Post-termination exercise window

Also called: PTEP, exercise period, 90-day window

In one line

The limited time after you leave a company in which you must exercise your vested options or lose them — classically 90 days.

In plain English

When you quit or are let go, a clock starts. If you don't exercise your vested options within the window (often just 90 days), they expire worthless. Some companies offer longer windows.

If you were explaining it to a 5-year-old

When you stop doing chores, you have 90 days to use your toy vouchers. After that they turn into scrap paper.

Why it matters when you sell

This deadline forces a fast, expensive decision — pay to exercise (and maybe owe tax) now, or walk away. Knowing your window is critical before leaving.

Put it to use

Options during your exit window · Cost to exercise + AMT

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Sources

A general market-practice term. See how we define and source the glossary in our methodology. General information, not advice.

Educational information only — not financial, tax or legal advice, and not an offer to buy or sell any security. Definitions are general; your own documents and local law govern your situation. PrivateTechShares is independent and not a broker or marketplace.

Post-termination exercise window

Related terms

Put it to use