409A Valuation: The Complete Guide for Startup Founders (2026)
If you're issuing stock options, you need a 409A valuation. Here's what every startup founder needs to know about the process, the safe harbor rules, and the costly mistakes to avoid.
Startup Law
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SAFE Agreements: What Every Startup Founder Needs to Know
SAFEs are the dominant instrument in pre-seed and seed financing, but "simple" doesn't mean uncomplicated. Learn how SAFEs actually work, what can go wrong, and what you need to know before you sign one.
Structure Determines Your Tax Outcome: Washington State Tax Planning for Founders, Investors, and High Earners
Your tax outcome in Washington depends on how you structure your equity, entity, and exit. This post walks through the planning levers founders, investors, and high earners can pull before 2028.
Washington Just Banned Noncompetes. Here's What That Means for Your Business.
Governor Ferguson signed ESHB 1155 on March 23, 2026, banning virtually all noncompetes in Washington effective June 30, 2027—retroactively. The prior income threshold and garden leave framework are gone. Here’s what changed and what you must do.
January Filing Deadlines Startups Commonly Miss
January is prime time for compliance slip-ups that quietly turn into bigger problems later—loss of good standing, IRS penalties, or unpleasant surprises during fundraising.
Top Startup Law Updates for 2025: QSBS and 83(b) Changes
2025 has already brought several noteworthy changes to U.S. tax and corporate law that will affect tech founders, early‑stage employees and investors.
Golden Parachute Taxes: A Hidden Trap for Founders
By Joe Wallin What this post covers: Section 280G ("golden parachute") taxes are triggered when compensation connected to a change of control (cash, accelerated vesting, retention bonuses) exceeds...
It’s Time to Reverse the 83(b) Election Presumption
The 83(b) election is one of the most consequential decisions most startup founders ever face—yet it’s designed to punish oversight. It’s time to modernize the rule: make the election automatic unless you opt out.
Only C-Corps Can Issue QSBS — and That’s a $15 Million Reason to Care
Choosing the wrong entity structure can cost startup founders millions. Only C-corporations can issue Qualified Small Business Stock (QSBS) under Section 1202. Here’s why that matters — and how to preserve your shot at the $15 million tax exclusion.
The Big Beautiful Bill: A New Era for QSBS and Startup Investment
On July 4, 2025, President Donald Trump signed into law the One Big Beautiful Bill Act (often called the "Big Beautiful Bill").