Company stock can appear in several places at once. A career move may change what vests, what remains available, and what needs attention. Start with the plan documents, not a rough account total.
Build the inventory
Gather each part
- Vested and unvested awards
- Grant agreements and plan documents
- Vesting schedules
- Purchase plan information
- Option details, if applicable
- Recent tax records and transaction history
Keep each grant separate. Similar awards can have different dates or terms.
Mark the dates that change
Write down the employment end date, future vesting dates, and any plan window that may begin or end after departure. Confirm the dates directly from the documents or plan administrator.
Compare the whole picture
Place company stock beside cash needs, other investments, taxes, and the next job offer. A stock decision may look different when the household already depends on the same company for income or when a large expense is near.
Before acting, confirm plan rules and tax treatment with the right professionals. The goal is to understand the tradeoffs before a deadline makes the choice for you.