Delaware Franchise Tax: What You Need to Know

Delaware is well-known for its business-friendly environment and a flexible corporate law framework, making it a top choice for incorporating companies. However, businesses operating in Delaware must comply with the state’s Franchise Tax requirements.

In this blog, we’ll explain what the Delaware Franchise Tax is, who must pay it (including details for LLCs, LLPs, Corporations, S Corporations, etc.), key payment deadlines, how the tax is calculated using different methods, and what penalties you might face for non-compliance. We’ll also cover the process for paying the tax and share some expert tips to help you manage your compliance. 

What Is the Delaware Franchise Tax? 

The Delaware Franchise Tax is an annual fee that corporations, limited liability companies (LLCs), and limited partnerships (LLPs) must pay to the state of Delaware. It is not a tax on income but rather a fee for the privilege of being incorporated or doing business in the state. This tax supports Delaware’s legal and regulatory infrastructure and contributes to the overall administration of corporate law in the state. 

Who Must Pay the Delaware Franchise Tax? 

All companies incorporated or registered in Delaware must pay the Franchise Tax, but the amount you owe depends on your business structure: 

• Corporations: Traditional C Corporations and S Corporations must pay the tax based on either the Authorized Shares Method or the Assumed Par Value Capital Method. The minimum tax is often determined by the number of authorized shares and the company’s overall asset base.
• Sole-Props/LLPs: Delaware sole-proprietors and limited partnerships pay a flat annual tax. Although these entities enjoy the benefits of limited liability and flexible management structures, they are subject to a standard tax rate that differs from corporations. 
• Other Structures: Other business entities such as partnerships or specific entity types may have their own tax rates. For SEO purposes, businesses often search for terms like LLC DE Franchise Tax amount, LLP Delaware Franchise Tax, Corp Delaware Franchise Tax, and S Corp Delaware Franchise Tax to understand their specific obligations. 

Deadlines for Paying the Franchise Tax 

Deadlines for the Delaware Franchise Tax vary depending on the business structure: 

• Corporations: Most corporations must file and pay the Franchise Tax by March 1 of each year. However, if you have a foreign corporation or another specific entity type, the deadline might differ. 
• LLCs/LLPs: Delaware limited liability companies and limited partnerships typically have a later deadline, often on June 1 of each year. 

It is crucial to confirm your specific deadline with Delaware’s Division of Corporations or your tax professional, as failing to meet these deadlines can result in additional penalties and interest. 

How to Calculate the Delaware Franchise Tax for Corporations 

For corporations, Delaware offers two methods for calculating the Franchise Tax: the Authorized Shares Method and the Assumed Par Value Capital Method. You must compute your tax liability using both methods and pay the lesser amount. 

Authorized Shares Method

Under this method, the tax is calculated based on the number of authorized shares your corporation has, regardless of whether they are issued or outstanding. The tax rate can increase significantly if your corporation has a large number of authorized shares. 

Assumed Par Value Capital Method 

This method considers both your corporation’s total gross assets and the number of issued shares. The key calculation is as follows: 

1. Divide your total gross assets by your total issued shares, carrying the result to six decimal places. This figure represents your assumed par value. 
2. Apply the relevant tax rate based on the resulting assumed par value and other factors specified by Delaware law. 

It’s important to run these calculations carefully. Many businesses use tax software or consult with a professional to ensure the numbers are accurate and that they choose the method resulting in the lowest tax liability. 

Calculating Franchise Tax for LLCs and LLPs

For LLCs, LLPs, and similar business structures, Delaware typically imposes a flat annual tax rather than a variable one based on shares or assets. This flat tax is designed to simplify the process for smaller and less complex entities. Although the exact amount can vary, these businesses generally pay a standard fee each year, making budgeting easier. 

Penalties for Late Payment or Non-Compliance 

Failing to pay your Delaware Franchise Tax on time can result in severe penalties, including: 

• Late Fees: Additional charges that increase over time based on how late the payment is. ● Interest: Accumulated interest on any unpaid tax amounts.
• Loss of Good Standing: Failure to pay the tax can lead to your company losing its status as a “good standing” entity in Delaware, which may affect your ability to conduct business and access capital. 
• Administrative Actions: Continued non-payment can result in the state taking administrative actions, including the possibility of dissolving your corporation. 

Staying on top of deadlines and ensuring accurate calculations are essential to avoid these costly penalties. 

How to Pay the Delaware Franchise Tax 

Paying your Delaware Franchise Tax is straightforward if you follow these steps: 

1. Prepare Your Financials: Ensure that all relevant data regarding your authorized shares, issued shares, gross assets, and any applicable benefits or deductions is up to date. 
2. Choose the Correct Calculation Method: For corporations, compute your tax liability using both the Authorized Shares Method and the Assumed Par Value Capital Method, and select the lower amount. 
3. File Online: Delaware’s Division of Corporations provides an online portal where you can file your Franchise Tax report and make payments. This streamlined system is designed to help businesses comply quickly and efficiently. 
4. Confirm Payment: Once submitted, confirm that your payment has been processed. Keep a copy of the payment confirmation for your records. 

Keep in mind, this is filed/paid separately from the business's annual income tax returns. If you’re unsure about any step in the process, consult with a tax professional to ensure you’re meeting all requirements and deadlines.

Conclusion 

The Delaware Franchise Tax is a critical annual requirement for businesses incorporated or operating in Delaware. Understanding what the tax is, who must pay it, and how it is calculated using methods like the Authorized Shares Method and the Assumed Par Value Capital Method is essential for maintaining compliance and minimizing your tax liability. Additionally, knowing the deadlines—March 1 for corporations and June 1 for LLCs/LLPs—and the penalties for late payment can help you avoid costly mistakes. 

For corporations, carefully calculate your tax using both methods and pay the lower amount, while LLCs and LLPs benefit from a more straightforward flat fee. Ensure your financial records are accurate and up to date to facilitate smooth filing and payment. If you ever feel uncertain about any aspect of the Franchise Tax, consult with a professional to get personalized guidance. 

At LedgerFi, we specialize in helping businesses navigate complex tax requirements. Whether you’re an LLC, LLP, corporation, or an S Corp, we can help you understand your Delaware Franchise Tax obligations and ensure you’re in compliance year after year. Contact us today for expert assistance and make tax season a breeze. 

By staying informed and proactive about your tax obligations, you can ensure that your business continues to thrive without unnecessary penalties or administrative hassles.