Joined Startup for 1% Equity — Now Told I Owe $30K in Taxes on It

Looking for advice on this situation. Joined Startup for 1% Equity - Now Told I Owe $30K in Taxes on It Any guidance would be greatly appreciated.

Details: I'm in a situation where I need to understand my legal options. Has anyone dealt with something similar?

Securities compliance isn't optional. Even for a friends-and-family round, you need a proper exemption (usually Reg D 506(b)). The penalties for unregistered securities offerings are severe and personal.

At the seed stage, simplicity wins. SAFEs are simpler than convertible notes (no maturity date, no interest). But some investors prefer the forced conversion mechanic of a note. Know your leverage.

Securities compliance isn't optional. Even for a friends-and-family round, you need a proper exemption (usually Reg D 506(b)). The penalties for unregistered securities offerings are severe and personal.

Securities compliance isn't optional. Even for a friends-and-family round, you need a proper exemption (usually Reg D 506(b)). The penalties for unregistered securities offerings are severe and personal.

Securities compliance isn't optional. Even for a friends-and-family round, you need a proper exemption (usually Reg D 506(b)). The penalties for unregistered securities offerings are severe and personal.

Securities compliance isn't optional. Even for a friends-and-family round, you need a proper exemption (usually Reg D 506(b)). The penalties for unregistered securities offerings are severe and personal.

Securities compliance isn't optional. Even for a friends-and-family round, you need a proper exemption (usually Reg D 506(b)). The penalties for unregistered securities offerings are severe and personal.

Securities compliance isn't optional. Even for a friends-and-family round, you need a proper exemption (usually Reg D 506(b)). The penalties for unregistered securities offerings are severe and personal.

At the seed stage, simplicity wins. SAFEs are simpler than convertible notes (no maturity date, no interest). But some investors prefer the forced conversion mechanic of a note. Know your leverage.

Update: Thanks everyone for the guidance. I consulted with an attorney and we're moving forward. The advice here helped me understand what questions to ask and what to expect. Will update when there's a resolution.