LLC vs S-Corp in Houston Texas: Which Structure Saves You More on Taxes?

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LLC vs S-Corp in Houston Texas: Which Structure Saves You More on Taxes?

 

LLC vs S-Corp in Houston, Texas

Choosing between an LLC vs S-Corp in Houston Texas can significantly impact your tax bill, compliance requirements, and long-term growth strategy. In this guide, we compare both structures from a tax, legal, and strategic perspective so you can make an informed decision for your business.

What Is an LLC in Texas?

A Limited Liability Company (LLC) is a popular choice for Houston small businesses due to its flexible compliance requirements and strong liability protection. On the tax side, LLCs offer pass-through taxation by default, with the option to elect S-Corp taxation later if it becomes more advantageous.

Key Benefits of an LLC

  • Pass-through taxation – profits are reported on the owner’s personal tax return.
  • Limited liability – protects personal assets from business debts.
  • Simple setup and maintenance with the Texas Secretary of State.
  • Ability to convert to S-Corp taxation when profits grow.

What Is an S-Corp?

An S-Corporation (S-Corp) is not a separate business entity, it is a tax classification elected with the IRS. S-Corps are favored for their ability to reduce self-employment taxes by splitting income between a salary and distributions.

S-Corp Advantages

  • Avoids double taxation.
  • Lower self-employment tax through salary/distribution split.
  • Pass-through taxation with enhanced tax planning opportunities.

LLC vs S-Corp in Houston Texas – Key Differences

Feature LLC S-Corp
Taxation Pass-through by default Pass-through with salary/distribution split
Self-Employment Taxes 100% of profits subject to SE tax Salary taxed; distributions not subject to SE tax
Compliance Minimal Requires payroll + IRS Form 1120-S
Ownership Unlimited members Max 100 U.S. shareholders
Profit Distribution Flexible Must be proportional to share ownership
Example:

A Houston LLC earns $100,000 net profit. As an LLC: ~15.3% self-employment tax applies to the full $100k. As an S-Corp: Salary $50k + $50k distribution → self-employment tax applies only to the salary.

Which Structure Saves More on Taxes in Texas?

For many small business owners earning over $60,000 annually, the LLC vs S-Corp in Houston Texas comparison often favors the S-Corp due to potential self-employment tax savings, along with other deductions.

  • Self-employment tax reduction
  • Business expense deductions
  • Health insurance write-offs for owners
  • Retirement plan contributions (SEP IRA, Solo 401k)

Learn more at: IRS S-CorporationsTexas Franchise Tax

Not sure what’s right for your business?
Schedule a free consultation with Abbas Accounting & Tax PLLC

 

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