| SUMMARY OF SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES (Policies) | 12 Months Ended |
| Dec. 31, 2020 |
| SUMMARY OF SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES | |
| Nature of Business | Nature of Business
Vertex, Inc. (“Vertex”) and its direct and indirect wholly owned subsidiaries (collectively, the “Company”) operate as solutions providers of state, local and value added tax calculation, compliance and analytics, offering software products which are sold through software license and software as a service (“cloud”) subscriptions. The Company also provides implementation and training services in connection with its software license and cloud subscriptions, transaction tax returns outsourcing, and other tax-related services. The Company sells to customers located throughout the United States of America (“U.S.”) and internationally. |
| Basis of Consolidation | Basis of Consolidation
The consolidated financial statements are prepared in accordance with accounting principles generally accepted in the U.S. (“U.S. GAAP”) and include the accounts of the Company. All intercompany transactions have been eliminated in consolidation.
On January 7, 2020, the Company acquired a 60% controlling interest in Systax Sistemas Fiscais LTDA (“Systax”), a provider of Brazilian transaction tax content and software. Systax is considered a Variable Interest Entity (“VIE”) and its accounts have been included in the consolidated financial statements from the acquisition date. Systax was determined to be a VIE as Vertex is the primary beneficiary of the equity interests in Systax and participates significantly in the variability in the fair value of Systax’s net assets. Although Vertex does not have full decision-making authority as it is shared with the minority interest owners, as the minority interest owners are considered a related party, Vertex is considered the most closely associated party to Systax and is required to consolidate. Systax’s assets may only be used to settle its own obligations and this will continue until such time as Vertex owns 100% of the VIE. As of December 31, 2020, the consolidated net assets of Systax, inclusive of goodwill and intangible assets recognized under purchase accounting, were $18,721. Vertex is at risk to the extent of its current 60% ownership of Systax, which risk will increase over time in proportion to increases in percentage ownership as Vertex exercises its future share purchase commitment through 2024. See Note 2. |
| Registration of Company Stock and Initial Public Offering | Registration of Company Stock and Initial Public Offering
On July 28, 2020, the Company filed its amended and restated certificate of incorporation with the Delaware Secretary of State to: (i) effect a three-for-one forward stock split (the “Stock Split”); (ii) establish a new capital structure for the Company (the “New Capital Structure”); and (iii) effect a share exchange (the “Share Exchange”) (collectively, the “Recapitalization”). The Stock Split resulted in each one share owned by a stockholder being exchanged for three shares of common stock, and the number of shares of the Company’s common stock issued and outstanding was increased proportionately based on the Stock Split. After the Stock Split, the Share Exchange occurred, resulting in stockholders of record exchanging their existing Class A and Class B common stock (“former Class A” and “former Class B”, respectively) for newly created shares of Class A and Class B common stock (“Class A” and “Class B”, respectively) issued in connection with the New Capital Structure. The effect of the Stock Split and the Share Exchange are recognized retrospectively in the consolidated financial statements.
The Company’s Registration Statement on Form S-1 with the Securities and Exchange Commission (“SEC”) was declared effective on July 28, 2020, resulting in the Class A shares being registered and available for trading on the NASDAQ exchange (the “Offering”).
On July 31, 2020, the Company received $423,024 in proceeds from the sale of 23,812 shares of Class A at a public offering price of $19.00 per share, net of underwriting fees, and used a portion of the proceeds to pay off $175,000 in outstanding debt. The net proceeds remaining after payment of Offering costs are being used for working capital and other corporate purposes. |
| Segments | Segments
The Company operates its business as one operating segment. Operating segments are defined as components of an enterprise about which separate financial information is evaluated regularly by the chief operating decision maker (“CODM”), the Company’s Chief Executive Officer, in deciding how to allocate resources and assess performance. The Company’s CODM allocates resources and assesses performance based upon discrete financial information at the consolidated level.
For the years ended December 31, 2020, 2019 and 2018 approximately 5%, 4% and 4%, respectively, of the Company’s revenues were generated outside of the U.S. As of December 31, 2020, $287 of the Company’s property and equipment assets were held outside of the U.S. As of December 31, 2019, none of the Company’s property and equipment assets were held outside the U.S. |
| Concentration of Credit Risk | Concentration of Credit Risk
Financial instruments that potentially subject the Company to credit risk consist principally of cash and cash equivalents, funds held for customers, accounts receivable and investment securities.
