Tax planning for equity compensation — estimated payments, exercise timing, multi-year strategies, and practical guides to minimize your total tax liability.
28 articles
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.
How RSUs and Incentive Stock Options differ in tax treatment, risk profile, exercise requirements, and which is better depending on your company stage and financial situation.
A detailed comparison of Incentive Stock Options (ISOs) and Non-Qualified Stock Options (NSOs) covering tax treatment at exercise and sale, AMT implications, the $100K annual limit, and holding period requirements.
A complete step-by-step walkthrough of the AMT calculation: AMTI, exemption, rates (26%/28%), and comparison to regular tax. Includes a $200K salary + $300K ISO spread worked example.
A disqualifying disposition is selling ISO shares before meeting the holding period. Learn the two requirements, tax consequences, and when selling early is actually the better strategy.
Form 6251 is how you calculate Alternative Minimum Tax. Walk through the key lines, understand AMT adjustments and preferences, and see a worked example with ISO exercise.
The AMT is a parallel tax system that ensures high earners pay a minimum level of tax. Learn how it works, current exemption amounts, and why ISO exercises are the #1 trigger for tech employees.
Free equity compensation calculators for ISOs, RSUs, 83(b) elections, and IPO lock-up planning. Find your AMT-free limit, RSU withholding shortfall, and optimal exercise strategy.
During a 180-day IPO lock-up, you can't sell shares but may still owe taxes. Learn about the liquidity gap, 5 financing options, and how to plan ahead.
RSUs are taxed twice: as ordinary income when they vest, and as capital gains when you sell. Learn exactly how each event is taxed and how to minimize your bill.
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