Axsome Therapeutics, Inc.

HQ
New York
506 Total Employees
Year Founded: 2012

Axsome Therapeutics, Inc. Compensation & Benefits

Updated on September 09, 2026

This page summarizes recurring themes identified from responses generated by popular LLMs to common candidate questions about Axsome Therapeutics, Inc. and has not been reviewed or approved by Axsome Therapeutics, Inc..

How are the compensation & benefits at Axsome Therapeutics, Inc.?

Strengths in healthcare coverage, equity programs, and broad time‑off policies coexist with comparatively modest 401(k) generosity and a lower starting PTO bank. Together, these dynamics suggest a competitive package that will appeal most to those prioritizing equity and health coverage, while those seeking top‑tier retirement matches or higher initial PTO may perceive gaps.

Key Insight for Candidates

Defining tradeoff: Axsome loads total compensation into equity (new‑hire/annual grants + 15% ESPP) while core cash benefits are only moderate (effective 4% 401(k) match with two‑year vest, 15‑day starting PTO). This shifts value to stock performance and tenure. Candidates should assess risk tolerance and vesting before weighing offers.

Evidence in Action

  • Equity-First Ownership Model — Restricted Stock Units (RSUs), Stock Options, and a 15% Employee Stock Purchase Plan (ESPP) are standard components of Axsome’s compensation. This ownership-heavy mix aligns employees with growth outcomes, enhancing retention and long‑term wealth potential.
  • Family-Centric Leave Program — Paid Parental Leave provides up to 12 weeks at full pay for primary caregivers, 4 weeks for secondary caregivers, plus 5 days of Grandparent Leave. This family-forward policy normalizes caregiving, reduces financial stress, and supports real time off during major life events.

Positive Themes About Axsome Therapeutics, Inc.

  • Healthcare Strength: Employer contributions cover around 85% of medical, dental, and vision premiums, with multiple plan options (EPO/PPO/HDHP) plus company‑paid life, AD&D, and short‑/long‑term disability. Eligibility typically begins the first of the month after start, supporting comprehensive access.
  • Equity Value & Accessibility: New hires commonly receive stock options and RSUs with potential annual grants, alongside an Employee Stock Purchase Plan at a 15% discount. Company materials and postings position equity as a significant component of total rewards.
  • Leave & Time Off Breadth: PTO starts at 15 days and increases to 20 with tenure, complemented by 13 company holidays, floating and mental‑health days, sick time, and a five‑week sabbatical at five years. Paid parental leave up to 12 weeks for birthing parents (four weeks for non‑birthing) plus five days of grandparent leave expand family‑friendly time off.

Considerations About Axsome Therapeutics, Inc.

  • Inadequate Retirement Support: The 401(k) match is 50% on the first 8% of pay (effectively up to a 4% employer match) with full vesting after two years. This structure is portrayed as solid but not top‑tier relative to the most generous peers.
  • Limited Leave & Time Off: PTO begins at 15 days and reaches 20 only with tenure, which is characterized as solid but not top‑tier until accrual builds.
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These insights are generated using AI and may not reflect internal data or verified company information. They are intended solely for general informational purposes and should not be considered a definitive assessment of the company’s reputation. If you are a representative of this company, and would like this page to be removed, you may contact us via this form.
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