It sounds like you are incorporating an S-Corp. There aren't really any IRS rules like that for C-Corps, which is why Steve Jobs can get paid $1 pa. The rule i

It sounds like you are incorporating an S-Corp. There aren't really any IRS rules like that for C-Corps, which is why Steve Jobs can get paid $1 pa. The rule is essentially there to make sure that you pay FICA. The limit for paying FICA in 2008 is $10,200. So that should be a safe reasonable compensation. Anything you pay yourself on top of this should be done as an S-Corp distribution. That said you could probably get away with paying less. But really your CPA should be able to guide you on this. You may be able to get away with $50k pa.