Washington & Co

S-Corp Savings Calculator

Estimate your tax savings with S-Corporation election

You Could Save
$12,336
per year

Your Business Details

Your total business profit (revenue minus expenses)

$100,000

IRS requires reasonable salary. Amounts above $176,100 are taxed at 2.9% (Medicare only)

$100,000

Not subject to self-employment tax

How it works

As an S-Corporation, you split your income between salary (subject to payroll tax) and distributions (not subject to self-employment tax). Self-employment tax is 15.3% up to $176,100 (Social Security + Medicare), then 2.9% above that (Medicare only). This calculator shows your potential savings compared to sole proprietorship taxation.

What is "Reasonable Salary"?

The IRS requires S-Corp owners to pay themselves a "reasonable salary" for services performed. This typically means compensation comparable to what similar businesses would pay for the same work. Common guidelines suggest 40-60% of net income as salary, but this varies by industry and role. Consult a tax professional for personalized guidance.

You Could Save

$12,336

per year in self-employment taxes

By switching from Sole Proprietor to S-Corp

Tiered Tax Rates Applied

Your income exceeds $176,100. The first $176,100 is taxed at 15.3% (Social Security + Medicare), and amounts above that are taxed at 2.9% (Medicare only).

Sole Proprietor

Current Situation
Total Income$200,000
Income subject to self-employment tax$27,636

Current: All income is subject to self-employment tax using tiered rates

S-Corporation

With S-Corp Election
Salary (taxed)$100,000
Payroll tax on salary$15,300
Distribution (not taxed)$100,000

With S-Corp: Only salary portion is subject to payroll tax; distributions avoid self-employment tax entirely

Note: This calculator shows self-employment tax savings only. Actual savings may vary based on QBI deduction impact, state taxes, etc. Consult a tax professional for personalized advice.