Discussion Questions Worksheet
1. Jeff and Louis own an S Corporation. Jeff and Louis own 50% of the corporation each. Jeff's S Corporation stock basis at the beginning of the year was $150,000. Louis' was $120,000. The company is reporting an ordinary loss of $285,000. How can this loss affect Jeff's tax liability? What about Louis' tax liability?
2. Mary and Paul began a partnership 10 years ago that has been incredibly successful. Mary and Paul own 50% of the partnership each. Mary and Paul's accountant has suggested that they incorporate as an S corp. To do so, the partnership will exchange all its existing assets and liabilities for the new S Corp stock on October 1 of the current year. The partnership will then liquidate by distributing the acquired S Corp stock to Mary and Paul, in equal parts. What are some of the most relevant tax implications of this transaction? Do you believe Mary and Paul's accountant is providing good advice?
3. Anna and Brandon own an S Corporation. Anna and Brandon own 50% of the corporation each. Anna's S Corporation stock basis at the beginning of the year was $175,000. Brandon's was $225,000. The company is reporting an ordinary gain of $125,000 and will distribute land with a $85,000 adjusted basis and $425,000 FMV. How can this loss affect Anna's tax liability? What about Brandon's tax liability? What implications would this distribution have for each of them?
4. Johnson Corporation is a C Corp that has been in business since 2000. The corporation's accountant, John Smith, has recommended converting from C corporation status to S corporation status. Johnson Corporation has assets with a $540,000 adjusted basis and an $800,000 fair market value. Liabilities are $75,000. The corporation is owned solely by its founder, Ray Johnson. Currently, Johnson Corporation uses accrual accounting and has selected a fiscal year which ends on June 30. Do you believe the conversion to S status is appropriate? What implications would it have on the corporation's tax liability? What about Ray Johnson's personal tax liability?