A West Virginia Stock Option Plan is an employer-sponsored benefit that grants employees the opportunity to purchase company stock at a predetermined price within a specified time frame. The plan includes various types of stock options, namely Incentive Stock Options (SOS), Nonqualified Stock Options (Nests), and Exchange Options. 1. Incentive Stock Options (SOS): This type of stock option is designed to provide tax advantages to employees. SOS can only be granted to employees and must meet specific requirements set by the Internal Revenue Code. These options allow employees to purchase company stock at a predetermined price, known as the exercise price or strike price. However, SOS usually come with a vesting period, meaning employees must work for a certain duration before being eligible to exercise their options. 2. Nonqualified Stock Options (Nests): Nests are stock options that do not meet the requirements for favorable tax treatment under the Internal Revenue Code. They can be granted to both employees and non-employees, such as consultants or independent contractors. Nests provide more flexibility and versatility in terms of grant requirements and eligibility criteria. These options also have a strike price, and the recipient can exercise the options after a specified vesting period. 3. Exchange Options: The West Virginia Stock Option Plan may also include Exchange Options. These options offer employees the ability to exchange their current stock options for different ones. For instance, an employee may have SOS but wishes to switch to Nests due to the potential tax implications. Exchange Options allow for this flexibility, providing an opportunity to modify the terms of the stock options to better suit the employee's preferences or financial situation. By implementing a West Virginia Stock Option Plan that incorporates Incentive Stock Options, Nonqualified Stock Options, and Exchange Options, employers can offer their employees a chance to become shareholders and benefit from the company's success. This plan not only serves as an incentive for employees but also aligns their interests with that of the company, fostering loyalty and motivation.