I need an ESOP expert

[Guest creative1]

I am writing an article on ESOPs and would like to use some quotes from someone who has established an ESOP in his/her company. Only a couple questions needed and I can email them to you. Please contact me ASAP (by 6/4.)

[Kirk Maldonado]

Contact The ESOP Association in Washingon, D.C. I'm sure that they could give you the names of employers that maintain ESOPs in your vicinity.

[Guest nemesis]

I've worked for a private internet startup for 2 years and I was granted stock options when I joined the company. The IPO is in july and my company has asked everyone to sign an ammendment to our option plan that states that we won't sell for 180 days. I know that this agreement was a standard part of management level emplyoees stock option agreements but can my company force me to sign this amendment if I am not managment?

[Guest elmargaret]

My small, 30-person company is in the early stages of developing an ESOP plan. As a first step, we simply want to define retirement. At what age can an employee retire and require that his/her shares be redeemed. Is age 65 the norm? 62? Assuming it is 65. Can they stay on until age 70 and make the decision then if they want leaving a 5-year window for elective retirment? Can you retire and continue to work for the company as a consultant. Any advice on this would be greatly appreciated. First time user!!

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emm