The Complete Guide to QSBS & Section 1202
Everything founders, investors and advisors need to know about Qualified Small Business Stock — from qualification to exit planning. Updated for the 2025 OBBBA changes.
Read the Guide →Startup Law for Founders, Investors & Advisors
In-depth guides on QSBS, equity compensation, securities law, and Washington state taxes — by Joe Wallin, startup attorney with 25+ years of experience.
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Washington State Taxes for Startups
A comprehensive guide to how Washington state taxes affect startups, founders and investors — including the capital gains tax, proposed legislation and QSBS conformity.
Read the Guide →Latest posts
What the Author of ESSB 6346 Said He Was Actually Trying to Do
Joe Wallin breaks down what the author of ESSB 6346 said he intended Washington’s 9.9% income tax to do — and what that means for founders and high earners.
The ESSB 6346 Referendum Is Dead. Stop Waiting and Start Planning.
The ESSB 6346 referendum failed to qualify for the ballot. Here's what that means for Washington founders, investors, and high earners — and why you need to start planning now.
How to Choose a 409A Valuation Provider: What Founders Need to Know
How to choose a 409A valuation provider for your startup: what to look for, what to avoid, and why getting it wrong can create costly tax problems for employees.
Carta, Pulley, and AngelList: What Cap Table Software Can — and Cannot — Do for Your Startup
Comparing Carta, Pulley, and AngelList for cap table management: features, pricing, and what startup founders need to know before choosing a platform.
Cap Table Administration for Startups
Cap table administration for startups: how to maintain accurate ownership records, avoid common mistakes, and know when to bring in professional help.
What the Full Tax Stack Looks Like for a Seattle High Earner in 2028
If you earn over $1 million in Seattle, you're looking at a state and local tax rate that will soon exceed 18%. Here's how you get there.
Can You Prove Your QSBS Will Hold Up?
QSBS is a fact-intensive benefit. The IRS doesn't take your word for it. Here's what your documentation needs to cover.
Washington Democrats Have a Wealth Tax on the Table. Nobody's Taking It Seriously. That's a Mistake.
Washington Democrats have proposed a wealth tax. Most observers are dismissing it — but Joe Wallin argues that's a mistake founders and high-net-worth Washingtonians shouldn't make.
No, Washington Didn't Just Pass a Wealth Tax. Here's What It Did Pass.
Washington passed ESSB 6346, a 9.9% income tax on earnings above $1M — not a wealth tax. Here's what it actually does and who it affects.
Big Private Company Gain in Washington? Your 2028 Planning Window Is Closing
If you hold pre-IPO stock or a large illiquid position, Washington's 9.9% income tax starts in 2028. Here's why your planning window is closing and what to do.