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Also known as: single trigger, single-trigger vesting

Single Trigger Acceleration

TechnicalLegalOperations

Definition

Single Trigger Acceleration: Single trigger acceleration vests all unvested equity upon a single event, typically an acquisition. It's more employee-friendly but less common because it can reduce buyer interest and complicate acquisitions.

Example Usage

“With single trigger, all my unvested options vested immediately when the acquisition closed.”

Common Misconceptions

Single trigger is standard. Double trigger is more common; single trigger requires negotiation.
Buyers don't care about trigger terms. Single trigger can significantly affect acquisition negotiations.
Single trigger means you can leave immediately. You may still have retention incentives from the buyer.

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