In this podcast episode, I share three things you need to do when anticipating a windfall from equity compensation.

1) What type of equity do you own? Restricted Stock Units, Incentive Stock Options, Non-Qualified Stock Options, or a combination?

2) What is the vesting schedule of your equity comp? How much is currently vested vs. unvested? What are the exercise prices and expiration dates on any options? What is the blackout period for trading, and can you exercise unvested options to try to optimize for long-term capital gain treatment?

3) What's your long-term vision for creating your ideal life? How do you want to use the windfall to maximize happiness and fulfillment? Is financial independence important to you?