How to Fill Form 8832: Entity Classification Election Made Simple

Filing paperwork for business entity classification can be confusing and time-consuming.

Luckily, by following a few key steps, you can easily complete IRS Form 8832 to elect the best tax status for your company.

In this guide, you'll get a breakdown of everything you need to know to properly classify your business entity with this important tax document, from what Form 8832 is used for to step-by-step filing instructions.

Introduction to Form 8832 and Entity Classification

Form 8832, also known as the Entity Classification Election form, allows eligible business entities to elect how they will be classified for federal tax purposes. Some key points about Form 8832 include:

What is Form 8832: A Gateway to Entity Classification Election

Form 8832 provides a way for businesses to choose how they are taxed by the IRS based on their entity type.
Eligible entities like LLCs use Form 8832 to initially select a classification like S-corp or C-corp status.
The form enables entities to change a prior classification that is no longer suitable for their situation.
Form 8832 acts as a gateway for entities to optimize their operations and minimize tax burdens.

Main Uses of Form 8832: Selecting and Changing Tax Classifications

The main reasons businesses file Form 8832 are:

Initial entity classification when first forming a business to elect taxation as a corporation, partnership, disregarded entity, etc.
Changing a prior classification if the current tax situation is no longer suitable.
Late entity classification relief if the deadline was missed to make an election when originally forming.

Overview of Business Entity Options: From Sole Proprietorships to C-corps

Some common entity classifications include:

Sole proprietorships: Simplest structure with pass-through taxes to owners. No special filing needed.
Partnerships: Pass-through entity with multiple owners. No special election filing required.
C-corporations: Separate legal entity taxed at corporate rates. Form 8832 election required.
S-corporations: Pass-through entity with limited liability. Special Form 2553 election required.
Limited liability companies (LLCs): Flexible hybrid entity. Default classification is partnership but can elect corporate status with Form 8832.

Each entity has pros and cons regarding ownership flexibility, liability protection, and tax implications that businesses must consider.

What is a reasonable cause statement 8832?

A reasonable cause statement for Form 8832 provides an explanation to the IRS for why you failed to file a timely entity classification election. This statement is required when filing a late election relief request.

Here are key things the reasonable cause statement should include:

A clear explanation of why you did not file Form 8832 by the deadline. For example, you may have been unaware of the filing requirement or you received incorrect professional advice.
Details supporting your explanation. Provide specifics like dates, names of advisors consulted, etc.
An acknowledgment that you now understand the entity classification requirements and take responsibility for the late filing.
Assurance you will comply with all such requirements going forward.

The reasonable cause statement shows the IRS you made an honest mistake and aims to file properly going forward. It demonstrates good faith in wanting to correct the late classification election.

The key is providing enough details and supporting information to show reasonable cause for missing the deadline. With a compelling reasonable cause statement, the IRS is more likely to grant you relief to file Form 8832 late.

Should a single member LLC file form 8832?

Single member LLCs have the option to file taxes as a C-corporation using Form 8832, Entity Classification Election. However, doing so does come with tradeoffs to consider:

Tax Rates

C-corps have a flat 21% tax rate, which is lower than the individual income tax rates LLC owners pay. This could reduce the overall tax burden.
However, C-corps are subject to double taxation - once at the corporate level and again if profits are distributed to owners. This double taxation generally eliminates any tax savings from the lower C-corp rates.

Liability Protection

Filing as a C-corp does not increase liability protection for LLC owners beyond what an LLC already provides. The LLC structure itself offers liability protection for owners.

Administrative Complexity

C-corps require more complex record-keeping, accounting, tax filings and administration than LLCs. There are more expenses associated with this added complexity.

Overall, most single member LLCs do not need to file Form 8832 simply to elect C-corp status. The double taxation and added administrative burdens often outweigh any potential tax savings. Exceptions could apply in certain niche circumstances, but most single member LLCs are better off keeping their default pass-through tax status. Consulting a tax professional can help determine if C-corp election is beneficial for your specific business.

What is the 75 day rule for form 8832?

The 75 day rule for Form 8832 refers to the effective date that can be chosen when filing the Entity Classification Election form. Specifically, when making an election to change the tax classification of an eligible entity, the effective date on Form 8832 cannot be more than 75 days before the date the form is filed and cannot be more than 12 months after the date the form is filed.

Here are some key points about the 75 day rule:

The effective date on Form 8832 must be between 75 days before and 12 months after the date you file the form. Any date in this range is valid.
If you need an effective date that is more than 75 days before the date you file Form 8832, you will need to request late election relief instead. The IRS may grant relief in certain circumstances.
If filing Form 8832 late and you qualify for late election relief, the effective date can be retroactive by up to 75 days before the date you intended to file the form.

For example, if you intended to file Form 8832 to elect S corporation status on January 1 but actually filed the form on March 15, the late effective date could be as early as January 16 with late election relief.

So in summary, pay close attention to the 75 day rule when choosing an effective date on Form 8832. Adhering to this rule ensures your entity classification election is valid without needing to request special permission from the IRS.

