be owned by another corporation or entity.
Can an S-Corporation in Arkansas have foreign shareholders?
Yes, an S-Corporation in Arkansas can have foreign shareholders.
What is the minimum number of shareholders required for an S-Corporation in Arkansas?
An S-Corporation in Arkansas can be formed with just one shareholder.
Can an S-Corporation in Arkansas be a non-profit organization?
No, an S-Corporation in Arkansas cannot be a non-profit organization.
Can an S-Corporation in Arkansas have a nonresident alien as a shareholder?
No, an S-Corporation in Arkansas cannot have a nonresident alien as a shareholder.
How are S-Corporations in Arkansas taxed on charitable contributions?
S-Corporations in Arkansas are generally not taxed on charitable contributions.
Can an S-Corporation in Arkansas make political contributions?
No, an S-Corporation in Arkansas cannot make political contributions.
Are S-Corporations in Arkansas subject to state income tax?
S-Corporations in Arkansas are not subject to state income tax, but shareholders may be liable.
Do S-Corporation in Arkansas have to file annual reports?
Yes, S-Corporations in Arkansas have to file annual reports with the Arkansas Secretary of State.
How do I dissolve an S-Corporation in Arkansas?
To dissolve an S-Corporation in Arkansas, you must file articles of dissolution with the Arkansas Secretary of State.
Can the ownership of an S-Corporation in Arkansas be transferred without selling the company?
No, the ownership of an S-Corporation in Arkansas cannot be transferred without selling the company.
Who can serve as a registered agent for an S-Corporation in Arkansas?
A registered agent for an S-Corporation in Arkansas can be any person who is at least 18 years old and a resident of Arkansas.
Can an S-Corporation in Arkansas change its entity type?
Yes, an S-Corporation in Arkansas can change its entity type with the proper filing of paperwork.
Is there a fee to file articles of incorporation for an S-Corporation in Arkansas?
Yes, there is a fee to file articles of incorporation for an S-Corporation in Arkansas.

Also Read

Why You Should Start Arkansas S Corp

One of the key advantages of choosing to start an S Corp in Arkansas is the tax benefits that come with this type of corporate structure. S Corporations are pass-through entities, meaning that the profits and losses of the company are passed through to the shareholders who report them on their personal tax returns. This can result in potential tax savings compared to a traditional C Corporation, where profits are taxed at the corporate level and then again at the individual level when distributed as dividends.

In addition to tax benefits, starting an S Corp can also provide you with greater credibility and legitimacy in the eyes of customers, vendors, and potential investors. Many individuals and entities prefer to do business with corporations rather than sole proprietorships or partnerships, as corporations are seen as more established and secure. By forming an S Corp, you are signaling to others that you are serious about your business and committed to its long-term success.

Another advantage of starting an S Corp in Arkansas is the limited liability protection it offers to its shareholders. Unlike a sole proprietorship or partnership, where the owners are personally liable for the debts and obligations of the business, shareholders of an S Corp are typically only liable for the amount of their investment in the company. This can provide you with peace of mind knowing that your personal assets are protected in the event that your business faces financial difficulties.

Furthermore, starting an S Corp may also allow you to take advantage of certain employee benefits and retirement plans that are not available to owners of other types of businesses. For example, as an employee of your own S Corp, you may be able to participate in a tax-advantaged retirement plan such as a 401(k) or a health insurance plan that can help you save money on healthcare costs.

Overall, starting an S Corp in Arkansas offers a variety of benefits that can help set your business up for success. From tax advantages and increased credibility to limited liability protection and access to employee benefits, choosing this corporate structure may be the right decision for you and your company. If you are considering starting a new business or restructuring an existing one, it may be worth exploring the option of forming an S Corp to see how it could benefit you in the long run.

Conclusion

Forming an S-Corporation in Arkansas can be a beneficial decision for small business owners seeking liability protection, pass-through taxation, and easier transfer of ownership. By meeting the requirements set by the IRS and following the necessary steps, business owners can take advantage of an S-Corp’s unique structure and benefits. However, it is essential to consider the potential drawbacks, such as increased paperwork and limitations on ownership, before making a final decision. Consulting with a legal or financial professional can help business owners determine if an S-Corporation is right for their needs and goals.

Leave a Comment