<prompt> Human: Long story short: 10 years ago I invested 10,000 in a private software company, 2000 shares at 5share. Theres talk that the company may either soon be issuing dividends no amount stated, or buying back shares at 150share.My questions:1 Whats the best strategy to dividends? Tax-wise, etc. How about if I re-invest my dividends into the company? Does this affect how much taxes I pay?2 Best legal tax shelter if I sell my shares for cash?3 What to do investmenttax-wise with that cash?4 Anything else Im not thinking of?FYI I am American, extremely low-income, live hand-to-mouth and have no savings or property. This was just dumb luck, but it was a long time in the coming! I dont need to buy myself anything if I get the cash; Id rather put it into something smart so I can either have a secure nest egg, or have some supplemental income through dividends. Thanks in advance!EDIT Sincere thank yous to everyone who took the time to offer their input and advice here. Will make note of all that has been said, and, yes, seek out a professional financial adviser when the time comes.  <response>: Also, dont tell anyone you made this money. 