Determining the Right Time to File Form 8832

Filing Form 8832 for Newly Formed Entities

Newly formed entities like LLCs, partnerships, and corporations must file Form 8832 within 75 days of the date of formation to set their initial federal tax classification. This includes single-member LLCs, who may want to elect to be taxed as corporations instead of being taxed as sole proprietors by default.

It's important for new entities to file Form 8832 on time to avoid missing the deadline and being subject to default classification rules. Some key points:

File Form 8832 no later than 75 days after the date the entity was formed
Choose either to be taxed as a corporation or to be disregarded as a separate entity
Default rules apply if Form 8832 is not filed on time

Existing Entities Making Changes: When to File Form 8832

Already existing entities that want to change their federal tax classification can also file Form 8832, but some restrictions apply after the initial election.

For most entities, changes in election require IRS consent and can only be made every 5 years
Exceptions apply in some cases, like for newly registered foreign entities
File amended returns for the year the change is made and going forward

It's important to review the instructions for Form 8832 to determine eligibility before filing a change in entity classification. Supporting details on the reason for the change may need to be provided.

Navigating Form 8832 Late Election Relief and Examples

If an entity misses the deadline to file the initial Form 8832, late election relief may be available through one of two options:

Automatic relief: Available if filed within 3 years and 75 days of formation. No user fee required.
Private letter ruling: File Form 8832 late election relief beyond 3 years. Requires user fee payment.

Examples where late election relief may apply:

A new single-member LLC that wants to elect to be taxed as an S-corp files Form 8832 late
An existing partnership wants to change to an S-corp classification after missing deadline

Both options provide penalty relief. However, automatic relief is faster and avoids an IRS ruling. Understanding the late filing options can help entities correct issues with past Form 8832 deadlines.

Step-by-Step Form 8832 Instructions

Form 8832 is used to elect how a business entity is classified for federal tax purposes, such as a corporation, partnership, or disregarded entity. Here is a step-by-step guide to completing and filing Form 8832:

Required Identifying Information: EIN and More

The first section of Form 8832 requires key identifying information:

Name and address of the entity electing a classification
Employer Identification Number (EIN)
Date the entity was formed
Country under whose laws the entity was organized
Principal business activity
Name, address, and identifying number of the responsible party signing the form

Providing complete and accurate information is vital for proper processing of the election.

Select Desired Entity Classification: S-corp, C-corp, or Other

Next, you must select the tax classification you are electing for the entity:

C corporation
S corporation
Partnership
Disregarded entity

Make sure to consider the tax implications of each entity type. For example, S-corporations avoid double taxation but have eligibility requirements regarding number of shareholders.

Signature and Attestation: Finalizing Form 8832

The last step is signature and submission. An authorized member or owner of the entity must:

Sign and date Form 8832
Print their name, title, and contact phone number

Before signing, double check that all information is correct. Also note that some classifications require additional forms to be filed.

Once completed, mail Form 8832 to the IRS service center for your state. The election is usually effective 75 days after the IRS receives your form. You can also file the tax form electronically for faster processing.

Completing Form 8832 for Different Entities

Form 8832 allows businesses to elect how they want to be classified for federal tax purposes. Proper classification is important, as it determines how your business reports income, pays taxes, and more. Here is guidance on completing Form 8832 for common entity types:

How to Fill Out Form 8832 for LLC: Single-Member and Multiple-Member Options

Limited liability companies (LLCs) need to file Form 8832 if they want to elect a classification other than the default. Here are key points:

Single-member LLCs are taxed as sole proprietorships by default. To be taxed as a C-corp or S-corp instead, file Form 8832.
Multi-member LLCs are taxed as partnerships by default. To be taxed as a C-corp or S-corp, file Form 8832.
On Form 8832, enter your LLC's name and EIN. Select the box to change your classification and enter the desired classification.
The LLC needs to file Form 8832 within the first 75 days of the tax year you want the election to take effect.

So in summary, use Form 8832 to elect C-corp or S-corp status for your single or multi-member LLC within the 75 day window.

Electing C-corporation Status: Consequences for Self-Employment Taxes

When an LLC elects to be treated as a C-corporation by filing Form 8832, it can impact owners' liability for self-employment taxes:

C-corp income isn't subject to self-employment tax. Only the salaries paid to owner-employees are subject to payroll taxes.
This allows owners to take some earnings as dividends instead of salary. But reasonable salaries must still be paid and taxed.
Electing C-corp status removes the 15.3% self-employment tax burden on most of an LLC's profits.

So while the C-corp election can provide tax savings, owners must still pay themselves reasonable salaries subject to payroll taxes.

Choosing S-corp Classification: Filing Form 2553 Instructions

To elect S-corporation status after filing Form 8832 to become a C-corporation, you need to file Form 2553 instead. Key points:

File Form 2553 to elect S-corp status, including for an LLC taxed as a C-corp.
S-corp election takes effect for the next tax year if filed by March 15th. If filed after, it takes effect in the 2nd tax year.
Form 2553 needs to be signed by all LLC members and include other information like business activities.

So file Form 8832 first to become a C-corp, then follow with Form 2553 to elect S-corp status if desired. Form 2553 has separate instructions and a later deadline for the election to take effect.

