Year-End Stock Option and RSU Planning for Tech Professionals

Why Year-End Is the Best Time to Review Your Equity Compensation

As the year winds down, many professionals start focusing on holidays and time off. But if you receive stock options or RSUs, now is one of the most important times to check in on your equity plan.

The decisions you make before December 31 can have a real impact on your taxes, cash flow, and long-term goals. A short year-end review helps you avoid surprises, stay organized, and start the new year confident in your financial direction.

What to Look at Before December 31

1. Review your vesting and expiration dates.
Make sure you know which options are set to expire soon and when your next RSU tranches will vest. A missed deadline can mean leaving money on the table.

2. Check your tax exposure.
RSU income and option exercises can bump you into a higher tax bracket. Running a quick projection or checking with your CPA can help you understand your true income picture before the year ends.

3. Watch your concentration risk.
If a large portion of your net worth sits in your company’s stock, consider whether you’re comfortable with that level of exposure. Balancing your portfolio can reduce unnecessary risk while keeping your goals on track.

4. Review your cash flow and savings.
If you plan to exercise stock options, confirm you have enough liquidity to handle the purchase and potential tax impact. Planning this ahead of time prevents surprises during tax season.

It’s About More Than Taxes

Equity compensation touches every part of your financial life. It influences how much you save, how you invest, and when you can comfortably step away from work.
A thoughtful plan aligns your stock options and RSUs with your retirement goals, lifestyle needs, and overall investment strategy.

At Golden Acre Wealth Management, I help tech professionals build clear, tax-aware equity plans that connect every piece of their financial picture. The focus is on simplicity, clarity, and long-term confidence, not just reacting to tax forms in April.

Take Action Before the Year Ends

Small steps now can save you time, money, and stress later.
Before December 31:

• Confirm key equity dates and deadlines

• Estimate your total income for 2025

• Check whether you need to adjust withholdings or estimated taxes

• Revisit your portfolio’s risk balance

If you want help reviewing your equity compensation and tax strategy before the year closes, schedule a quick, no-obligation conversation here.