Startup409A vs Carta vs Eqvista: Which 409A Valuation Provider Is Right for Your Startup in 2026?
If you're a startup founder preparing to issue ESOPs or just closed a funding round, you've likely been Googling "best 409A valuation provider." Three names come up repeatedly: Carta, Eqvista, and Startup409A.
They all deliver IRS-compliant 409A reports — but the similarities end there. Pricing, turnaround time, who they're built for, and the level of human support vary dramatically.
This guide breaks it all down so you can make the right call for your startup.
Quick Comparison: Startup409A vs Carta vs Eqvista
| Startup409A | Carta | Eqvista | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Turnaround | 5–7 business days | 2–4 weeks | 5–10 business days |
| Pricing (Seed) | Fixed fee, transparent | ~$1,200–$2,000 (bundled) / $3,500+ standalone | ~$990 (startup plan) |
| Certification | CVA / NACVA certified | In-house analysts + independent appraisers | NACVA certified |
| Audit / IRS Support | Lifetime, included | Included | Lifetime, included |
| Cap Table Software | No (valuation-only) | Yes (full platform) | Yes (integrated) |
| Best For | Indian founders with Delaware C-Corps; US startups | US startups already on Carta platform | Startups wanting cap table + 409A bundled |
| India / Cross-border | ✅ Specialized | ❌ US-focused | ❌ US-focused |
| Direct Analyst Access | ✅ Yes (Zoom calls) | ❌ Ticket-based | Limited |
| Fixed-fee Pricing | ✅ Transparent, no surprises | ❌ Varies by plan/tier | ✅ Mostly fixed |
Final Verdict
For most Indian founders and US startups, Startup409A offers the best combination of speed, expertise, and value especially if you don't need a full equity management platform yet.
Carta is the gold standard for US companies already deep in their equity management stack. Eqvista is a solid middle ground for those who want software + valuation at an accessible price point.
But if your priority is a fast, accurate, defensible 409A from certified analysts who understand your specific situation including cross-border India-US structures — Startup409A is built exactly for that.