Just joined my first startup. It is seed funded and I think it has the potential to be massive. I&#x27;m employee number 4 and was given a substantial number of shares.<p>According to the fair market value, if I exercised my shares I&#x27;d have to pay the company $15,000. I am not willing to risk the cash today on something so speculative. From my understanding, if I were to exercise later I would have to pay the AMT at time of exercise. If I exercise now or before the next 409A, I can file a form 83(b) election and then just pay long term capital gains when I ultimately sell those shares.<p>The founders seem very reasonable and I&#x27;m trying to figure out what my options are. Any advice?
Ask HN: Number 4 employee, should I exercise my options? Form 83(b)?