Form 1120 for Foreign-Owned LLCs: What You Need to Know (2025 Tax Year)
Key Takeaways
- Foreign-owned single-member LLCs file a pro forma (simplified) Form 1120
- The 1120 serves as a cover return for Form 5472 — it does not report income tax
- Include basic entity information; leave income/deduction lines blank or at zero
- Filing deadline is April 15 for calendar-year entities; must be mailed or faxed
Form 1120 for Disregarded Entities
If you own a foreign-owned single-member LLC, you may be surprised to learn that you need to file Form 1120 — normally a corporate income tax return. However, in your case, the Form 1120 is filed as a pro forma return, meaning it is a simplified version used solely as a vehicle to attach Form 5472.
What to Include on the Pro Forma 1120
The pro forma Form 1120 requires basic entity information: the LLC's name, address, EIN (Employer Identification Number), date of incorporation, and the tax year covered. Income and deduction lines are typically left blank or show zero, since the disregarded entity's income is not reported on this form.
The key purpose is to establish the LLC as the reporting entity and provide the structural framework for the attached Form 5472.
Filing Requirements for 2025 Tax Year
For the 2025 tax year (filed in 2026), use the most current version of Form 1120 available on irs.gov. The filing deadline is April 15, 2026 for calendar-year entities. Remember that Form 5472 for disregarded entities cannot be e-filed — you must mail or fax your return to the IRS.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does my disregarded entity LLC actually owe corporate taxes?
No. The pro forma Form 1120 shows zero tax liability. Your LLC remains a disregarded entity — the 1120 is filed only as a structural requirement to attach Form 5472.
What EIN do I use on Form 1120?
Use the EIN assigned to your LLC. If your LLC does not have an EIN, you must apply for one using Form SS-4 before filing. Every LLC filing Form 5472 needs its own EIN.
IRS Form 1120 Instructions
Official IRS source on irs.gov
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