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The Daily Insight

Can an entity own shares in an S Corp?

Author

James Craig

Published Feb 21, 2026

S Corporation Ownership Limits The IRS has established specific limits for the individuals and entities that can own shares in an S corporation. Business trusts can not purchase or own S corp shares. Limitations: Corporations may not own shares in an S corp, nor can non-resident aliens or partnerships.

What happens when owner of corporation dies?

Unlike sole proprietorships, corporations do not die automatically when a business owner dies. Instead, when a corporation owner dies, their estate becomes the new owner of the business. This could result in your executor being responsible with managing not only decisions for your estate but also your business.

What happens to shares when the owner dies?

When a shareholder dies the right to his interest in the shares will pass to whoever inherits them under his will or intestacy. The deceased shareholder’s rights will be administered by his or her executors (if there is a will) or administrators of the estate if the shareholder has died intestate.

Who are the private companies that went private?

The company also operates in the distribution, transportation, and storage of energy. The company went private in May 2007, following a buyout from American International Group ( AIG ), The Carlyle Group, Goldman Sachs Capital Partners, and Riverstone Holdings LLC for $21.6 billion.

Can a multiple shareholder’s Corp own shares in another s Corp?

When it created the “S corp” structure, Congress intended that it be used only by smaller businesses — indeed, the law refers to S corps as “small business corporations.” To that end, the law tightly restricts their ownership. A multiple-shareholder S corp can own shares in another S corp, but only under very specific circumstances.

Can a private company be sold on the stock market?

Private shares cannot be sold as easily. Because they represent a stake in a company that is not listed on any exchange, the shareholder has to find a willing buyer. In addition, the company must approve the sale.

When was the last time a company went private?

The company went private in May 2007, following a buyout from American International Group Inc. ( AIG ), The Carlyle Group, Goldman Sachs Capital Partners, and Riverstone Holdings LLC for $21.6 billion.