Structural Comparison
Choose the right foundation.
Compare LLC, S-Corp, C-Corp, and PLLC side by side. We’ve handled the details so you can choose with confidence.
Factors | Best for Small TeamsLLC | Tax-Efficient OwnersS-Corp | VC-Ready StartupsC-Corp | Licensed ProfessionalsPLLC |
|---|---|---|---|---|
Formation complexity | Low | Medium | Medium-High | Medium |
Personal liability shield | Partial (not malpractice) | |||
Federal taxation | Pass-through | Pass-through | Corporate (21%) | Pass-through |
Self-employment tax on profit | On salary only | |||
Ownership restrictions | None | US Citizens / GC only | None | Licensed pros only |
VC-friendly Attracts institutional capital | ||||
Foreign / visa owners OK | State-dependent | |||
Requires payroll setup | ||||
Formal governance (board, minutes) | Optional | |||
Best-fit customer | Solo founders, small teams | Profitable service biz | Startups, IPO track | Doctors, lawyers, CPAs |
| Start LLC | Start S-Corp | Start C-Corp | Start PLLC |
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