Simple Agreement for Future Equity (SAFE)

If your startup is in its early stages, raising funds can be a complicated and exhausting process. Some people choose to ask friends and family to invest. Others would rather speak to angel investors.

Either way, instead of offering convertible notes, which are essentially an instrument of debt, you can suggest a Simple Agreement for Future Equity or SAFE.

At its core, this is a straightforward document that only promises the investment will turn into equity under specific circumstances.

What Is a Simple Agreement for Future Equity (SAFE)

SAFE was created in 2013 by the Y Combinator startup to find an alternative way for companies to get funded. A SAFE agreement is merely a contractual right to own equity in the company at some point in the future.

By signing a SAFE agreement as an investor, you do not own equity yet. Furthermore, given the structure of the SAFE, there is no promise of equity for the investor.

These agreements don't have a maturity date, meaning the company receiving the investment isn't obligated to repay the investors.

Even though the investors don't hold entitlements to shareholder rights, in case of liquidation, they still receive pay. However, the creditors of the company get paid first. The SEC considers SAFE notes as securities.

Other Names for Simple Agreement for Future Equity (SAFE)

Depending on your state, a Simple Agreement for Future Equity (SAFE) may also be known as:

• SAFE Note
• SAFE Agreement
• SAFE Bond

Who Needs a Simple Agreement for Future Equity (SAFE)

Startups who want to get their business going with minimum hassle typically use SAFE Agreements. These documents are relatively easy to implement and don't accrue any loans or interests.

Essentially, some companies prefer using SAFE notes as a flexible way to raise funds and not have to deal with debt, overwhelming paperwork, and legal cost. It also gives the owners of the company more control than with other forms of investments.

Why Use Swyft Forms for Your Simple Agreement for Future Equity (SAFE)

Customized for you, by you

Create your own documents by answering our easy-to-understand questionnaires to get exactly what you need from your Simple Agreement for Future Equity (SAFE).

Specific to Your Jurisdiction

Laws vary by location. Each document on Swyft Forms is customized for your state.

How to Create a Simple Agreement for Future Equity (SAFE) With Swyft Forms

Your Simple Agreement for Future Equity can reflect your ideas and needs precisely. This document should reflect an agreement between the owners and investors in detail. The content of the SAFE is entirely up to you, as long as a few crucial details are covered.

Let Swyft Forms help with our extensive library of attorney-vetted legal forms. The process is fast and easy. All you have to do is fill out our easy-to-understand questionnaire. Once complete, simply download your form as a PDF or Word document from your secure online account.

What Information Will I Need to Create My Simple Agreement for Future Equity (SAFE)

To create your document, please provide:

• Company's Name: The full name of the company and the headquarter address
• Investor's Information: The full legal name of the investor and their contact information
• Terms of the Agreement: All provisions regarding valuation cap and discounts
• Investment Amount: The exact amount of money the investors are giving to the company
• Specified Triggering Event: An event that will allow the investors to purchase equity in the company in a future priced round
• Signatures: A representative of the company and the investor must sign the agreement

Simple Agreement for Future Equity (SAFE) Terms

• Convertible Note: A type of short-term debt instrument used by seed investors
• Valuation Cap: A crucial aspect of SAFE and Convertible note as it entitles investors to receive equity at a lower price
• Maturity Date: A specified date when a company needs to repay the investor
• Liquidity Event: An exit strategy that may entail bankruptcy, merger, acquisition, or an asset sale
• Equity Round: An offering of equity to investors
• Startup Company: A "young company" or a business in the first stages of operations

Simple Agreement for Future Equity (SAFE) Signing Requirements

Whether you're an investor or company owner, reading and reviewing the SAFE agreement is vital. Both parties should be satisfied with the terms of the contract.

Upon review, both parties will sign the agreement in the presence of a witness. Notarization is not a requirement but can be an option that can assure a stronger validity of the contract.

What to Do With Your Simple Agreement for Future Equity (SAFE)

When everyone singes the Simple Agreement for Future Equity, the investor releases the funds to the company.

After that, the company uses the funds in the manner stipulated by the agreement. The investor doesn't get involved in the company's decision-making processes, nor do they actually own any equity yet.