If they owe you back pay and they're not being transparent about their "equity offer" you need to take steps to get in line for your money NOW. Talk to a lawyer

If they owe you back pay and they're not being transparent about their "equity offer" you need to take steps to get in line for your money NOW. Talk to a lawyer. Assuming this is the US since you're quoting dollars: if you're an employee, a complaint to the state Dept of Labor about back pay usually puts you first in line for money. If you're on contract, you might be able to get a lein on...something of value. Seriously, don't wait on this if you expect to ever get paid.