Stock awards at a glance
There are many 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 Fidelity NetBenefits® 
and look for your stock plan on the home page.
Restricted stock units
An award of stock units that is restricted until vesting requirements are met. Your company then distributes the value as either shares or cash.
Read PDF | Watch shares video (5:11) |
Watch cash video (2:28)
Performance awards
An award of stock or units that is restricted until vesting requirements are met and may be adjusted based on company-established performance goals.
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.
Restricted stock awards
An award of stock that is restricted until vesting requirements are met. Your company then distributes shares.
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.
What happens once your award vests?
First, you celebrate! Then, you'll want to know what you got and how to access it. These videos show how your award's value "moves" into your Fidelity Account®, the impact of taxes on your distribution, and how to access the shares or cash in your account.
See what your stock is worth
Your stock benefits can really add up. To see how much you could expect and when it’s coming, view your total award value and distribution details. Then let the goal planning begin.
Related resources and actions
Your account on the go†
Get the Fidelity Mobile® app to sell stock and transfer cash from wherever you are.
ACT
Easy access to cash†
Tap directly into the cash in your Fidelity Account® through online bill paying, ATM card, or check.
ACT
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Stock plan glossary
What’s that word? Find definitions for commonly used terms.
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