Insight

Section 1202: Qualified Small Business Stock

Articles

Section 1202 of the Internal Revenue Code offers one of the most powerful tax incentives available to startup and small business investors — allowing non-corporate taxpayers to exclude up to 100% of their gain from the sale of qualified small business stock (QSB stock), potentially resulting in a federal tax rate of 0%.

In this article, Vinson & Elkins Tax Partner David Strong provides a comprehensive overview of Section 1202, including the four core eligibility requirements, how gain exclusions are calculated, and the rollover provisions available under Section 1045. The article also addresses the significant changes introduced by the One Big Beautiful Bill Act (July 2025), which raised the aggregate gross assets cap to $75 million, increased the minimum per-investor exclusion limit to $15 million, and introduced a new tiered holding period structure for stock acquired after July 4, 2025.

Whether you are structuring a new investment, advising a portfolio company, or planning for exit, this article offers practical guidance on maximizing Section 1202 benefits — and avoiding the common pitfalls that can inadvertently disqualify otherwise eligible stock.

Download the full article in the right column.


This information is provided by Vinson & Elkins LLP for educational and informational purposes only and is not intended, nor should it be construed, as legal advice.

Discover our latest:

Insights

CLE Events

Sixth Annual Navigating the Annual Meeting and Reporting Season 

Join leading practitioners and industry voices for a timely discussion of the legal, regulatory, and governance developments shaping the next proxy season.

November 11, 2026

November 11, 2026 • 1-minute read

Navigating Series Background Decorative Image

Events

David Strong Speaking at PLI Tax Strategies Conference in New York, Chicago, and Los Angeles

Partner David Strong will present on “Section 1202 Qualified Small Business Stock (QSBS)” at PLI’s Tax Strategies for Corporate Acquisitions, …

Multiple Dates

Multiple Dates • 1-minute read

Events

Vinson & Elkins Sponsoring and Speaking at TEI Annual Conference

Vinson & Elkins is a platinum sponsor of the 2026 TEI Annual Conference, taking place October 18–21 in Nashville, Tennessee. …

October 18–21, 2026

October 18–21, 2026 • 1-minute read

Events

Jenny Speck to Speak at 18th Annual OPIS RFS, RINs & Biofuels Forum

Partner Jenny Speck will speak on the panel “Credit Where Credit is Due: Finalizing 45Z” at the 18th Annual OPIS …

October 13, 2026

October 13, 2026 • 1-minute read

Events

Alex Canizares to Speak at The Coalition for Common Sense in Government Procurement’s Compliance Training Conference

On October 7, Alex Canizares will be speaking on a panel titled “Compliance and the Civil False Claims Act” as …

October 7, 2026

October 7, 2026 • 1-minute read

News & Achievements
V&E

Get in Touch

Thoughts or questions? Send us a note, and we’ll connect you with the right person.

The ESG GC: How Your Role as Chief Legal Officer is Integral To Your Company’s ESG Efforts Background Image