What is the normal Form 2553 deadline for a calendar-year business?

For a calendar-year business seeking an election effective January 1, Form 2553 is generally due by March 15. For an election effective on another date, the general rule is two months and 15 days after the start of the tax year the election will cover.

Can a new LLC request S-Corp treatment from its formation date?

Generally, yes. If the LLC wants the election effective from its formation date, it normally files Form 2553 within 75 days of that date, assuming it otherwise meets the S-corporation eligibility rules.

What should I prepare before an S-Corp election takes effect?

Prepare a payroll process, employer registrations that apply in your state, a reasonable-compensation approach, payroll tax deposit procedures, and accounting support for the S-corporation return. The exact requirements depend on your facts and state.

Does late-election relief apply automatically?

No. The IRS has a simplified relief procedure for some late elections, but the entity must meet the stated requirements and make the appropriate representations. Review the current Form 2553 instructions and consider professional advice for your facts.

S-Corp Election Timing: Form 2553 Deadline & Late Relief (2026)

# S-Corp Election Timing: Form 2553 Deadlines, Late Relief & Payroll Readiness Form 2553 is generally due no later than two months and 15 days after the start of the tax year the S-Corp election will cover. For a new LLC that wants the election effective from formation, that is normally 75 days from formation. This guide focuses on timing, late-election relief, and payroll readiness; use the LLC vs. S-Corp guide to decide whether the tax election is worth it. Know the Form 2553 window, what to do if you miss it, and which payroll tasks to prepare before an S-Corp election takes effect. Read the full article at https://solofilinglab.com/articles/s-corp-election-timing-window-income-math-late-election