409.AI vs Carta
Compare 409.AI and Carta across 409A and the broader valuation lifecycle, covering pricing, turnaround, expert review, valuation coverage, and best-fit company stage.
409.AI vs Carta at a glance
| 409.AI | Carta | |
|---|---|---|
| Starting price | From $899 as a standalone report | Bundled with cap table plans; entry plans reported around $2,800/yr |
| Typical turnaround | Draft report in 24 hours | Commonly 5–15 business days |
| Best fit | Startups that want speed, price, and a simple valuation workflow | Series A+ companies wanting one equity platform |
Competitor information reflects publicly available pricing and product descriptions and may change over time. Confirm current packaging and pricing directly with each provider.
Frequently asked questions
Is 409.AI cheaper than Carta for a 409A valuation?
Generally yes for the valuation itself. 409.AI starts at $899 as a standalone report, while Carta valuations are typically part of cap table plans publicly reported to start around $2,800 per year. If you already pay for Carta anyway, compare the marginal cost of its included valuation against a standalone report.
Can I use 409.AI if my cap table is on Carta?
Yes. A 409A valuation does not need to come from your cap table provider. Companies commonly export their cap table data and use an independent valuation provider, then apply the resulting strike price to grants in any equity system.
Will auditors and investors accept a 409.AI report?
409.AI reports are prepared for IRS safe harbor reliance, reviewed by a valuation expert, and supported with audit defence. Auditors evaluate the quality of the analysis and documentation rather than the brand of the provider.
How fast is 409.AI compared with Carta?
409.AI delivers a draft report in 24 hours after onboarding. Carta turnaround is commonly reported at five to fifteen business days depending on company stage and queue volumes.
When does switching away from Carta make sense?
Most commonly when a company only needs the annual 409A refresh and finds the bundled platform cost hard to justify, or when a fundraise or option grant deadline requires a faster turnaround than the current queue offers.
Does 409.AI only handle 409A valuations?
No. 409.AI covers the broader valuation lifecycle, including ASC 718 stock comp reporting, ASC 820 fair value for funds, IFRS 2, UK EMI and CSOP schemes, purchase price allocations, impairment testing, gift & estate, ESOP, and IP valuations — useful when needs grow beyond the annual 409A.
Why do startups switch from Carta to 409.AI?
Usually cost and speed: an expert-reviewed valuation from $899 with a draft in 24 hours, without paying for a full platform subscription to get it. Teams keep their cap table wherever they like and use 409.AI for the report itself, then add ASC 718, PPA, or other valuations from the same provider as needs grow.