The right to receive shares of common stock at a future date, such as a retirement date. This right is usually subject to vesting. Deferred stock units can earn the equivalent of any cash dividends, usually payable into more deferred stock units, but they can't give you shareholder voting rights. Deferred stock units can be the same as restricted stock units, depending on how your company uses these terms and designs its plan. For details, see the related FAQ.