A Complete Guide to Carta: Features & Pricing

When it comes to equity management software, Carta has become a popular choice for businesses of all sizes. Many companies turn to Carta.com for its robust solutions, but like any software, it has its strengths and weaknesses. In this guide, we’ll explore what is Carta, its pricing, features, and more, to help you decide if it’s the right solution for your equity management needs.

What is Carta?

For those unfamiliar with Carta, it’s a comprehensive equity management platform that helps businesses manage their cap tables, employee stock options, and valuations. The software is designed to simplify the process of tracking ownership, issuing digital securities, and ensuring compliance with IRS and SEC regulations. Carta software is widely used by startups, enterprises, and investors to streamline their equity operations.

Carta Pricing

While specific Carta pricing may vary based on business needs, pricing generally increases with the complexity of equity structures and the number of stakeholders involved. Smaller businesses may see lower pricing tiers, while larger organizations with complex structures should expect higher-tier pricing. For exact rates and customized options, it’s best to reach out to Carta customer service or visit Carta.com for more details.

Carta Valuation Services

Another key feature of Carta is its ability to provide 409A valuations. Carta valuation services ensure that your company’s equity is valued in compliance with regulatory standards. This is particularly beneficial for businesses preparing for funding rounds or tax events, as having an accurate and audit-ready valuation is crucial.

Carta Stock and App for Employees

For employees who hold equity, Carta stock management is made easy with their platform. Employees can view and track their holdings in real time through the Carta app. The app also allows employees to monitor their vesting schedules, exercise options, and see the current value of their shares, which simplifies the process for both employers and employees.

Carta Customer Service: What to Expect

When it comes to support, Carta customer service is available through various channels, including email and phone. While many users report positive experiences, some have noted that response times can be slower, particularly during high-demand periods such as tax season or during fundraising efforts. This could be an area for improvement, especially for businesses relying on timely assistance from their equity management provider.

Pros of Carta Software

• User-Friendly Interface: One of the biggest advantages of Carta software is its intuitive design, making it easy for both business owners and employees to navigate.
• Comprehensive Equity Solutions: Beyond cap table management, Carta offers a full suite of equity management tools, including Carta valuation services, digital securities, and investor relations features.
• Employee Engagement: Through the Carta app, employees can easily manage and track their equity, which fosters transparency and engagement.

Cons of Carta

• Carta Pricing: As mentioned, Carta pricing can become steep for larger organizations. While the software is feature-rich, some companies may find more affordable alternatives that provide similar functionality.
• Limited Customization: While Carta software is effective for most businesses, it offers limited flexibility for companies with unique or highly specialized equity structures.
• Customer Service Response Times: While Carta customer service is available, some users report slower response times, especially during busy periods, which could be frustrating for companies needing immediate support.

How Astrella Solves Carta’s Limitations

While Carta.com offers a comprehensive solution for many businesses, its high costs and limited customization options may not suit every organization. Astrella’s equity management platform, provides a solution that addresses these challenges.

• More Competitive Pricing: Unlike Carta pricing, Astrella offers flexible pricing models that grow with your company’s needs without breaking the bank.
• Increased Customization: If your company requires more specialized equity management tools, Astrella provides enhanced flexibility that allows you to tailor the platform to your exact requirements.
• Faster Customer Service: At Astrella, we understand the importance of timely support. Our customer service team is known for fast, responsive assistance, especially during critical times.

For more information, explore how Astrella compares to Carta here.