Option grant forms for private companies are legal documents used to grant stock options to employees or other individuals. These forms outline the terms and conditions of the option grant, including the number of shares, exercise price, expiration date, vesting schedule, and other important details. Private companies have various option grant forms available, depending on their specific needs and circumstances. Some common types of option grant forms for private companies include: 1. Non-Qualified Stock Option (NO) Grant Form: This form is used to grant non-qualified stock options, which are typically offered to employees and do not qualify for special tax treatment. Nests allow employees to purchase company stock at a predetermined price, regardless of the stock's current market value. 2. Incentive Stock Option (ISO) Grant Form: This form is used to grant incentive stock options, which provide certain tax advantages to employees. SOS can only be granted to employees, have specific eligibility requirements, and must adhere to various tax laws and regulations. 3. Restricted Stock Unit (RSU) Grant Form: RSS are a form of equity compensation where employees are granted units of company stock that vest over time. Unlike stock options, RSS do not require the employee to purchase the shares but instead receive the shares once they vest. 4. Performance-based Stock Option Grant Form: This type of option grant form is used when the company wants to tie the exercise of the options to specific performance goals or milestones. It allows employees to purchase stock options only if certain predefined performance targets are met. 5. Phantom Stock Option Grant Form: Phantom stock options are a type of equity compensation that provides employees with a cash bonus tied to the company's stock performance. This form is used to grant such options, which do not involve actual shares of stock but entitle the recipient to a cash payout similar to stock appreciation. When choosing the appropriate option grant form for a private company, it is essential to consider factors such as the company's ownership structure, goals, tax implications, and specific requirements of the individuals receiving the options. Seeking legal and financial advice is crucial to ensure compliance with applicable laws and to design an option grant program that aligns with the company's objectives.