Accountants for QSBS Holders
Looking to reduce your tax burden on a startup exit? This page lists top accountants who specialize in Qualified Small Business Stock (QSBS) and Section 1202 tax exclusions. Whether you’re a founder, investor, or employee with stock options, these CPAs offer expert advice on QSBS eligibility, tax-free rollovers under Section 1045, and attestation services. Get the tax savings you deserve—without hiring a full-time CFO.
Need to outsource something else? Search for proactivefinancial advisorsandfractional CFOson Sam’s List too. Make sure to check the reviews, it’s one of the most important parts of your vetting process!
Need to outsource something else? Search for proactivefinancial advisorsandfractional CFOson Sam’s List too. Make sure to check the reviews, it’s one of the most important parts of your vetting process!
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What Does a QSBS Accountant Actually Do?
A QSBS accountant specializes in helping founders, investors, and startup employees reduce capital gains taxes through the Section 1202 tax exemption. Here's what they offer:
Eligibility Review: Analyze whether your stock qualifies for the QSBS exclusion (C-corp status, $50M gross assets, original issue, etc.).
Section 1045 Rollovers: Guide you through tax-free reinvestment strategies if you haven’t held the stock for 5 years.
QSBS Attestation: Help secure attestation letters required for audits, exits, or investor due diligence.
Strategic Tax Planning: Plan multi-year strategies for exit timing, equity structuring, and QSBS “stacking.”
Audit Prep & Documentation: Maintain compliant records to substantiate your QSBS claim in case of IRS review.
Eligibility Review: Analyze whether your stock qualifies for the QSBS exclusion (C-corp status, $50M gross assets, original issue, etc.).
Section 1045 Rollovers: Guide you through tax-free reinvestment strategies if you haven’t held the stock for 5 years.
QSBS Attestation: Help secure attestation letters required for audits, exits, or investor due diligence.
Strategic Tax Planning: Plan multi-year strategies for exit timing, equity structuring, and QSBS “stacking.”
Audit Prep & Documentation: Maintain compliant records to substantiate your QSBS claim in case of IRS review.
FrequentlyAsked Questions
Q: How much does QSBS attestation cost?
A: It depends on the provider. Carta charges $2,500–$4,500 for attestation letters depending on shareholder count, while some tax firms charge up to $12,000 for retroactive letters.
Q: What is the 80% rule for QSBS?
A: To qualify as QSBS, at least 80% of the company’s assets must be used in active business operations during the entire holding period.
Q: How do I qualify for the QSBS tax exclusion?
A: You must hold stock in a domestic C-corp for 5+ years, the company must have <$50M in gross assets at issuance, and you must acquire the shares at original issue—not secondary purchase.
Q: What is Section 1045 and how does it work?
A: Section 1045 lets you defer QSBS capital gains by rolling them into new QSBS stock within 60 days of the sale, preserving your exclusion eligibility.
Q: How much do QSBS accountants charge?
A: Specialized CPAs charge anywhere from $250/hour to flat rates starting at $3,000–$10,000 for QSBS planning, depending on complexity and documentation needs.
Not sure who’s right for you as a QSBS holder? Answer a few quick questions, and we’ll introduce you to someone who fits.
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