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

If you want to start an LLC in Wyoming, there are things that you should consider. Wyoming 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 Wyoming, 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.

How to Form an S-Corporation in Wyoming

On this page, you’ll learn about the following:

What is an S-Corporation?
- Limitations and Requirements of S-Corp
How to Form an S-Corporation in Wyoming?
Costs of Forming an S-Corporation
Advantages of Forming an S-Corporation
Disadvantages of Forming an S-Corporation
FAQs

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 Wyoming if qualified for the limitations and requirements.

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How to Form an S-Corporation in Wyoming?

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

Step 1: Register a Business Name in Wyoming

After you have decided on the idea to start an S-Corp in Wyoming, 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 Wyoming 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 Wyoming.
Limit of restricted words that need a license in Wyoming
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 Wyoming 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 Wyoming.

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

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Step 3: File For Articles of Organization

The Articles of Organization is an important document to start your limited liability company (LLC). Wyoming Articles 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 Articles of Organization to be filed in WY Secretary of State, you need to pay a filing fee of $100. In Wyoming, the filing fee of forming an LLC is $100 (by mail and $102 online) .

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Step 4: Creating an Operating Agreement

After you have filed your Articles of Organization, the next step is to create an operating agreement in Wyoming. 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 Wyoming 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 Wyoming.

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

Once you have obtained your EIN and Articles 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 Wyoming, 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 Wyoming, including:

Filing Fees: When forming a corporation in Wyoming, you must file Articles of Incorporation with the Wyoming Secretary of State and pay a filing fee of $100 by mail filing.
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.
Franchise Tax: S-Corporations in Wyoming 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.
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 Wyoming 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 Wyoming are subject to the annual franchise tax, which can financially burden some businesses.

In an Wyoming 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 Wyoming 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 in Wyoming?

In Wyoming, an S-corporation is a small business that has received approval from the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) to have its income taxed on the personal level rather than at the corporate level.

How is an s-corporation in Wyoming different from other types of corporations?

Unlike other types of corporations in Wyoming, S-corporations are only taxed at the personal level since they’re considered “pass-through entities”.

What are the benefits of forming an s-corporation in Wyoming?

There are several benefits of forming an S-corporation in Wyoming, including tax savings, limited personal liability against business debts and obligations, and the ability to raise capital through the sale of shares.

What are the basic requirements to form an s-corporation in Wyoming?

The basic requirements to form an S-corporation in Wyoming include filing articles of incorporation with the Secretary of State, appointing a corporate agent for service of process, and obtaining any necessary state or local licenses and permits.

Can I form an s-corporation in Wyoming if I live outside of the state?

Yes. Anyone can form an S-corporation in Wyoming, regardless of whether or not they live in the state.

Do I need to have a physical address in Wyoming to form an s-corporation in the state?

Yes, you will need a physical address in the state of Wyoming to form an S-corporation.

Can I use a virtual office address to form an S-corporation in Wyoming?

Yes, as long as it is a valid Wyoming address with mail forwarding capabilities and a physical office.

How long does it take to form an s-corporation in Wyoming?

It can take up to several weeks to incorporate an S-corporation in Wyoming, depending on the workload of the Secretary of State’s office.

What are the fees associated with forming an s-corporation in Wyoming?

The filing fee to form an s-corporation in Wyoming is $100. Additionally, you may incur additional costs if you hire a lawyer or use a business formation service.

Are there any ongoing requirements to maintain an s-corporation in Wyoming?

Yes, there are ongoing requirements to maintain an S-corporation in Wyoming, including filing an annual report with the Secretary of State and holding regular board meetings.

Do all shareholders need to be residents of Wyoming to be a part of the s-corporation?

No, shareholders do not need to be residents of Wyoming to be a part of an S-corporation in the state.

What is the maximum number of shareholders allowed in an s-corporation in Wyoming?

S-corporations in Wyoming can have up to 100 shareholders.

What is the difference between an S-corporation and a Limited Liability Company (LLC) in Wyoming?

In Wyoming, the main difference between an S-corporation and an LLC is the way they are taxed. S-corporations are taxed at the personal level, while LLCs are taxed as a business.

Will I be able to switch from a corporation to an s-corporation in Wyoming?

Yes, you can elect S-corporation status at any point during the corporation’s lifetime.

