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 Restricted Stock Units — taxation at vesting, withholding shortfalls, sell-to-cover strategies, and guides to manage your RSU tax bill.
20 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 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.
Compare state income tax rates, brackets, and supplemental withholding rates for equity compensation. Detailed coverage of CA, NY, TX, and WA with a summary of all state tax categories for tech employees.
Optimize ISO exercise timing across 3-5 years