If you're invited to join an employee share scheme, you may be able to buy shares at a discount on the current market rate. Schemes vary, so check the offer terms and consider the pros and cons before you sign up.

How an employee share scheme works

In an employee share scheme, you get shares or can buy shares in the company you work for. This is also known as an employee share purchase plan, share options or equity scheme.

Companies use share schemes to attract, retain and motivate employees. They also align employee interests with those of shareholders.

There are different ways of paying for shares, such as:

• salary sacrifice over a set period (say, 6 months)
• dividends received on shares
• a loan from your employer
• full payment up front

You may be eligible to receive shares as a performance bonus, or as remuneration instead of a higher salary.

Larger companies typically offer 'ordinary shares', which give an equity investment in the company. In a smaller company, you may get dividends only, which means you don't get other shareholder rights, such as a vote at the annual general meeting.

What to check before you sign up

Research the company to see how well it's doing and whether the shares are likely to increase in value. See choosing shares to buy for guidance on how to do this.

Each share scheme is different, so look at the terms and conditions of the offer. Check:

• when you can buy or sell the shares
• if you will receive dividend payments
• what happens to your shares if you leave the company
• the tax benefits (see employee share schemes on the Australian Taxation Office website)

Ask questions if there's anything you're unsure about.

Consider your personal circumstances and financial goals. Can you afford to buy shares at this point? Or do you have other priorities like paying off your mortgage faster or contributing extra to super?

If you decide to go ahead, think about how you can diversify to spread your investment risk. What if your shares fall in value? Or the company you work for goes out of business?

If you need professional advice, talk to an accountant or financial adviser.

Pros and cons of employee share schemes

Pros

• You benefit financially if the company performs well.
• It could motivate you to stay longer with the company.
• You may be able to buy shares at a discount to current market price.
• You may not have to pay a brokerage fee when you buy or sell shares.
• You could get tax benefits, depending on the features of the share scheme and your financial situation.

Cons

• There are likely to be limitations on when you can buy or sell shares.
• If you're paying for a share package over time, you might have to pay it off before you can sell the shares.
• You may have to give back or sell your shares when you leave the company.
• Your share package could come with restrictions. For example, you may have to meet performance targets, or stay with the company for a certain number of years.
• You could lose money if your shares go down in value or the company goes out of business.