Equity Compensation
We help you turn stock compensation into a clear plan—with no tax surprises. Whether you have RSUs, ESPPs, stock options (ISOs/NSOs), or you’re heading toward an IPO or tender offer, we make the numbers simple and the next steps obvious. (U.S. tax only.)
Tax Preparation
What this means for you: an accurately filed tax return
How we do it: we reconcile your W-2/1099-B/3921/3922, fix RSU/ESPP cost basis, classify ISO/NSO activity correctly, and handle multi-state income when moves or remote work are involved.
What you get: e-filed returns, an Equity Summary explaining what changed and why, and estimated tax vouchers if needed—so you’re never caught off guard.
Tax Planning
What this means for you: confident timing on exercises and sales, fewer surprises, and more after-tax dollars.
How we do it: we model AMT thresholds, compare “sell vs. hold” scenarios, build a simple vesting & exercise calendar, and map cash-flow/withholding so you’re ready before each event.
What you get: a short Equity Action Plan with exactly what to do and when.
Advisory & Coordination with Your Financial Team
What this means for you: one point of contact who makes sure taxes, investing, and legal all move in sync—especially around IPOs, tenders, and blackout windows.
How we do it: year-round access, quarterly projections, and direct collaboration with your CFP/RIA and attorney on diversification, gifting/charitable strategies, and liquidity planning.
What you get: a living Annual Equity Plan, updated quarterly, plus priority scheduling when windows open.
FAQs
Do I really need a CPA who specializes in equity compensation?
Yes - equity income is often misreported. Mistakes with RSU/ESPP basis or ISO AMT can lead to overpaying tax or IRS & state notices. A specialist makes sure your return is accurate and your strategy proactive.
What kinds of equity compensation do you work with?
We handle RSUs, ESPPs, ISOs, NSOs, and pre-IPO equity. We also advise on IPOs, tender offers, and multi-state sourcing when clients move during service periods.
Can you coordinate with my financial advisor?
Yes. We regularly work with CFPs and RIAs to align your investment strategy with the tax side. We'll also loop in your attorney if you're doing estate or charitable gifting with stock.
Can you work with my bookkeeper or payroll provider?
Absolutely. We often collaborate directly with bookkeepers, payroll processors, and financial advisors to ensure that your tax filings, accounting, and cash flow all stay in sync throughout the year.
What do I need to provide to get started?
We will provide an onboarding checklist, but typically: your W-2, 1099-B, Forms 3921/3922 (if applicable), employer stock-plan statements or exports, equity grant agreements, and residency history if you worked in multiple states.
I exercised ISOs - will I owe AMT?
It depends on the size of the "bargain element". We'll run an AMT projection and, if you are subject to AMT, we will help plan around it (including how to recover AMT credits in future years).
Should I sell my RSUs right away?
There's no one-size answer. Many clients sell to cover taxes and diversify. We'll model the after-tax outcomes of selling vs. holding so you can decide with clarity.
