Delaware franchise tax par value by share class
A cap-table source guide for Delaware corporations with multiple par-value share classes.
Summary
Delaware method comparison needs the corporation's authorized shares, issued shares and par value by class. Do not replace charter par value with fair market value, preferred price, 409A value, or a spreadsheet default. No-par stock is outside the supported product lane.
Par value by class is a charter fact, not market value.
| Needed by class | Authorized shares, issued shares, par valueSeparate common and preferred where applicable. |
|---|---|
| Do not use | 409A or preferred priceThose are not charter par value. |
| Hard stop | No-par stockOutside Delaware Franchise Desk scope. |
Where to find par value
Use the certificate of incorporation, amendments, stock ledger, cap table platform exports, and board-approved equity records. Keep the source document with the annual report checklist.
Example
A corporation has common stock with $0.00001 par value and preferred stock with $0.00001 par value. Those values may look tiny, but they are the method inputs; a $1.00 preferred issue price is not the same field.
When to stop
Stop for no-par shares, missing charter amendments, inconsistent cap table exports, uncertain treasury shares, recapitalizations, mergers, or legal-status questions.
Common questions
Is par value the same as fair market value?
No. Par value is a charter stock fact. Fair market value, 409A value and preferred financing price are different concepts.
What if one class has no par value?
No-par stock is a hard stop for this self-preparation workflow. Use Delaware official guidance or professional help.
Related guides
When is Delaware Franchise Tax due?
The March 1 annual report and franchise tax deadline for active domestic Delaware corporations.
Delaware franchise tax minimum and annual report fee
The minimum tax and filing fee numbers founders should separate before comparing methods.
Does a zero-revenue Delaware corporation still owe franchise tax?
A direct answer for founders whose Delaware corporation has no revenue but still received a franchise tax or annual report notice.
Official sources
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