Startup Human Resources

Understand founder dilution—learn how rounds, option pools, and SAFEs change ownership and how to model dilution before you raise.

Set up equity vesting correctly—learn what a vesting period is, common startup schedules, cliffs, and why investors require them.

Calculate the real cost of your startup hires with Kruze Consulting’s guide – consider salary, taxes, benefits, perks, and hidden expenses.

Get our startup compensation guide for first hires, with salary ranges, equity benchmarks, and tips on balancing cash, options, and burn for early-stage teams.

Discover the hidden costs of startup payroll. Learn how to optimize payroll expenses, choose the right provider, and navigate complex tax regulations.

Offer a childcare stipend the right way by understanding tax treatment, DCAP alternatives, and benefit structures that help retain talent.

Set a fair CTO salary—learn typical ranges, how stage and location change pay, and how to balance cash compensation with equity.

Make sure that your company gets a favorable tax rate. Learn about the 83(b) election for shareholders as well as how and when to file. Read more.

For founders, picking a payroll system, and knowing how to compare the options, presents an important decision that will matter a lot over time.

Launch an employee stock option plan that attracts talent, boosts retention, and stays investor-ready from seed through Series B.

Use our free spreadsheet to model your startup’s option pool and estimate dilution from new hires and future rounds.

It's really important to state upfront that no venture capitalist or board member ever wants to fire the founder from a startup.