Do I need an operating agreement for an s-corporation in Wyoming?

No, but it is highly recommended.

Does Wyoming require a minimum startup capital amount to form an s-corporation?

No, Wyoming does not require any minimum amount of startup capital to form an S-corporation.

Can an S-corporation in Wyoming have more than one class of stock?

No, an S-corporation in Wyoming cannot have more than one class of stock.

Can a foreigner form an s-corporation in Wyoming?

Yes, a foreigner can form an S-corporation in Wyoming as long as they have a valid Social Security number.

Can one person form an s-corporation in Wyoming?

Yes, one person can incorporate an S-corporation in Wyoming, but there must be at least one shareholder.

What is the process to dissolve an s-corporation in Wyoming?

The process to dissolve an S-corporation in Wyoming depends on the situation. For voluntary dissolution, the Registered Agent will file Articles of Dissolution after obtaining consent from the shareholders, liquidating its assets, and settling its liabilities.

Do I need to obtain a business license before forming an s-corporation in Wyoming?

It varies by location and type of business, but business licenses and permits may be required at the state and/or local level.

Can I form a professional corporation as an s-corporation in Wyoming?

Yes, you can form a professional corporation as an S-corporation in Wyoming.

Will I need to pay federal and state taxes for my s-corporation if I’m a Wyoming resident?

Yes, you will need to pay federal and state taxes for your S-corporation, regardless of where you reside.

Are there any tax incentives for forming an s-corporation in Wyoming?

Wyoming does not offer any specific tax incentives for forming an S-corporation.

Can an LLC convert into an s-corporation in Wyoming?

Yes, an LLC can be converted into an S-corporation in Wyoming, as long as it meets the requirements.

Is a Wyoming s-corporation a good choice for restaurant owners?

S-corporations can be a good choice for restaurant owners in Wyoming given the limited liability protection and advantages in taxation.

Will I need to file a separate tax return for my s-corporation in Wyoming?

Yes, you will need to file a separate tax return for your S-corporation in Wyoming.

What is the personal liability of shareholders in an s-corporation in Wyoming?

Shareholders hold limited personal liability for debts or legal actions against the S-Corporation.

Why should I start an S-Corporation in Wyoming?

Wyoming is one of the most business-friendly states with no corporate or personal income tax.

What is an S-Corporation in Wyoming?

An S-Corporation in Wyoming is a type of corporation that passes its income, losses, deductions, and credits through to shareholders for federal tax purposes.

How do I form an S-Corporation in Wyoming?

You can form an S-Corporation in Wyoming by filing the Articles of Incorporation with the Wyoming Secretary of State.

Can an S-Corporation be formed in Wyoming without an attorney?

Yes, you can form an S-Corporation in Wyoming without an attorney.

What are the benefits of forming an S-Corporation in Wyoming?

The benefits of forming an S-Corporation in Wyoming include protection against personal liability, pass-through taxation, and a favorable business climate.

How much does it cost to form an S-Corporation in Wyoming?

The cost of forming an S-Corporation in Wyoming depends on the type of incorporation service you use; the cost ranges from $100 to $1,000.

How long does it take to form an S-Corporation in Wyoming?

It takes 1-2 weeks to form an S-Corporation in Wyoming.

Can I use a PO Box in Wyoming as my business address for filing an S-Corporation?

No, you need a physical street address in Wyoming to file for an S-Corporation.

What are the annual fees for an S-Corporation in Wyoming?

The annual fees for an S-Corporation in Wyoming are around $50.

Is there a minimum number of shareholders needed to form an S-Corporation in Wyoming?

Yes, to form an S-Corporation in Wyoming, you need at least one shareholder.

How do I elect S-Corporation status for my Wyoming corporation?

To elect S-Corporation status for your Wyoming corporation, you must file IRS Form 2553 with the Internal Revenue Service.

Can you be the only shareholder or owner of an S-Corporation in Wyoming?

Yes, you can be the only shareholder or owner of an S-Corporation in Wyoming.

Are foreign shareholders allowed in an S-Corporation in Wyoming?

Yes, an S-Corporation in Wyoming can have foreign shareholders.

Is an S-Corporation in Wyoming obliged to pay federal income tax returns?

No, an S-Corporation in Wyoming will pass-through income to its shareholders making the shareholders responsible for paying federal income tax returns.

