1
Lone Star Business Valuation
VerifiedAustin, TX4.5 (6)
82.0/100
409A ValuationsFundraising & Recapitalizations
Private companies that grant stock options need an independent 409A valuation to set the fair market value of common stock — and to earn the IRS safe harbor that protects employees from severe tax penalties. Startups need their first 409A before their first option grant, and a refresh every 12 months or after any material event such as a funding round.
The providers ranked here range from specialist boutiques to platform-integrated services. Scoring weighs audit-defense track record, appraiser credentials, turnaround time, and verified client reviews across company stages from seed to pre-IPO.
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1
Golden Gate Appraisal
VerifiedSan Francisco, CA4.5 (6)
82.0/100
409A ValuationsComplex SecuritiesFundraising & Recapitalizations
3
Meridian Valuation Group
VerifiedNew York, NY4.7 (3)
80.3/100
409A ValuationsMergers & AcquisitionsFairness Opinions
4
Charles River Valuation
VerifiedCambridge, MA4.5 (4)
80.0/100
409A ValuationsComplex SecuritiesFundraising & Recapitalizations
4
Cascade Valuation Group
VerifiedSeattle, WA4.5 (4)
80.0/100
409A ValuationsMergers & AcquisitionsPurchase Price Allocation
6
Philadelphia Appraisal Group
Philadelphia, PA4.6 (7)
70.6/100
409A ValuationsSBA Loan Valuations
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Methodology
How firms are ranked
Each firm receives a score out of 100 built from five weighted components: verified client reviews (30%), professional credentials such as ASA, CVA, ABV, CFA, and MAFF (25%), the depth of services offered relative to the category (20%), the firm's operational scale (15%), and years in business (10%).
The score is refreshed whenever a review is approved or firm data changes, and overall ranks are recomputed on a schedule so movement reflects real changes, not noise. Within a category or service, we re-rank using the same score restricted to firms that actually offer that work.
Rankings cannot be purchased. Featured placement in the directory is clearly labeled and never affects rank.
Read the full methodology →