Discounted Clerk Pro features
Clerk for Startups
- Startups up to 1 year after launch with up to $5M in venture funding; optional partner (e.g. YC) selection
Clerk Startup Credits: Program Explained
Startups within a year of launch and with up to $5M raised can apply for discounted Clerk Pro.
Last verified October 29, 2026
Quick answer
Available programs
Startups within a year of launch and with up to $5M raised can apply for discounted Clerk Pro.
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Best for
Newly launched SaaS appsYC companies needing authTeams migrating from another auth provider
Do you qualify for Clerk?
You likely qualify if
- Publicly launched within the last year
- Raised up to $5M in venture funding
- Signed in to Clerk with an existing application
- YC track: in the current YC batch (F26) or a YC alumnus
You won't qualify if
- Launched more than a year ago
- Raised more than $5M (YC offer also expires once you raise $5M)
- No Clerk application on your account
Common rejection reasons
- More than one year past public launch
- Personal email or thin/placeholder website (third-party reported)
How to apply for Clerk
- Check eligibility: launched <1 year ago, <=$5M raised (or YC)
- Sign in to Clerk and make sure your account has an application
- Submit the form at clerk.com/startups (or clerk.com/startups/yc with your YC batch)
- Discount applies to your account on approval; YC discount period starts at approval
Stacks well with
Founders who claim Clerk often pair it with these to build a bigger credit stack.
Frequently asked questions
How much does Clerk give startups?
Discounted Clerk Pro features (SMS codes, RBAC, device tracking, etc.); discount amount not published. Startups within a year of launch and with up to $5M raised can apply for discounted Clerk Pro.
Does Clerk take equity?
No. These are non-dilutive credits and perks; you do not give up equity.
Who qualifies for Clerk?
Publicly launched within the last year. Raised up to $5M in venture funding. Signed in to Clerk with an existing application.
Do I need a referral?
No referral is needed for the main program.
How do I apply for Clerk?
1) Check eligibility: launched <1 year ago, <=$5M raised (or YC) 2) Sign in to Clerk and make sure your account has an application 3) Submit the form at clerk.com/startups (or clerk.com/startups/yc with your YC batch) 4) Discount applies to your account on approval; YC discount period starts at approval
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