Contributions to a retirement plan can only be made from compensation, which, in the case of a selfemployed individual, is earned income. Unfortunately for S-Corp owners, only W2 income can be recognized for qualified retirement plan purposes (not the pass-through income).Before doing so, complete federal Form 1120-S and supporting schedules. Retirement plans for S Corp owners, like SEP IRAs and Solo 401(k)s, help maximize savings. Learn how self-employed professionals can plan ahead. Once the corporation is established, you'll need to file IRS Form 2553 to elect S Corporation status. 2. An Individual Retirement Account, or IRA, often represents a really good option for an S corporation owner. S corporations file Minnesota Form M8 Corporation Return, with the state, along with copies of federal Form 1120S and supporting forms and schedules. As a small-business owner, figuring out retirement choices can be a little intimidating. A SEP IRA is easy to set up, has low to no cost and has minimal maintenance.