The Mecklenburg North Carolina Stock Option Plan is a comprehensive program that offers various types of stock options and stock appreciation rights to employees and key personnel within a company. This plan aims to incentivize and reward individuals for their contributions to the organization's success. The plan offers three different types of stock options: Incentive Stock Options (SOS), Nonqualified Stock Options (SOS), and Stock Appreciation Rights (SARS). Each type has its own unique features and eligibility requirements. 1. Incentive Stock Options (SOS): These options are typically reserved for employees and provide potential tax advantages. Employees who receive SOS have the right to purchase company stock at a predetermined price (the exercise price) within a specified timeframe. SOS are subject to certain limitations set by the federal tax code, including a maximum annual grant limit and requirements regarding the holding period. 2. Nonqualified Stock Options (SOS): Unlike SOS, SOS are not subject to the same tax advantages and can be granted to both employees and non-employees, such as consultants or directors. SOS allow the holder to purchase company stock at a predetermined price within a specified timeframe, similar to SOS. However, SOS do not have the same tax consequences as SOS and are generally more flexible in terms of grant amount and eligibility. 3. Stock Appreciation Rights (SARS): SARS provide the holder with a cash payment equal to the increase in the company's stock price over a specified period. Unlike stock options, SARS do not require the holder to purchase company stock. SARS can be granted to employees and non-employees and are often used as an alternative to stock options, offering participants a cash payout instead of actual stock ownership. The Mecklenburg North Carolina Stock Option Plan provides a comprehensive framework for granting, exercising, and managing these various types of stock options and stock appreciation rights. It is designed to align the interests of employees and key personnel with the long-term success and growth of the organization, while also providing valuable incentives and rewards.