RSA vs RSU: Own It Now, or Own It Later?

One word decides how your equity is taxed. RSAs give you shares on day one. RSUs make you wait. That single difference in timing changes everything your tax bill, your risk if you leave, even whether an 83(b) election is on the table. This guide breaks down both, with real numbers.

What you get:

• A side-by-side comparison of RSAs and RSUs across ownership, vesting, and tax treatment

• The Section 83(b) election explained, when it helps, and the overlooked risk if you forfeit after filing

• Single-trigger vs. double-trigger vesting, and why most private companies use double-trigger

• Three worked examples showing the exact tax difference between filing an 83(b) and not