Is a $99/Month 409A Valuation Legit?

Yes, when the method, the reviewer, and the auditor support match what a full-price firm delivers. 409A.io charges $99/month on a 12-month term, uses the same methodology as firms charging $3,000 to $5,000, and has a human review every report before delivery.

Why can a 409A cost $99/month?

The price is possible because AI does the computational work and early-stage cap tables are simple. A human reviews every report, and we handle the auditor.

The method does not change with the price. 409A.io uses an OPM backsolve to the most recent financing with a GPC cross-check. Reports are prepared in accordance with AICPA guidelines for privately-held equity issued as compensation.

For comparison, 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.

What should a legit 409A include at any price?

Check four things before you buy.

• A recognized method. Ask how the value is reached. 409A.io uses an OPM backsolve with a GPC cross-check.
• A human reviewer. Every 409A.io report is reviewed by a valuation professional from the MELD team before delivery. Nothing goes out unreviewed.
• Auditor support. Direct auditor support is included. We answer auditor questions about methodology and conclusions.
• Coverage for the year. Updates upon request and material-event coverage are included during your term. A mid-year round is covered once you send updated documents.

A 409A supports safe harbor, which is a presumption that the valuation is reasonable, not a guarantee. No provider can promise IRS or auditor acceptance. This is not legal, tax, or accounting advice.

Who is behind 409A.io?

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. That track record sits behind every 409A.io report.

When does $99/month fit?

It fits pre-seed through Series A companies with standard cap tables: common, preferred, a standard option pool, SAFEs, and convertible notes. It fits companies that just raised or are about to issue options.

It does not fit Series B and beyond, structured equity, or complex waterfalls. When your cap table gets complex, graduate to MELD, or tell us your situation and we will point you the right way. Same team either path. We also have a relationship with a leading cap table provider and can offer preferred pricing through it.

How does the 12-month term work?

You pay $99/month, billed monthly, on a 12-month term. Everything is included: the initial report, updates upon request, material-event coverage, and direct auditor support. You should refresh your 409A at least every 12 months and after any material event, so the term is built to cover the whole year.

What is the next step?

Subscribe at get-started, complete the short onboarding form, and upload your cap table and documents. Cap table upload takes under 5 minutes, and CSV is supported. You get an audit-ready report within 48 hours of receiving your documents.

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