After Filing Form 8832: Confirmation and Tax Implications

After submitting Form 8832 to the IRS, there are a few next steps to take in terms of receiving confirmation of your entity classification election and understanding the implications for tax reporting under the new classification.

Receive Confirmation from the IRS: Acknowledging Your Election

The IRS typically issues an acknowledgment letter within 60 days of receiving Form 8832. This letter will confirm they have processed your election for the entity to change classifications. Some key points on the confirmation process:

The effective date of the election will be specified on the confirmation letter. This is usually retroactive to the date the form was filed.
If you do not receive acknowledgment within 60 days, follow up with the IRS to ensure they received the form.
Keep the confirmation letter in your records going forward as proof of the elected classification.

So in summary, expect to receive official confirmation from the IRS within 1-2 months after filing Form 8832. This confirmation letter acts as your proof that the entity classification election was received and processed.

Report Taxes Under New Entity Classification: Adjusting to Changes

Changing your business entity classification via Form 8832 can impact how you report taxes going forward. Here are some key things to note on tax implications after the election:

Sole proprietorships to S-corp or C-corp: You will now file business taxes separately from personal taxes. Estimated quarterly tax payments need to be submitted.
LLC to S-corp or C-corp: Tax implications are similar to sole proprietorships noted above. Business income passes through to personal returns for S-corps, while C-corps file separate tax returns.
C-corp to S-corp: Change needs to be approved by the IRS and can impact loss carryovers, depreciation differences, and other tax attributes.

In summary, the new entity classification often changes how you will report business taxes. Consult a tax professional to ensure you adjust accordingly in terms of estimated payments, tax return filings, etc.

FAQs for Form 8832: Addressing Common Concerns

Form 8832 can be confusing for many taxpayers. Here are answers to some frequently asked questions to help clarify common issues.

Amending a Previous Form 8832: Corrections and Updates

If you need to update or correct a previously submitted Form 8832, you must file a new, amended form. Some key points:

Eligibility for amendments: You can amend a Form 8832 that was previously filed if there was an unintentional error or you unintentionally failed to file.
Deadline for amendments: Generally within 3 years and 75 days from the effective date on the previously filed Form 8832.
Process: File a new Form 8832 with the corrected information, checking the "Amended Return" box at the top of page 1. Attach an explanation of the changes. The amended return will supersede the previously filed return.
Effects of amendments: An amended Form 8832 may change when you can begin treating the entity as the newly elected classification. Work with a tax professional to understand implications.

International Entities and Form 8832: Foreign Eligible Entities

Foreign eligible entities have some limitations with Form 8832:

Eligible foreign entities: Only certain foreign business entities qualify to file Form 8832. These include foreign eligible entities that elect to be disregarded as entities separate from their owner.
Tax ID requirement: Foreign entities must have an EIN to file Form 8832. If you do not have an EIN, apply for one on Form SS-4 before submitting Form 8832.
Additional documentation: You may need to attach additional documentation to Form 8832 if you are a foreign entity. Check the current form instructions for details.
Impact on tax status: Electing a different tax classification may alter your federal tax obligations. Consult a tax advisor first.

All Revisions for Form 8832: Staying Updated with Tax Forms

As tax laws and IRS regulations change, Form 8832 gets updated periodically. Here's how to stay current:

Check the latest revisions: The most recently updated Form 8832 for the current tax year is always available on the IRS website. Compare it to your version.
Review the revision summary: The IRS lists a brief summary of all changes to the form and instructions near the bottom of the first page. Read this summary carefully with each update.
Confirm submission guidelines: With each revision, submission deadlines, addresses, and other guidelines may change. Verify you have the latest requirements before filing.
Get help: If you have questions about how recent revisions impact your ability to file Form 8832, consult with a tax professional or the IRS help line.

Staying up-to-date on the latest Form 8832 revisions is crucial to ensuring your election filing is seamless and accurate.

Conclusion: Ensuring Successful Entity Classification Elections

The key takeaways for mastering Form 8832 and entity classification elections include:

Key Takeaways: Mastering Form 8832 and Entity Classification

File Form 8832 to elect how a domestic eligible entity will be classified for federal tax purposes as a corporation, partnership, or disregarded entity. This determines how the entity's income is taxed.
The election generally takes effect 75 days after the date Form 8832 is filed. An exception applies for late entity classification relief.
A corporation offers liability protection but is subject to double taxation. A partnership avoids double taxation but partners have unlimited liability. A disregarded entity offers liability protection without double taxation.
Form 8832 must be signed by all members of a multiple-member LLC or by an authorized representative. For a single-member LLC, only the sole owner signs.
Eligible entities like LLCs and partnerships often use Form 8832 to elect S-corp status and avoid self-employment taxes. C-corps face double taxation but allow for greater growth.
Be aware of filing deadlines - both for initially making entity classification elections and for late election relief if the deadline is missed.

Carefully weighing factors like liability protection, pass-through taxation, and self-employment taxes can help businesses elect the best entity classification for their situation when filing Form 8832. Keeping the key takeaways and deadlines in mind makes the process smooth.