The Contra Costa California Stock Option Plan of Star States Corporation is a financial program offered by the company to its employees residing in Contra Costa County, California. This plan provides employees with the opportunity to purchase company stock at a specified price, known as the exercise price, within a predetermined period, usually referred to as the vesting period. Stock options are a popular form of compensation offered by many corporations, providing employees with a chance to own a part of the company they work for. The Contra Costa California Stock Option Plan can be divided into different types based on the specific terms and conditions set by Star States Corporation. These types may include: 1. Incentive Stock Options (SOS): These are stock options granted to employees with certain tax advantages. To qualify for SOS, employees must meet specific guidelines set by the Internal Revenue Service (IRS). SOS typically have longer vesting periods and may have potential tax benefits upon the sale of the stock. 2. Non-Qualified Stock Options (Nests): Unlike SOS, Nests do not comply with the IRS requirements for tax advantages. These options are more flexible in terms of granting and exercising, making them a popular choice for employees. Nests may have different vesting periods and can be offered to a broader range of employees, including contractors and part-time workers. 3. Restricted Stock Units (RSS): Although not technically stock options, RSS are often included in stock option plans. RSS represents a promise to deliver company stock at a predetermined future date upon meeting specific conditions, such as continued employment or achieving performance goals. RSS are commonly used as an additional form of compensation alongside stock options. 4. Performance Stock Units (Plus): Similar to RSS, Plus are granted based on predetermined performance targets. These targets are usually tied to the company's financial or operational goals. Meeting or exceeding these goals determines the number of Plus that can be converted into company stock. Plus are typically awarded to executives or key employees to align their interests with the company's overall performance. Overall, the Contra Costa California Stock Option Plan of Star States Corporation aims to incentivize and reward employees through stock ownership, potentially aligning their interests with the company's success. These stock options allow employees to benefit from the company's growth and can serve as a valuable supplement to their overall compensation package.