Google RSU Guide: GSU Vesting Schedule, Taxes, and Strategies
How Google RSUs (GSUs) work — the 1-year cliff, monthly vesting, refresh grants, sell-to-cover defaults, and tax strategies for managing bracket creep.
Mike Navarro··13 min read
Articles on RSUs, ISOs, NSOs, 83(b) elections, and restricted stock — how each equity type is taxed and strategies to maximize your compensation value.
18 articles
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RSUs are a promise to deliver shares at vest. Restricted stock is actual shares granted immediately (subject to forfeiture). The key difference: restricted stock is eligible for the 83(b) election, which can save tens of thousands in taxes. RSUs are not.
A comprehensive overview of all equity compensation types --- stock options (ISOs and NSOs), RSUs, restricted stock, phantom equity, SARs, and profits interests. Covers how each is taxed, when companies use them, and which you are most likely to receive at each company stage.
A complete comparison of RSUs and Employee Stock Purchase Plans (ESPPs) covering how each works, tax treatment for qualifying vs disqualifying dispositions, the 15% ESPP discount, lookback provisions, and strategies for maximizing both.
A comprehensive comparison of RSUs and stock options covering how each works, risk profiles in up/flat/down markets, tax timing, exercise costs, and which is more common at different company stages.
Cliff vesting is the initial waiting period before any equity vests. Learn about the standard 1-year cliff, what happens if you leave early, and how different companies structure their cliffs.
Optimize ISO exercise timing across 3-5 years