The Company maintains the majority of its cash and cash equivalent balances and funds held for customers in four banks. These amounts exceed federally insured ("FDIC") limits. The Company periodically evaluates the creditworthiness of the banks. The Company has not experienced any losses in these accounts and believes they are not exposed to significant credit risk on such accounts.
The Company does not require collateral from its customers. Allowances are maintained for subscription cancellations. Credit risk related to accounts receivable is limited due to the industry and geographic diversity within the Company's customer base. No single customer accounted for more than 10% of revenues for the years ended December 31, 2020, 2019 and 2018. |
| Fair Value Measurement | Fair Value Measurement
Fair value is defined as the price that would be received to sell an asset or paid to transfer a liability in an orderly transaction between market participants at a measurement date. A three-level fair value hierarchy (the “Fair Value Hierarchy”) prioritizes the inputs used to measure fair value. The Fair Value Hierarchy requires the Company to maximize the use of observable inputs and minimize the use of unobservable inputs. Classification in the Fair Value Hierarchy is based on the lowest of the following levels that is significant to the measurement:
Level 1 : Inputs are unadjusted quoted prices in active markets for identical assets or liabilities.
Level 2 : Inputs are quoted prices for similar assets and liabilities in active markets or quoted prices for identical or similar instruments in markets that are not active and model-derived valuations in which all significant inputs and significant value drivers are observable in active markets.
Level 3 : Inputs are unobservable inputs based on the Company’s assumptions and valuation techniques used to measure assets and liabilities at fair value. The inputs require significant management judgment or estimation.
The Company’s assessment of the significance of an input to a fair value measurement requires judgment, which may affect the determination of fair value and the measurement’s classification within the Fair Value Hierarchy. The Company may exercise considerable judgment when estimating fair value, particularly when evaluating what assumptions market participants would likely make. The use of different assumptions or estimation methodologies could have a material effect on the estimated fair values. |
| Use of Estimates | Use of Estimates
The preparation of consolidated financial statements requires management to make estimates and assumptions that affect the reported amounts of assets, liabilities, equity, revenues and expenses during the reporting period. Significant estimates used in preparing these consolidated financial statements include: (i) the estimated allowance for subscription cancellations, (ii) the reserve for self-insurance, (iii) assumptions related to achievement of technological feasibility for software developed for sale, (iv) product life cycles, (v) estimated useful lives and potential impairment of long-lived assets, intangible assets and goodwill, (vi) determination of the fair value of tangible and intangible assets acquired, liabilities assumed and consideration transferred in an acquisition, (vii) amortization period of material rights and deferred commissions (viii) valuation of the Company’s stock used to measure stock-based compensation awards, (ix) Black-Scholes-Merton option pricing model (“Black-Scholes model”) input assumptions used to determine the fair value of stock-based compensation awards, and (x) the potential outcome of future tax consequences of events that have been recognized in the consolidated financial statements or tax returns. Actual results may differ from these estimates. |
| Cash and Cash Equivalents | Cash and Cash Equivalents
The Company considers all highly liquid investments purchased with an initial maturity date of three months or less to be cash equivalents. Funds held as investments in money market funds are included within cash and cash equivalents.
In accordance with ASU No. 2016-18, Restricted Cash , the Company presents changes in restricted cash in the cash flow statement. |
| Funds Held for Customers | Funds Held for Customers
Funds held for customers in the consolidated balance sheets represents customer funds advanced for transaction tax returns outsourcing. Funds held for customers are restricted for the sole purpose of remitting such funds to satisfy obligations on behalf of such customers and are deposited at FDIC-insured institutions. Customer obligations are included in current liabilities in the consolidated balance sheets, as the obligations are expected to be settled within one year. |
| Property and Equipment | Property and Equipment
Property and equipment are stated at cost or fair value when acquired and presented net of accumulated depreciation. Normal maintenance and repairs are charged to expense, while major renewals and betterments are capitalized. Assets under capital leases are recorded at the lower of the present value of the minimum lease payments or the fair value of the assets and are depreciated over the shorter of the asset’s useful life or lease term.
