Technical deep-dives on equity compensation taxation
Our comprehensive guides cover every aspect of stock options taxation, including RSU (Restricted Stock Units), ISO (Incentive Stock Options), NSO (Non-Qualified Stock Options), ESPP (Employee Stock Purchase Plans), 83(b) elections, and international tax planning strategies for tech professionals with equity compensation.
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Equity compensation is a significant part of total compensation for tech professionals, but the tax implications can be complex. Our guides cover the essential topics including:
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Understand sell-to-cover on RSU vesting: how many shares are sold at FMV, what rates apply, gaps versus your marginal bracket, and how to plan cash and W-4 adjustments.
Practical guide for tech employees who switch companies mid-year: how RSU and option income stacks on two W-2s, why withholding often falls short, safe harbor for penalties, and what to do before your last day.
A practical playbook for employees who receive RSUs for the first time: how vesting is taxed, why 22% withholding often leaves a balance due, how to read your pay stub and W-2, and how to plan estimated tax and W-4 changes before year-end.
RSU vesting often uses flat supplemental withholding; if that trails your marginal rate, adjust Form W-4 or pay estimated taxes to avoid April surprises.
Decode Form W-2 Box 14 labels for RSUs, options, and ESPP: how they relate to Boxes 1 and 12, broker 1099-B basis, and common employer-specific codes.
RSUs are not taxed twice on the same dollars when you track basis correctly. Learn vest vs sale taxation, W-2 income, stepped-up basis, sell-to-cover, and 1099-B mistakes that feel like double tax.
For tech employees with RSUs, this guide translates IRS Publication 525 into actionable advice on how vesting is taxed as wages and reported on a W-2.