Stock plan awards

Receiving a stock plan award from your company is something to be proud of. It’s recognition of the value seen in you now and in the future. Get to know how your award works and the potential financial benefits it can bring.

Get to know your stock plan award

There are several types of stock awards, and they all work a bit differently. Find your award type below and learn about the key steps that occur throughout its lifecycle. If you’re not sure which type of award you received, log in to NetBenefitsLog In Required and look for your stock plan on the home page.


Restricted stock unit (RSU)

An award of stock units that is restricted until vesting requirements are met. Your company then distributes the value as either shares or cash.


Overview (PDF) | Watch video (5:44)


Performance award

An award of stock or units that is restricted until vesting requirements are met and may be adjusted based on company-established performance goals.


Overview (PDF)


Stock options

An award that gives you the ability to purchase shares of company stock at a specified price for a fixed period of time.


Overview (PDF) | Watch video (5:11)
How to exercise your award (PDF)


Restricted stock award (RSA)

An award of stock that is restricted until vesting requirements are met. Your company then distributes shares.


Overview (PDF) | Watch video (4:48)


Stock appreciation rights

An award that gives you the ability to receive shares or cash equal in value to the appreciation of company stock over a set period of time.


Overview (PDF)

How to exercise your award (PDF)

Reinvestment of company stock dividends

A dividend is a payment made by a company to share its profits with its shareholders. If your company stock pays a dividend, it goes into your Stock Plan Account as cash by default. But you could use that money to purchase more shares of company stock. Call Fidelity Stock Plan Services (Fidelity) if you would like to reinvest your dividends.


How to contact Fidelity

Understanding stock compensation taxes

The Global Tax Guide provides information about the tax laws in various countries—including when taxation occurs, your tax-filing responsibilities, and the website of the national tax agency for more help.


Access the Global Tax Guide*

Additional resources

Transfer of assets (PDF)

Complete this form to transfer your company shares from Fidelity to another broker or intermediary account.

Your account on the go

Get the NetBenefits mobile app to sell stock and transfer cash from wherever you are.

App Store
Google Play

Withdrawal preferences (PDF)

Set up your withdrawal preferences now to help avoid delays getting cash from your account.