A financial plan that speaks equity comp from your first vest to IPO day.
Whether your equity is RSUs at a public company or ISOs at a pre-IPO startup, the decisions you make could shape your net worth for decades. We're fee-only financial advisors with no commissions and no product pushes, working with tech professionals and founders navigating these choices every day.
What makes equity compensation complex
Equity compensation is a big wealth lever and a big tax risk
RSUs, ISOs, NSOs, and ESPPs each have different tax treatment. Whether you're at a public company watching RSUs vest quarterly or at a pre-IPO startup deciding when to exercise, a vesting event can create a surprise tax bill — or a missed optimization.
Concentrated stock is often the biggest risk in your portfolio
It's common for tech employees to end up with most of their net worth in a single company's stock. Knowing when and how to diversify, without triggering a large taxable event or leaving upside on the table, often requires a multi-year plan, not a gut call.
Total comp is more than your salary
Base pay is one part of the puzzle. Bonuses, equity refreshes, 401(k) matches, mega backdoor Roths, deferred comp, and (for founders and early employees) potential QSBS exclusion should work together in a single plan.
A liquidity event changes everything
An IPO, tender offer, or acquisition is often a once-in-a-career financial event. The decisions you make in the weeks before and after impact how much you keep. We'll help you prepare so you have a plan in place when the moment arrives.
How NerdWallet Wealth Partners helps
One advisor who understands your full comp: equity, cash, tax, and what comes next.
Our team includes CFPs, CPAs, and CFA® charterholders who regularly advise tech employees, founders, and early-stage hires. You get one dedicated advisor who will help coordinate the whole picture.
Meet Our Partners