Is an LLC and an S-Corporation the same thing in Wyoming?

No, an S-Corporation and LLC are two separate business structures; LLC is a type of unincorporated business structure while an S-Corporation is a type of corporation.

Can an S-Corporation in Wyoming own another corporation or LLC?

Yes, an S-Corporation in Wyoming can own another corporation or LLC.

Is an S-Corporation in Wyoming protected by the Wyoming Limited Liability Company Act?

No, an S-Corporation and LLC are two separate business structures.

Can a non-US citizen own and operate an S-Corporation in Wyoming?

Yes, a non-US citizen can own and operate an S-Corporation in Wyoming.

What is the process of adding shareholders to an S-Corporation in Wyoming?

To add shareholders to an S-Corporation in Wyoming, they must acquire shares of stocks.

What is the process of removing a shareholder from an S-Corporation in Wyoming?

To remove a shareholder from an S-Corporation in Wyoming, the shareholder must sell their shares or voluntarily withdraw from the corporation.

Is the corporation required to hold annual meetings in Wyoming?

No, Wyoming laws do not require S-Corporations to hold annual meetings unless stated in the by-laws.

Will the Wyoming Secretary of State send annual reminders to renew my S-Corporation?

Yes, the Wyoming Secretary of State will send annual reminders to renew the S-Corporation.

Can an S-Corporation be converted to a C-Corporation in Wyoming?

Yes, an S-Corporation in Wyoming can be converted to a C-Corporation.

Can an S-Corporation in Wyoming be a non-profit?

No, an S-Corporation in Wyoming must have limited liability for profits.

Can I have multiple S-Corporations in Wyoming?

Yes, you can have multiple S-Corporations in Wyoming.

Does Wyoming protect corporate veil piercing in courts?

Yes, Wyoming law upholds the corporate veil against any attempts to pierce it unless there is extreme negligence, fraud, or abusive behavior involved.

What happens if I don’t file my S-Corporation taxes in Wyoming?

If the S-Corporation in Wyoming doesn’t file its taxes, each shareholder may be liable for paying outstanding taxes.

How often does an S-Corporation in Wyoming need to file payroll tax returns with the IRS?

An S-Corporation in Wyoming needs to file payroll tax returns with the IRS quarterly.

Why You Should Start Wyoming S Corp

Wyoming is known for its business-friendly regulations and tax advantages, making it an appealing location for entrepreneurs looking to establish their company. By choosing to start an S Corp in Wyoming, you can take advantage of several key benefits that can help you save money and protect your personal assets.

First and foremost, forming an S Corporation in Wyoming can provide you with significant tax benefits. S Corporations are considered pass-through entities, meaning that profits and losses are passed on to the shareholders, who report them on their individual tax returns. This can result in substantial tax savings compared to other business structures, making it an attractive option for smaller businesses looking to maximize their earnings.

Additionally, Wyoming has no corporate income tax, making it an especially appealing location for businesses looking to minimize their tax liability. By establishing an S Corp in Wyoming, you can take advantage of these tax benefits and keep more of your hard-earned money in your pocket.

Another key advantage of starting an S Corporation in Wyoming is the limited liability protection it provides for shareholders. By forming an S Corp, you can separate your personal assets from your business liabilities, reducing your risk of personal financial loss in the event of a lawsuit or other legal issue. This can provide you with peace of mind knowing that your personal assets are safeguarded from any potential business debts or legal claims.

In addition to tax benefits and liability protection, forming an S Corporation in Wyoming can also offer greater credibility and legitimacy to your business. S Corporations are seen as more professional and established than other business structures, which can help you attract investors, secure financing, and attract potential clients or customers.

Overall, choosing to start a Wyoming S Corporation can provide your business with numerous advantages that can help you thrive and grow in today’s competitive business environment. With its favorable tax laws, limited liability protection, and enhanced credibility, forming an S Corp in Wyoming can be a wise decision for any entrepreneur looking to establish a strong foundation for their business.

If you’re considering starting a business or restructuring your existing company, the Wyoming S Corporation is definitely worth exploring. By taking advantage of the many benefits it offers, you can position your business for success and achieve your goals more efficiently and effectively.

Conclusion

Forming an S-Corporation in Wyoming 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.