Essential Tips for S-Corp Tax Preparation in Houston

Looking for expert help with your S-Corporation tax preparation needs? Look no further than Molen & Associates. Our team of experienced accountants and tax experts understand the complex tax requirements and regulations that come with running an S-Corporation, and we are committed to delivering accurate, reliable results every time.

With over 40 years of experience and in-depth knowledge of S-Corporation tax law, we can help you navigate the complexities of this type of business structure. Whether you need assistance preparing your taxes or dealing with IRS issues, we have the expertise and resources needed to get the job done quickly and effectively.

So if you’re looking for a trusted partner to help with all your S-Corporation tax preparation needs, look no further than Molen & Associates. We’ll work tirelessly to ensure that you get the most from your business, so contact us today to learn more about how we can help!

What is an S-Corp?

An S Corporation, or S Corp, is a type of business that gets special treatment for taxes. It’s called “S Corporation” because it follows rules from a part of the tax code known as Subchapter S. This kind of business is helpful for small to medium-sized business owners who want to save money on taxes and also protect their personal property.

One of the biggest benefits of an S Corp is something called “pass-through taxation.” This means the business itself doesn’t pay income taxes. Instead, the profits or losses of the business go directly to the owners, called shareholders. Then, each owner reports their share on their personal tax return. This helps avoid “double taxation,” where both the business and the owner pay taxes on the same money.

Another great thing about an S Corp is that it gives legal protection. If the business gets into debt or legal trouble, the personal assets (like your house or car) of the owner are usually safe. The law treats the business and the owner as separate people.

S Corporations also help save money on self-employment taxes. When you’re a sole owner or in a partnership, you pay self-employment tax on all profits. But with an S Corp, owners only pay this tax on the salary they take. Any other money they get from the business (called distributions) is not taxed the same way.

This type of business can also make you look more professional. Clients, investors, and banks may trust your business more when it is an S Corporation.

To sum it up, an S Corporation can help you:

• Save money on taxes.
  
• Protect your personal stuff. 
• Look more professional. 
• Be more trusted by banks and investors. 

But there are rules to follow, and you have to stay organized with your tax filings. That’s why it’s smart to get help from a tax expert or accountant when setting up and running an S Corporation.

Benefits of Electing S Corporation Status

Choosing S Corporation status offers several advantages:

• Pass-Through Taxation: Profits and losses are reported on shareholders’ personal tax returns, avoiding corporate income tax. 
• Limited Liability Protection: Shareholders are typically not personally responsible for business debts and liabilities. 
• Self-Employment Tax Savings: Only salaries (not distributions) are subject to self-employment taxes. 

Credibility: Operating as an S Corp can enhance credibility with customers, vendors, and potential investors.

How We Can Help Lower Your Tax Bill With an S-Corporation

At Molen & Associates, we specialize in helping small businesses lower their overall tax liability. If you are currently filing as an LLC or Schedule C, we can help you save money by using an S-Corporation. Learn more here.

If you are a new business or are new to Molen & Associates, call us at 281-440-6279 to schedule a complimentary “Needs Analysis” with one of our account managers. 

Additionally, as an S-Corp owner, we’ll work with you to make sure you’re taking advantage of all the deductions and credits available to you as an S-Corp owner. We’ll also help you prepare your return so that you can be confident it’s accurate and complete before you file. 

If you’re thinking of forming an S-Corp, or if you already have one, you’ll need to know how to prepare your taxes. That’s where Molen & Associates comes in. We’re experts in S-Corp tax preparation and we can help you every step of the way.

Should I file as an S-Corp or C-Corp?

As a business owner, you have a lot of things to think about when it comes to taxes. But one of the most important decisions you’ll make is whether to file as an S-Corp, C-Corp or some other entity. If you’re not sure which one is right for your business, our team at Molen & Associates can help. We specialize in S-Corp tax preparation for businesses in Houston, Texas. Keep reading to learn more about S-Corps and how we can help you lower your tax bill.

Filing Requirements for S Corporations

Annual Tax Filing Obligations

S Corporations must file an annual tax return using Form 1120-S. This form reports the corporation’s income, deductions, gains, and losses. Additionally, each shareholder receives a Schedule K-1, detailing their share of the corporation’s income, which they must report on their personal tax returns.