Depreciation and amortization are computed straight-line over the estimated useful lives of the assets, as follows:
Leasehold improvements
1 - 12 years
Internal-use software developed
3 - 5 years
Computer software purchased
3 - 7 years
Equipment
3 - 10 years
Furniture and fixtures
7 - 10 years |
| Internal-use software | Internal-Use Software
The Company follows Accounting Standard Codification (“ASC”) 350‑40, Goodwill and Other, Internal-Use Software, to account for development costs incurred for the costs of computer software developed or obtained for internal use. ASC 350‑40 requires such costs to be capitalized once certain criteria are met. Capitalized internal-use software costs are primarily comprised of direct labor, related expenses and initial software licenses. ASC 350‑40 includes specific guidance on costs not to be capitalized, such as overhead, general and administrative and training costs. Internal-use software includes software utilized for cloud-based solutions as well as software for internal systems and tools. Costs are capitalized once the project is defined, funding is committed and it is confirmed the software will be used for its intended purpose. Capitalization of these costs concludes once the project is substantially complete and the software is ready for its intended purpose. Post-configuration training and maintenance costs are expensed as incurred. Internal-use software is included in internal-use software developed in property and equipment in the consolidated balance sheets once available for its intended use. Depreciation expense for internal-use software utilized for cloud-based customer solutions and for software for internal systems and tools is included in cost of revenues, software subscriptions and depreciation and amortization, respectively, in the consolidated statements of comprehensive income (loss). |
| Software developed for sale | Software Developed for Sale
The costs incurred for the development of computer software to be sold, leased, or otherwise marketed are capitalized in accordance with ASC 985‑20, Costs of Software to be Sold, Leased or Marketed , when technological feasibility has been established. Technological feasibility generally occurs when all planning, design, coding and testing activities are completed that are necessary to establish that the product can be produced to meet its design specifications, including functions, features and technical performance requirements. The establishment of technological feasibility is an ongoing assessment of judgment by management with respect to certain external factors, including, but not limited to, anticipated future revenues, estimated economic life and changes in technology. Capitalized software includes direct labor and related expenses for software development for new products and enhancements to existing products and acquired software.
Amortization of capitalized software development costs begins when the product is available for general release. Amortization is provided on a product-by-product basis using the straight-line method over periods between 3 to 5 years. Unamortized capitalized software development costs determined to be in excess of the net realizable value of the product are expensed immediately.
Capitalized software costs are subject to an ongoing assessment of recoverability based on anticipated future revenues and changes in software technologies at least annually at December 31, and whenever events or circumstances make it more likely than not that impairment may have occurred. In the event of impairment, unamortized capitalized software costs are compared to the net realizable value of the related product and the carrying value of the related assets are written down to the net realizable value to the extent the unamortized capitalized costs exceed such value. The net realizable value is the estimated future gross revenues from the related product reduced by the estimated future costs of completing and disposing of such product, including the costs of providing related maintenance and customer support. |
| Assessment of Long-Lived Assets | Assessment of Long-Lived Assets
The Company reviews the carrying value of long-lived assets, including internal-use software, for impairment whenever events or changes in circumstances indicate that the carrying amount of an asset may not be fully recoverable. Whenever such events or circumstances are present, an impairment loss equal to the excess of the asset carrying value over its fair value, if any, is recorded. |
| Business Combinations | Business Combinations
Upon acquisition of a company, the Company determines if the transaction is a business combination, which is accounted for using the acquisition method of accounting. Under the acquisition method, once control is obtained of a business, the assets acquired, liabilities assumed, consideration transferred and amounts attributed to noncontrolling interests, are recorded at fair value. The Company uses its best estimates and assumptions to assign fair value to the tangible and intangible assets acquired, liabilities assumed, consideration transferred and amounts attributed to noncontrolling interests at the acquisition date. One of the most significant estimates relates to the determination of the fair value of these assets and liabilities. The determination of the fair values is based on estimates and judgments made by management. The Company’s estimates of fair value are based upon assumptions it believes to be reasonable, but which are inherently uncertain and unpredictable. Measurement period adjustments to these values as of the acquisition date are reflected at the time identified, up through the conclusion of the measurement period, which is the time at which all information for determination of the values of assets acquired, liabilities assumed, consideration transferred and noncontrolling interests is received, and is not to exceed one year from the acquisition date (the “Measurement Period "). The Company may record adjustments to the fair value of these tangible and intangible assets acquired, liabilities assumed, consideration transferred and noncontrolling interests, with the corresponding offset to goodwill. Additionally, uncertain tax positions and tax-related valuation allowances are initially recorded in connection with a business combination as of the acquisition date. The Company continues to collect information and reevaluate these estimates and assumptions periodically and record any adjustments to preliminary estimates to goodwill, provided the Company is within the Measurement Period, with any adjustments to amortization of new or previously recorded identifiable intangibles being recorded to the consolidated statements of comprehensive income (loss) in the period in which they arise. In addition, if outside of the Measurement Period, any subsequent adjustments to the acquisition date fair values are recorded to the consolidated statements of comprehensive income (loss) in the period in which they arise. |
| Goodwill | Goodwill
Goodwill represents the excess of the purchase price over the fair value of net tangible and intangible assets acquired in a business combination. The Company evaluates goodwill for impairment annually at October 1 and whenever events or circumstances make it more likely than not that impairment may have occurred.
