Welcome to The Startup Law Blog This site is dedicated to helping founders and investors navigate the complex intersection of corporate, securities, and tax law. I’m Joe Wallin, a Seattle-based attorney who advises startups and their investors from formation through financing and successful exit. On this blog you’ll find practical guidance on structuring your company and equity to save on taxes, avoid costly pitfalls, and close deals with confidence. What you’ll find here Below are some of the core topics covered on the blog. Each section links to a page or series of articles that dives deeper into that subject: QSBS & Sections 1202/1045
- Learn how to qualify for the federal Qualified Small Business Stock (QSBS) exclusion and how to roll gains into new QSBS under Section 1045. We break down the rules, key planning strategies, and recent state-level developments. Equity compensation (The Complete Guide to Equity Compensation for Startups: https://www.thestartuplawblog.com/equity-compensation-2/)
- From stock options and restricted stock to phantom equity and profits interests, understand how to design and document incentive programs that motivate your team while minimizing taxes for everyone. Startup financing
- Explore financing structures (SAFEs, convertible notes, preferred stock) and learn how term sheets work, what the key terms mean, and how to negotiate for a fair deal.