Employment and Payroll Tax Responsibilities

If the S Corporation has employees, it must:

• Withhold Employment Taxes: Including federal income tax, Social Security, and Medicare.
  
• File Quarterly Reports: Submit Form 941 quarterly to report wages paid and taxes withheld.
• File Annual Reports: Submit Form 940 annually for federal unemployment taxes.

Do S Corporations File Tax Returns?

Yes, absolutely—S Corporations must file tax returns.

Although income is passed through to the shareholders, the S Corporation itself is still required to file an informational return with the IRS each year. This return details the company’s income, deductions, and distribution of earnings.

Required Form:

• Form 1120-S: U.S. Income Tax Return for an S Corporation

This form is submitted annually and includes key details such as gross receipts, business expenses, officer compensation, and shareholder allocations.

What Is an S Corporation Income Tax Return?

An S Corporation income tax return refers to the annual filing (Form 1120-S) submitted by the business. Unlike C Corporations that pay corporate taxes, S Corporations use this return to report income and pass it through to shareholders, who then report it on their individual returns using Schedule K-1.

Key Parts of the S Corp Income Tax Return Include:

• Total income and deductions
• Officer wages (which must be reasonable)
• Distributions to shareholders
• Credits and carryovers
• Assets and depreciation schedules

This return is due by March 15th each year (or the next business day), and extensions are available by filing Form 7004.

What’s Included in Professional S Corporation Tax Preparation?

At Molen & Associates, our S Corporation tax preparation services are built to simplify the process while ensuring full IRS compliance.

Here’s what you can expect when we handle your return:

✅ Accurate Form 1120-S Filing & S Corporation Tax Preparation in Houston, TX

If you’re a small business owner in Houston, Texas, our team at Molen & Associates can help you prepare your S-Corp tax return and take advantage of all the deductions and credits available to you. Contact us today to learn more about how we can help lower your overall tax liability. We look forward to hearing from you soon! 

✅ Shareholder Schedule K-1s

We generate detailed Schedule K-1s for each shareholder, outlining their share of income, deductions, and credits.

✅ Reasonable Compensation Guidance

We’ll help you determine and document a reasonable salary for S Corp officers—one of the most important (and most audited) elements of an S Corporation return.

✅ Tax Planning Support

Our team provides personalized strategies to minimize your tax burden, from maximizing deductions to understanding the tax implications of distributions.

✅ Year-Round Support

Unlike seasonal tax chains, Molen & Associates is available all year long to answer questions and support your business growth.

Frequently Asked Questions About S Corporation Tax Returns

Do S Corporations File Tax Returns Separately from Owners?

Yes. The S Corp files Form 1120-S, and shareholders report their income via Schedule K-1 on their personal Form 1040.

Can an S Corporation Pay Zero Taxes?

Technically, yes. The S Corporation itself pays no federal income tax—but the shareholders pay tax on their share of the income. Additionally, payroll and state-level taxes may still apply.

What If My S Corp Has No Income?

You still must file a return. Even if your S Corporation had zero activity or revenue, the IRS expects a timely informational filing (Form 1120-S). Failing to file can trigger penalties.

Is an Extension Available for S Corporation Tax Returns?

Yes. You can file Form 7004 to request a 6-month extension. However, this doesn’t extend the time to pay any taxes due—it just gives more time to submit paperwork.

Final Thoughts: Get the Most from Your S Corporation with the Right Tax Partner

If you’re operating as an S Corp, accurate and timely S Corporation tax preparation isn’t just a good idea—it’s a necessity. The return might be “informational,” but the details matter, and IRS scrutiny is real.

At Molen & Associates, we’ve spent over 40 years helping business owners navigate tax season with confidence. From startups to businesses with $20M in revenue, we know how to support your growth while minimizing risk.

Let us take the pressure off tax season so you can focus on running your business. Whether you’re local to Houston or anywhere in the U.S., we’re here to help.

Need help with your S Corporation tax return?
 Contact us today to schedule your tax preparation or planning session. Let’s make this your most stress-free filing year yet.

📞 (281) 440-6279