Startup Law
Startup law guidance on formation, fundraising, equity compensation, and exits.
Treasury Signals Crackdown on QSBS Trust Stacking: What Founders Should Do Now
Treasury Assistant Secretary for Tax Policy Kenneth Kies signaled this week that Treasury is working on guidance to address QSBS trust stacking. Here's what founders should do now.
When to Exercise Stock Options at a Startup: A Decision Framework
Exercise too early and you risk cash on a company that might fail. Wait too long and you face a crushing tax bill. Here's a framework for making the decision — including why Washington residents face a closing window before 2028.
SAFE vs Convertible Note: What They Are and Which to Use
Convertible notes vs. SAFEs: how each works, key differences in terms and mechanics, and which instrument makes more sense for your early-stage startup funding.
How to Negotiate Startup Equity: A Practical Guide for Employees
How to negotiate startup equity as an employee: understanding your offer, asking the right questions, evaluating strike price and vesting, and avoiding common mistakes.
Double-Trigger Acceleration: What Every Startup Founder and Employee Needs to Know
Double-trigger acceleration explained: what it is, how it works, when it applies, and why founders and key employees should insist on it in their equity agreements.
LLC vs. C-Corp for Startups: How to Choose the Right Entity
LLC vs. C-Corp for startups: key differences in taxes, QSBS eligibility, investor expectations, and how to choose the right entity for your company.
Startup Law Glossary: 75+ Terms Every Founder Should Know
A living reference of 75+ startup law terms every founder should know — from 83(b) elections to QSBS, Reg D to vesting schedules, explained in plain English.
Accredited Investor Definition (2026): Income, Net Worth, & Verification for Startups
Accredited investor requirements for startups: income test $200k/$300k, net worth $1M (excluding your home), and SEC-approved credentials. Includes verification steps under Reg D (506(b)/(c)).