Home Q&A Forum Can a company revoke unvested stock options upon termination of employment?

Stock Options

Stock Option Agreement

Texas

Asked on Aug 10, 2025

Can a company revoke unvested stock options upon termination of employment?

I recently left my previous job and had unvested stock options as part of my compensation package. However, upon termination, the company informed me that they would be revoking all unvested stock options. I was under the impression that unvested options would still be available to me even after leaving the company, and I am now seeking legal advice to understand if the company's action is legally permissible or if I have any recourse to retain those unvested stock options.

Answers from 1 Lawyer

Answer

Stock Options

Texas

Answered 232 days ago

Darryl S.

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Business Lawyer
Licensed in Texas
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November 9, 2023

Generally when you leave a job you forfeit all rights to unvested stock options since those "vest" or "become yours" based on time worked at the company. If you have any stock options that have vested based on your work at the Company, those may or may not be forfeited depending upon what your Stock Option Agreement says. Please review that carefully or hire a lawyer to assist you to advise on next steps.

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