Just joined my first startup. It is seed funded and I think it has the potential to be massive. I'm employee number 4 and was given a substantial number of shares.

According to the fair market value, if I exercised my shares I'd have to pay the company $15,000. I am not willing to risk the cash today on something so speculative. From my understanding, if I were to exercise later I would have to pay the AMT at time of exercise. If I exercise now or before the next 409A, I can file a form 83(b) election and then just pay long term capital gains when I ultimately sell those shares.

The founders seem very reasonable and I'm trying to figure out what my options are. Any advice?