Best S-Corp Formation Services in 2026 — Save on Self-Employment Tax

An S-Corp election can save self-employed founders thousands in self-employment taxes each year. But setting up an S-Corp correctly — filing Form 2553 on time, maintaining payroll, and meeting IRS requirements — requires the right service. Here are the best S-Corp formation services in 2026, ranked.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is an S-Corp and how does it save money?

An S-Corp is a tax election that allows business income to pass through to owners while splitting compensation into salary (subject to self-employment tax) and distributions (not subject to SE tax). For profitable businesses, this can save thousands annually. Lovie's AI calculates your estimated savings based on your revenue.

When should I file Form 2553 for S-Corp election?

You must file IRS Form 2553 within 75 days of forming your entity, or by March 15th for the election to take effect in the current tax year. Lovie alerts you to this deadline and guides you through the filing process.

Do I need to run payroll as an S-Corp owner?

Yes — S-Corp owners who work in the business must pay themselves a 'reasonable salary' via payroll before taking distributions. Lovie helps you understand reasonable compensation benchmarks for your industry and sets up payroll reminders.

Can an LLC elect S-Corp status?

Yes. An LLC can elect to be taxed as an S-Corp by filing Form 2553. You keep the LLC structure but gain S-Corp tax treatment. This is the most common approach for small business owners. Lovie handles both the LLC formation and the S-Corp election.

How much does it cost to set up an S-Corp with Lovie?

Lovie charges $0 for formation (you pay the state filing fee). The $20/month subscription includes everything: registered agent, EIN, Form 2553 guidance, compliance alerts, and ongoing AI support. No hidden fees.

Start your formation with Lovie — $20/month, everything included.