If an S corporation must pay a penalty tax, what section governs this tax calculation?

The correct understanding is that the penalty tax for S corporations is governed by Section 1375 of the Internal Revenue Code. This section outlines specific scenarios where an S corporation can be subjected to penalties, particularly concerning the adjustment of the corporation's income. It generally addresses circumstances such as the improper distribution of income or failure to meet certain operational requirements necessary to maintain S corporation status.

Section 1375 specifically discusses how the penalty tax is calculated based on the excess net passive income or other related criteria. It is focused on ensuring compliance with the regulations surrounding S corporations and the treatment of passive income in relation to shareholder distributions. Understanding this section is crucial for anyone managing the tax obligations of an S corporation to navigate potential penalties effectively.