Many companies issue their employees equity, or stock, as part of an overall compensation package. Two of the most popular forms of equity granted to employees are stock options (the right to purchase the stock at a set price) and restricted stock units, or RSUs (stock that is owned by the employee outright after working with the company for a set amount of time). While there are many considerations when choosing between options and RSUs, one of the most important things to keep in mind is how, and when, each is taxed.

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Unlike most states, New York offers free registered agent services provided by the Secretary of State. Private RAs are left to convince businesses that their services are superior to the Secretary of State’s.

The primary difference between the Secretary of State and a good private RA is speed. The Secretary of State’s office notifies you of service of process by mail. A private RA may offer more immediate notification methods, such as by phone or email. Other services may include electronic record keeping and customer support.

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Banks are not always easy to deal with, but at least they’re predictable. I’ve set up small business bank accounts in +5 countries and although requirements differ, there are certain fundamental rules of thumb I try to follow each time.

1. Don’t Be a Stranger

If you already have a personal account with the bank, the set-up process will be much smoother and quicker. Their system knows you and that goes a long way for the banks. In addition, if it is your existing bank, you will be familiar with how they work (or do not work) and know how to navigate their internal bureaucracy and online banking systems. Banks have lots of packages and offerings for small businesses, but at the end of the day they are very similar. If any of the rules of thumb below hugely favor another bank, then switch.

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