Grantwise guides
Read the equity offer before it reads you.
Short, practical explainers for the exact questions people ask when a startup offer includes options.
2026-06-04
How startup equity actually works: dilution, strike price, and what your grant is really worth
A practical guide to reading a startup option grant before you sign an offer.
Read guide2026-06-04
ISO vs NSO options: tax implications explained
The key practical differences between incentive stock options and non-qualified stock options.
Read guide2026-06-04
Why your 0.5% equity stake might be worth nothing at exit
How liquidation preferences and common-share economics can erase employee option value.
Read guide2026-06-04
Questions to ask before accepting a startup equity offer
The practical cap table, tax, and exercise-window questions to ask before you sign.
Read guide2026-06-04
Fully diluted shares explained for startup employees
Why fully diluted share count is the missing context behind every option grant.
Read guide2026-06-04
409A valuation and strike price: what startup employees should know
How a 409A valuation relates to strike price, exercise cost, and tax risk.
Read guide2026-06-04
What happens to your stock options when a startup is acquired?
A clear explanation of option treatment, strike cost, common proceeds, and acquisition downside.
Read guide2026-06-04
Should I exercise my startup options after leaving?
How to think about exercise windows, cash at risk, AMT exposure, and private-company uncertainty.
Read guide