409.AI vs Scalar
Compare 409.AI and Scalar across 409A and the broader valuation lifecycle, covering pricing, turnaround, expert review, valuation coverage, and best-fit company stage.
409.AI vs Scalar at a glance
| 409.AI | Scalar | |
|---|---|---|
| Starting price | From $899 as a standalone report | Custom quotes; high-touch independent firm |
| Typical turnaround | Draft report in 24 hours | Firm engagement cycles, commonly days to weeks |
| Best fit | Startups that want speed, price, and a simple valuation workflow | Companies wanting a high-touch firm across recurring valuation needs |
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
How do 409.AI and Scalar differ on price?
409.AI publishes pricing from $899 per report, while Scalar quotes each engagement. For routine valuations the published price is usually the lower and more predictable path; for complex scoped work a quote can be appropriate.
Is 409.AI faster than Scalar?
For standard valuations, typically yes: 409.AI delivers a draft in 24 hours after onboarding, while firm engagement cycles commonly run days to weeks depending on scope and complexity.
Does 409.AI only handle 409A valuations?
No. 409.AI covers 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 — a similar breadth to an independent firm, delivered through a productized workflow.
Are both defensible with auditors?
Yes. Scalar builds reports for auditor review with a multi-tiered internal process, and 409.AI reports are expert-reviewed, prepared for IRS safe harbor reliance where applicable, and supported with audit defence.
When does Scalar make more sense than 409.AI?
When the work involves complex instruments such as derivatives or fairness opinions, or when you want a long-term relationship with one firm handling every valuation event with dedicated senior attention. For routine 409A and reporting valuations, 409.AI is the faster, more affordable choice.
Why do startups choose 409.AI over Scalar?
Transparent pricing and speed: an expert-reviewed report from $899 in 24 hours, with the cost on the page rather than quoted per engagement. 409.AI covers the same broad lifecycle — 409A, ASC 718, ASC 820, PPA, UK share schemes, and more — from one online intake.