During the fourth quarter of 2020, the Company initiated a change in its method of applying an accounting principle and changed the date of its annual impairment test from December 31 to October 1. The change from our fiscal year end to such earlier date was preferrable to management in order to afford additional time to more effectively administer the assessment, including to facilitate interactions with third-party specialists, and in order to complete the year end closing process in a timelier fashion. Management has assessed that the change had no impact on the consolidated financial statements as of and for the year ended December 31, 2020. Had this change in accounting principle been applied in periods prior to 2020, it would have had no impact as the Company had no recognized goodwill.
The Company has determined that its business comprises one reporting unit. The Company has the option to first assess qualitative factors to determine whether events or circumstances indicate it is more likely than not that the fair value of a reporting unit is greater than its carrying amount, in which case a quantitative impairment test is not required.
As provided for by Accounting Standards Update (“ASU”) 2017-04, Simplifying the Test for Goodwill Impairment , the quantitative goodwill impairment test is performed by comparing the fair value of the reporting unit with its carrying amount, including goodwill. If the fair value of the reporting unit exceeds its carrying amount, goodwill is not impaired. An impairment loss is recognized for any excess of the carrying amount of the reporting unit’s goodwill over the fair value up to the amount of goodwill allocated to the reporting unit. Income tax effects from any tax-deductible goodwill on the carrying amount of the reporting unit are considered when measuring the goodwill impairment loss, if applicable. |
| Deferred Financing Costs | Deferred Financing Costs
The Company capitalizes costs related to obtaining, renewing or extending loan agreements and amortizes these costs on a straight-line basis, which approximates the effective interest method, over the life of the loan. Deferred financing costs related to outstanding borrowings under bank debt are reflected as a reduction of current portion of long-term debt and long-term debt, net of current portion. Deferred financing costs related to undrawn debt are reflected in other assets in the consolidated balance sheets in accordance with ASC 835‑30, Interest—Imputation of Interest . |
| Stock-Based Compensation | Stock-Based Compensation
On the effective date of the Offering, the Company adopted the 2020 Incentive Award Plan (the “2020 Plan”) and the 2020 Employee Stock Purchase Plan (the “ESPP”), which provides for the award of stock appreciation rights (“SARs”) stock options (“options”), restricted stock awards (“RSAs”), restricted stock units (“RSUs”), and participation in the ESPP (collectively, the "awards"), which are subject to guidance set forth in ASC 718, Compensation—Stock Compensation, ("ASC 718") for the award of equity-based instruments.
The provisions of ASC 718 require a company to measure the fair value of stock-based compensation as of the grant date of the award. Stock-based compensation expense reflects the cost of employee services received in exchange for the awards.
SARs are accounted for as liabilities under ASC 718 and, as such, the Company recognizes stock-based compensation expense by remeasuring the value of the SARs at the end of each reporting period and accruing the portion of the requisite service rendered at that date. Prior to July 2, 2020, the date management determined the Company was considered to have become a public entity, the Company measured SARs based on their intrinsic value which reflected the difference between the fair value of the Company’s former Class B common stock at the reporting date less the grant date fair value of the underlying shares as this was the value the SAR participant could derive from exercise of the SAR award. Prior to the Offering, the fair value of the Company’s common stock was determined periodically by the board of directors (the “Board”) with the assistance of management and a third-party valuation firm. Upon becoming a public entity, and up to the effective date of the Offering, management remeasured outstanding SARs using the fair value-based method under ASC 718. See Note 10 for discussion of the impact of the resulting change in accounting policy. Outstanding SARs are included in deferred compensation, current and deferred compensation, net of current portion in the consolidated balance sheets.
