Limited number of shareholders: An S corp cannot have more than 100 shareholders, meaning it can't go public and limiting its ability to raise capital from new investors.
An S corporation can have only one class of stock, although it can have both voting and non-voting shares. Therefore, there can't be different classes of investors who are entitled to different dividends or distribution rights. Also, there cannot be more than 100 shareholders.
Distributions must not exceed a shareholder's stock basis. Shareholder-employees must take a reasonable salary before distributions. Disproportionate distributions can cause tax issues and disputes. Solvency must be maintained before making shareholder distributions.
To qualify for S corporation status, the corporation must meet the following requirements: Be a domestic corporation. Have only allowable shareholders. Have no more than 100 shareholders. Have only one class of stock.
Unlike sole proprietorships, a corporation can be owned by multiple people.
LLCs can have an unlimited number of members; S corps can have no more than 100 shareholders (owners).