The South Dakota Stock Option Plan is a comprehensive program that allows businesses to grant various types of stock options and stock appreciation rights to their employees. This plan aims to incentivize employees and offer them opportunities to participate in the company's growth and success. The plan encompasses three main types of stock options: Incentive Stock Options (SOS), Nonqualified Stock Options (SOS), and Stock Appreciation Rights (SARS). SOS are a type of stock option that provides certain tax advantages to employees. These options are typically granted to employees as a way to encourage long-term commitment and loyalty. SOS can only be granted to employees, and the strike price (the price at which the stock can be purchased) must be equal to or higher than the fair market value of the stock on the grant date. When the employee exercises their SOS, any subsequent appreciation in the stock's value is subject to capital gains tax. SOS, on the other hand, are stock options that do not qualify for the same tax benefits as SOS. Unlike SOS, SOS can be granted to both employees and non-employees, such as contractors and consultants. SOS offer more flexibility in terms of granting options and setting the strike price, as they do not have to meet the same requirements as SOS. When SOS are exercised, the employee is subject to ordinary income tax on the difference between the fair market value of the stock on the exercise date and the strike price. Lastly, SARS are a different type of equity incentive that provides employees with the opportunity to receive the appreciation in the company's stock value without actually granting them any shares. When SARS are exercised, employees are typically paid in cash or stock equal to the difference between the fair market value of the stock on the exercise date and the fair market value on the grant date. Similar to SOS, SARS can be granted to both employees and non-employees. Overall, the South Dakota Stock Option Plan offers flexibility and a range of options for businesses to grant incentives to their employees. It encourages employee retention and performance by providing them with opportunities to benefit from the company's success.