Startup Equity tools
409A Valuation checklist
Compliance
Do I need a 409A right now?
Answer 5 quick questions. We'll tell you whether you need a 409A valuation — and how urgently.
Question 1 of 5
Has your company ever had a 409A valuation?
A 409A is the IRS-required independent valuation that sets your option strike price.
No — we've never had one
Yes — and it's less than 12 months old
Yes — but it's more than 12 months old
I'm not sure
Question 2 of 5
Are you planning to grant stock options in the next 90 days?
Includes new hire grants, refresh grants, or any new option awards.
Yes — actively planning grants
Maybe — hiring but equity not confirmed yet
No — not in the next 90 days
Question 3 of 5
Have you closed a new funding round in the last 12 months?
Includes SAFE notes, convertible notes, and priced equity rounds.
Yes — a priced equity round (Seed, Series A, etc.)
Yes — SAFE notes or convertible notes
No new funding in the last 12 months
Question 4 of 5
Has any of this happened in the last 6 months?
Select the most significant one if multiple apply.
Received an acquisition offer or term sheet
Significant revenue change (up or down 25%+)
Hired or about to hire a key executive with equity
None of these
Question 5 of 5
What stage is your company at?
Helps tailor the next steps and pricing context.
Pre-seed (first angel / friends & family round)
Seed ($2M–$10M raised)
Series A ($10M+ raised)
Why this result
Educational guidance only — not legal or tax advice. Talk to your attorney or a qualified 409A provider before making grant decisions.
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