Equity Refresh Grant Calculator
Equity refresh grants — annual top-up RSU or option grants to maintain target equity holdings — are the highest-overlooked compensation element. At FAANG companies, refresh grants typically replace 30-50% of original equity over 4 years.
Why Refresh Grants Matter
Original 4-year grants vest by year 4. Without refresh, equity comp drops to zero. Refresh grants on a rolling basis maintain 'total equity holdings' targeted by level. FAANG companies refresh annually for performers, every 2-3 years for average performers, never for low performers.
Typical Refresh Sizes By Band
Standard refresh is 15-50% of original grant value depending on performance and level. Top performer at IC level might get $200K refresh on $400K original. Promo refresh can equal or exceed original to reset 4-year vesting at higher target.
Refresh Negotiation Levers
Refresh grants are typically not contractual — at company discretion. Strong negotiation move at hire: get refresh expectations documented in offer letter. Standard target: 25-50% of original annually with performance gate. Pre-IPO companies more flexible than post-IPO.
Source: Levels.fyi compensation data; FAANG-equivalent compensation benchmarks. Last updated: May 2026.