<prompt> Human: I am a recent engineer graduate in California and have been offered a full-time position at a 5yr old startup.They are offering me 15hr cash 15hr of shareholder ownership. I would be an independent contractor with the plan of going to W-2 the start of 2019 at the earliest.I really need a job and dont want negotiations to go south so Im wondering what I can reasonably request as a counter offer.I also really need advice on things I havent considered; what should I watch out for and research before accepting the position? Do I need to be concerned about the shareholder portion of my earnings what is its actual value, do I have to pay extra taxes on that, etc.?Im somewhat concerned because I am a few months from turning 26 and will soon be off my parents health insurance. I am thinking of countering with 20hr cash and 20hr stock.  <response>: The laws regarding independent contractor vs W2 are not up for interpretation. They are very clear especially in California. I have a feeling this startup is illegaly defining you as independent to save on taxes and healthcare. Dont forget that your taxes will be much higher as an independent contractor. 