Earlier quoted context omitted.
If you have RSUs that were in while you were working in California or a resident of California, the Franchise Tax Board claims a portion of the income as California source when (if) they finally vest. That could be years later, when you're no longer a resident. If you move from California to another country, and are subject to US Federal Income tax, and don't qualify for an exemption, the Franchise Tax Board still co…
This looks like you are making stuff up. I don't think it's a small motivation of Musk to escape the tax rate when he starts to sell his shares. Just because he vested them while in CA - if he's a resident of Texas when he sells I don't think he owes CA a dime.
It depends on what type of shares/options/equity grants, and what's still vesting, and what isn't.
ISOs that are exercised in a qualifying disposition are taxed based on residency on the day of exercise.
RSUs that vest while you're a resident are taxed on vest day, and any capital gains from that are taxed based on residency on the day of the sale, yes.
RSUs that vest while you're not a resident are taxed on vest day, and a portion of the income will be california source if you worked in California during a portion of the vesting period, or if you were a residing during a portion of the vesting period.
https://www.ftb.ca.gov/forms/misc/1004.html#E-Restricted-Sto...