|
Background Note
| HBS Case Collection
|
2011
(Revised from original 2009 version)
A Note on the Legal and Tax Implications of Founders' Equity Splits
by
Noam T. Wasserman and Lauren Barley
|
Abstract
This note summarizes key legal and tax issues that founders should consider as they contemplate an equity split and ownership structure. Specific issues covered include why founders should not delay splitting the equity and whether they should involve an attorney or accountant when they do; the importance of considering intellectual property (IP) issues when splitting the equity and the need to do so consistent with Section 351 of the Internal Revenue Code; and the need to make timely and valid Section 83(b) elections if the founders adopt vesting as part of the equity split.
Keywords: Business Startups;
Entrepreneurship;
Equity;
Taxation;
Intellectual Property;
Law;
Ownership;
Partners and Partnerships;