How Much Does Software Escrow Cost?
Software escrow is an essential safeguard for businesses relying on third-party software. The cost of software escrow depends on multiple factors, including the complexity of your software, the services you need, and the level of verification required. We'll break down software escrow pricing, helping you understand how much software escrow costs, what to expect, and how to budget effectively for software escrow services.
Factors Influencing Software Escrow Costs
Several components contribute to the overall software escrow cost, including initial setup, maintenance, verification, and additional services. Below is a breakdown of the primary components that determine software escrow pricing:
✓ Initial Setup Fees
The setup fee covers essential items including drafting a legal agreement, escrow account creation, and the initial deposit of source code and documentation. Software escrow costs for setup typically range from $1,500 to $5,000, depending on agreement complexity.
✓ Annual Maintenance Fees
Annual fees cover secure storage, periodic updates and validation, and compliance monitoring of the deposited materials. Most businesses pay $2,500 to $10,000 per year, based on service level and protection needs.
✓ Source Code Verification Fees
Verifying the source code ensures that it is functional and can be used if necessary. The cost of source code escrow verification varies based on the depth of the tests conducted, typically ranging from $3,000 to $15,000 for technical assessments, build tests, and functional checks.
✓ Additional Service Costs
Additional services like SaaS Escrow, IP Escrow, and SAST Escrow enhance the protection of your software. Depending on the level of service, these services can cost between $1,500 and $7,000.