Can I Get a 409A Valuation Without a Cap Table Platform?

Yes. You do not need a cap table platform to get a 409A valuation. Upload a CSV or your existing cap table file, subscribe at $99/month on a 12-month term, and receive an audit-ready report within 48 hours of us receiving your documents.

Do I need a specific cap table platform first?

No. A 409A needs a clear picture of your capitalization and recent financing, not a specific software vendor. If you keep the cap table in a spreadsheet, counsel export, or another system, that is enough to start. Cap table upload on 409A.io takes under 5 minutes. CSV is supported.

409A.io is built for pre-seed through Series A with standard cap tables: common, preferred, a standard option pool, SAFEs, and convertible notes. We also work with leading cap table providers and offer preferred pricing through those relationships when you already use one. Either path works. The report does not depend on locking into a platform first.

How does the process work without a platform?

Subscribe at get-started, complete the short onboarding form, and upload your documents. 409A.io uses an OPM backsolve to the most recent financing with a GPC cross-check, prepared in accordance with AICPA guidelines for privately-held equity issued as compensation. Same methodology used by firms charging $3,000 to $5,000.

Typical firms charge $3,000 to $5,000 and take 2 to 4 weeks. Big Four firms often charge $8,000+ and take 4 to 8 weeks. 409A.io delivers an audit-ready report within 48 hours of receiving your documents. Every report is reviewed by a valuation professional from the MELD team before delivery. Direct auditor support is included. We answer auditor questions about methodology and conclusions.

409A.io was spun out of MELD Valuation. MELD has completed 10,000+ valuations across 20+ industry sectors, valued $250B+ in assets, and has zero audit issues across its history. The team brings 16 years of valuation experience.

When should I get one if I am not on a platform yet?

Get the 409A before you grant options. The valuation sets the fair market value used for your option strike price. Granting options without a current 409A puts the safe harbor presumption at risk. Update at least every 12 months, and after any material event such as a new round. Updates upon request and material-event coverage are included during your term.

One plan covers the initial report, updates, material-event coverage, and auditor support at $99/month on a 12-month term, billed monthly. Everything is included. You pay first at get-started, then complete onboarding.

If your structure later includes non-standard instruments, structured equity, or complex waterfalls, graduate to MELD, or tell us your situation and we will point you the right way. Same team either path.

What is the next step?

Subscribe at get-started, then upload your CSV or cap table export and the rest of your documents. The audit-ready report arrives within 48 hours once we have them. No platform install required.

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