Welcome to the Stock Plan Resource Center

Frequently asked questions

See all FAQs

• What type of stock plan do I have and how does it work?

  A stock plan is a benefit that companies provide to grant their employees the ability to receive or purchase shares of company stock as part of employee compensation. These plans can come in all shapes and sizes, so to learn more about what you have, and how it works, choose your plan type below.

  Don’t see your plan type or not sure which one you have? You can learn about your company’s specific plan(s) by reviewing your plan documents or looking for the name of your stock plan on the home page of Fidelity NetBenefits^®Log In Required.

  • Restricted stock units (PDF)
  • Restricted stock awards (PDF)
  • Employee stock purchase plan (PDF)
  • Stock option plans (PDF)
  • Stock appreciation rights (PDF)
  • Performance awards (PDF)

  
  
• How do I open my account?

  Opening your Fidelity Account^® is a simple but important step in setting up the future home of your shares. This account is where you can manage your awards and where your shares and cash will be deposited.

  To open your account, just click Open Account on your Fidelity NetBenefits^®Log In Required home page and follow the instructions.

  You can also review the Opening your Fidelity Account^® (PDF) quick-start guide if you have any questions along the way.

• How do I get my cash?

  If you sold shares, exercised an award, or received a payout, there are several easy ways to access your cash directly from your Fidelity Account^®. You can link a bank account, set up checkwriting, or use a debit card.

  Setting up these features ahead of time will help ensure that you don’t have to wait for your cash. Visit the Features by Account page to get started.

• How is my stock plan affected by taxes?

  Shares of stock received or purchased through a stock plan are considered income and generally subject to ordinary income taxes. Additionally, when shares are sold, you'll need to report the capital gain or loss.

  To learn more about taxes, when they're paid, and how to file your tax return, visit the Taxes and Tax-Filing Center.

• How do I accept my award?

  Some companies require awards to be accepted. To accept an award, simply click Begin Acceptance on your Stock Plan Summary pageLog In Required  and follow the step-by-step instructions.

  You can also review the Accepting your grants online (PDF) quick-start guide if you have any additional questions.