North Dakota Stock Option Plan for Federal Savings Associations is a program designed to provide federally chartered savings associations in North Dakota with an opportunity to offer stock options to their employees. These stock options allow employees to purchase company stocks at a predetermined price within a specified time frame. The North Dakota Stock Option Plan aims to incentivize and motivate employees by providing them with a financial stake in the performance and success of the federal savings association they work for. By offering stock options, savings associations can attract and retain talented individuals, driving employee engagement and loyalty. Under this plan, there can be different types of stock options available to employees: 1. Non-Qualified Stock Options (NO): These options allow employees to purchase company stocks at a predetermined price, known as the exercise price. Nests are subject to taxation upon exercise, with the employee being liable for ordinary income tax on the difference between the exercise price and the fair market value of the stock at the time of exercise. 2. Incentive Stock Options (ISO): These options provide certain tax advantages to employees. SOS are granted with a predetermined exercise price and are subject to specific holding period requirements. If these requirements are met, the employee may qualify for favorable long-term capital gains tax rates upon the sale of the stock. 3. Restricted Stock Units (RSS): RSS are not technically options, but rather a promise to deliver company stock at a future date or upon the occurrence of certain conditions. Employees receive a specified number of RSS that convert into actual shares after a vesting period, usually based on time or performance goals. RSS also offer employees the opportunity to benefit from the company's growth. North Dakota Stock Option Plan For Federal Savings Association provides a framework and guidelines for savings associations to structure and administer their stock option programs. These plans must comply with federal securities laws and regulations and are subject to specific reporting and disclosure requirements. Implementing a well-designed stock option plan can be a valuable tool for federal savings associations in North Dakota to attract, retain, and motivate talent, aligning employees' interests with the success of the institution. It is important for savings associations to consult legal and financial professionals when establishing and administering these plans to ensure compliance with all applicable laws and regulations.