Accountants for VC Backed Startups
Building a high-growth startup? The accountants on Sam’s List specialize in venture-backed companies—covering everything from 409A valuations and ASC 606 to burn rate tracking, cap table support, and R&D tax credit optimization. These professionals understand fundraising, investor reporting, and the fast-paced needs of early-stage startups.
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!
Accountants
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Why VC-Backed Startups Need Specialized Accountants
Startup accounting isn’t just about books and taxes—it’s about building investor trust and extending runway. A startup accountant should help with:
409A Valuations: For option grants and equity compliance
Burn Rate + Runway Management: Forecasting and planning for future raises
Cap Table + Equity Tracking: Managing SAFEs, notes, and stock option plans
ASC 606 Compliance: Especially critical for SaaS revenue recognition
R&D Tax Credits: Reducing payroll tax liability and maximizing cash flow
Due Diligence Prep: Clean financials, audit-ready reporting, and fundraising support
The right accountant won’t just file your taxes—they’ll help you raise, scale, and exit smarter.
409A Valuations: For option grants and equity compliance
Burn Rate + Runway Management: Forecasting and planning for future raises
Cap Table + Equity Tracking: Managing SAFEs, notes, and stock option plans
ASC 606 Compliance: Especially critical for SaaS revenue recognition
R&D Tax Credits: Reducing payroll tax liability and maximizing cash flow
Due Diligence Prep: Clean financials, audit-ready reporting, and fundraising support
The right accountant won’t just file your taxes—they’ll help you raise, scale, and exit smarter.
FrequentlyAsked Questions
How much does a startup accountant cost?
Startup accountants typically charge $500–$3,000/month, depending on services like 409A valuations, fractional CFO support, and financial modeling.
What kind of accountant does a VC-backed startup need?
You need a CPA or firm that specializes in venture-backed startups, ideally with experience in: Equity comp & cap table tracking
SaaS metrics and ASC 606
R&D tax credits and QSBS
Fundraising support and due diligence
SaaS metrics and ASC 606
R&D tax credits and QSBS
Fundraising support and due diligence
Do pre-seed startups need a CPA?
If you’ve raised money, granted options, or plan to raise soon, you need a startup-savvy accountant. Pre-seed teams with clean books are far more fundable.
Why does 409A valuation matter?
A 409A valuation determines your startup’s common stock price for option grants. It’s required by the IRS and critical for issuing equity without tax risk.
Can a fractional CFO help with fundraising?
Yes—many startup accountants offer fractional CFO services, helping with financial modeling, board reporting, investor decks, and capital strategy.
Not sure who’s right for you as a vc backed startup? Answer a few quick questions, and we’ll introduce you to someone who fits.
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Sam’s List is a directory for exploring accountants, bookkeepers, fractional CFOs, financial advisors, and wealth managers. We do not provide financial, investment, tax, or legal advice, nor do we recommend or endorse any specific professional. Some professionals participate in paid programs for additional visibility or leads. Users should independently verify any professional before engaging their services. Learn more in ourTerms of Service.
