The Legal Column: S or C? Incorporation and Taxes

My last article discussed some of the differences between sole proprietorships, partnerships, and S and C corporations (see Legal, 3/92). Since more and more small contractors are incorporating, it makes sense to take a closer look at the differences between S and C corporate forms. Most of these have to do with taxes, though some have to do with the structure of the corporation. If you’re choosing or changing corporate forms, bear in mind that tax laws can and do change, and there can be costs involved with changing your corporate status or liquidating the corporation in response to tax changes. Consider carefully where your company will go in the next few years, and be sure to consult an accountant or attorney