RSU vs. Stock Options Calculator
Comprehensive equity compensation analysis tool
Calculator Inputs
Grant Terms
For long-term capital gains qualification
Tax & Locale Settings
Enter as decimal (e.g., 0.35 for 35%)
Enter as decimal (e.g., 0.15 for 15%)
Typically 26-28% for AMT
Phase 1: Upfront Cost & Gross Value
ℹ️
Understanding Phase 1: This phase compares the gross value and upfront costs between RSUs and stock options at the time of vesting/exercise.
RSU Gross Value at Vesting
$0.00
0 units × $0.00/share
NSO Intrinsic Value at Exercise
$0.00
0 options × $0.00/share spread
RSU Upfront Cost
$0.00
No cash required at vesting
NSO/ISO Upfront Cost
$0.00
Exercise requires cash
⚠️
Options are underwater: The current FMV is at or below the strike price. Exercise would not be profitable at this valuation.
Phase 2: Tax Liability & Net Cash
ℹ️
Tax Treatment: RSUs are taxed as ordinary income at vesting. NSOs are taxed on the bargain element at exercise. ISOs may trigger AMT but can receive favorable capital gains treatment if held properly.
RSU Tax Impact
$0.00
$0.00
NSO Tax Impact
$0.00
$0.00
$0.00
ISO Tax Impact (AMT Aware)
$0.00
$0.00
$0.00
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | RSU | NSO | ISO |
|---|---|---|---|
| Gross Value | $0.00 | $0.00 | $0.00 |
| Upfront Cost | $0.00 | $0.00 | $0.00 |
| Tax Liability | $0.00 | $0.00 | $0.00 |
| Net Value | $0.00 | $0.00 | $0.00 |
Scenario Modeling & Visualization
Enter different FMV values to compare outcomes
Export & Share
Save your analysis or share it with advisors and colleagues.
💡
Export Features:
- CSV Export: Download a detailed spreadsheet with all calculations
- Shareable Link: Generate a URL with your current inputs to share or save
Results Summary
RSU Net Value
$0.00
NSO Net Value
$0.00
ISO Net Value
$0.00