What's my business worth? Free calculator
Most small businesses sell on a multiple of Seller's Discretionary Earnings (SDE): profit plus what the owner takes out. Use last year's numbers or your tax return.
Not sure what counts as an add-back? Use the free worksheet
Fill in what applies from last year's P&L or tax return. The total goes into "Add-backs" above. Only add back costs a new owner wouldn't have to pay.
- Don't count the owner's salary here; it has its own box above. Add back pay and perks for one owner only. Other owners who work in the business are a real cost to a buyer.
- Recurring costs aren't add-backs, even if they feel unusual. If it would happen again next year, leave it in.
- Keep the receipts. Buyers and lenders ask for proof of every add-back, and unsupported ones usually get removed or lower the price.
Based on BizBuySell's guide to add-backs and CPA's guide to SDE. Your CPA or broker has the final word.
Want the rules, questions to ask, and red flags? Read the full guide.
Want a broker's view of this number? Send a confidential request.
What happens after you send it, and how it stays confidential
- A person reads it. No automatic blast, no mailing list, and we never sell your details to lead lists.
- Only if you checked the consent box, we pass it to up to 3 San Diego business brokers or M&A advisors who work with businesses your size and type. Never more than 3.
- They reach out by phone, text, or email to ask a few questions about the business and your timeline.
- Ask for an NDA before you share financials. Serious brokers expect it. Also ask how they're paid and what a written valuation includes.
- You decide. Talking to a broker doesn't commit you to selling or listing.
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Questions
Are you a business broker?
No. We're a free matching service. We don't buy, sell, or appraise businesses. With your consent we pass your request to up to 3 local brokers or advisors.
Is this a formal valuation?
No. It's an educational estimate using common SDE multiples. A formal valuation or broker opinion looks at your actual financials, market, and comparable sales.
Is my information kept private?
We share your request only if you check the consent box, and only with up to 3 brokers or advisors. Don't put sensitive financial documents in the form.
What is SDE?
Seller's Discretionary Earnings: net profit plus the owner's salary plus legitimate add-backs like one-time expenses and personal costs run through the business.
Which areas do you cover?
San Diego County, including Escondido, Oceanside, Chula Vista, El Cajon, and Carlsbad.