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Should founder shares have vesting?

Incorporation & entity structure

Yes, in almost every case. Four years with a one-year cliff is the convention, and it protects the remaining team if someone leaves early.

Investors usually require it anyway, and imposing vesting later is a negotiation you would rather not have. It also makes the 83(b) election relevant from day one.

We handle this for founders running US companies.

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Check your EIN confirmation letter (CP 575) first. If that is gone, look at a previously filed tax return, a business bank account application, or any 1099 you have issued. Your bank or your payroll provider will also have it on file.

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