Merger model questions: pass through entity (S corp) into C corp

Hi all,

I'm working on a merger model for a merger between a pass through entity(S corp) and C corp, and I find myself in unfamiliar territory. Can any of you point me in the direction of materials on the subject? A couple questions I have:

  • correct process for normalizing historical S corp earnings for owner's compensation (not included above the line in their historical financials) - and most importantly - how to adjust (or if i should adjust) historical financials for taxes (should I apply C corps tax rate to S corps past financials?)

  • determining optimal deal structure (taxable/non-taxable)

If you know of a good resource/reference on the topic, I would greatly appreciate your help!

Thanks, Ven

4 Comments
 

StatementStudies.com and other resources provide you with benchmark data regarding compensation. You can also contact ERI. They perform studies for this very thing, by region.

Typically I include a PTE benefit, but for a merger you'll have to compare apples to apples. I would make normalizations and then tax effect the earnings unless their is a specific tax play that they're aiming for. Make sure you don't leave money on the table.

 

Nemo assumenda magni reiciendis et soluta nesciunt. Debitis dolores occaecati commodi.

Career Advancement Opportunities

August 2026 Investment Banking

  • Evercore 01 99.5%
  • Moelis & Company 01 98.9%
  • JPMorgan 01 98.4%
  • Morgan Stanley 08 97.8%
  • Goldman Sachs 02 97.3%

Overall Employee Satisfaction

August 2026 Investment Banking

  • Moelis & Company No 99.5%
  • Evercore No 98.9%
  • Morgan Stanley 01 98.4%
  • Banco Santander 02 97.8%
  • BMO Capital Markets 12 97.3%

Professional Growth Opportunities

August 2026 Investment Banking

  • Evercore 01 99.5%
  • Moelis & Company 01 98.9%
  • Morgan Stanley 07 98.4%
  • Goldman Sachs 01 97.8%
  • JPMorgan No 97.3%

Total Avg Compensation

August 2026 Investment Banking

  • Vice President (16) $429
  • Associates (50) $259
  • 3rd+ Year Analyst (8) $210
  • 2nd Year Analyst (25) $178
  • Intern/Summer Associate (14) $159
  • 1st Year Analyst (84) $151
  • Intern/Summer Analyst (75) $101
notes
16 IB Interviews Notes

“... there’s no excuse to not take advantage of the resources out there available to you. Best value for your $ are the...”

Leaderboard

success
From 10 rejections to 1 dream investment banking internship

“... I believe it was the single biggest reason why I ended up with an offer...”