Stock-based compensation expense for new options issued under the 2020 Plan after the Offering is measured based on the grant date fair value of the award and is estimated using the Black-Scholes model. Compensation cost is recognized on a straight-line basis over the requisite service or performance period associated with the award.
Stock-based compensation expense for RSAs and RSUs is based on the fair value of the Company’s underlying common stock on the date of grant. Compensation cost is recognized on a straight-line basis over the requisite service or performance period associated with the award.
The ESPP permits participants to purchase Class A common stock through payroll deductions, up to a specified percentage of their eligible compensation or a lump sum contribution amount for the initial offering period (July 28 to November 30, 2020), subject to the plan’s maximum purchase provisions during the specified offering periods. The plan is a compensatory plan as it allows participants to purchase stock at a 15% discount from the lower of the fair value of the Class A common on the first or last day of the ESPP offering period (the “ESPP discount”). The ESPP is accounted for as an equity-classified award. Stock-based compensation expense for the ESPP is measured based on the fair value of the ESPP award at the start of the offering period. The fair value is comprised of the value of the ESPP discount and the value associated with the variability in the Class A common stock price during the offering period (the “Call/Put”), which is estimated using the Black-Scholes model. Compensation cost is recognized on a straight-line basis over the respective offering period.
The Company has elected to recognize award forfeitures as they occur. |
| Operating Leases and Deferred Rent | Operating Leases and Deferred Rent
Rent expense for operating leases is recognized on a straight-line basis over the period of the related lease. For lease agreements that include future specific rent increases, rent concessions and/or tenant improvement allowances, the difference between the rent payments and the straight-line rent expense is included in deferred rent liability in the consolidated balance sheets. |
| Self-insurance | Self-insurance
The Company is self-insured for the majority of its health insurance costs, including medical claims subject to certain stop-loss provisions. Management periodically reviews the adequacy of the Company’s stop-loss insurance coverage. The Company records an estimate of claims incurred but not reported, based on management’s judgment and historical experience. Self-insurance accruals are $1,766 and $1,473 at December 31, 2020 and 2019, respectively, and are reflected in accrued salaries and benefits in the consolidated balance sheets. Material differences may result in the amount and timing of insurance expense if actual experience differs significantly from management’s estimates. |
| Revenue Recognition | Revenue Recognition
Revenue from contracts with customers
On January 1, 2018, the Company adopted ASU 2014‑09, Revenue from Contracts with Customers , (“ASC 606”). Revenue is recognized upon transfer of control of promised products or services to customers in an amount that reflects the consideration expected to be received in exchange for those products or services. The Company enters into contracts that can include various combinations of products and services, which are generally capable of being distinct, and accounted for as separate performance obligations. Revenue is recognized net of allowance for subscription and non-renewal cancellations and any taxes collected from customers, which are subsequently remitted to governmental authorities.
Nature of goods and services
Licenses for on-premise software subscriptions provide the customer with a right to use the software as it exists when made available to the customer. Customers purchase a subscription to these licenses, which includes the related software and tax content updates (collectively “updates”) and product support. The updates and support, which are part of the subscription agreement, are essential to the continued utility of the software; therefore, the Company has determined the software and the related updates and support to be a single performance obligation. Accordingly, when on-premise software is licensed, the revenue associated with this combined performance obligation is recognized ratably over the license term as these subscriptions are provided for the duration of the license term. Revenue recognition begins on the later of the beginning of the subscription period or the date the software is made available to the customer to download. The Company’s on-premise software subscription prices in the initial subscription year are higher than standard renewal prices. The excess initial year price over the renewal price (“new sale premium”) is a material right that provides customers with the right to this reduced renewal price. The Company recognizes revenue associated with this material right over the estimated period of benefit to the customer, which is generally three years.
Cloud-based subscriptions allow customers to use Company-hosted software over the contract period without taking possession of the software. The cloud-based offerings also include related updates and support. Cloud-based contracts consistently provide a benefit to the customer during the subscription period; thus, the associated revenue is recognized ratably over the related subscription period. Revenue recognition begins on the later of the beginning of the subscription period or the date the customer is provided access to the cloud-based solutions.
Revenue from deliverable-based services is recognized as services are delivered. Revenue from fixed fee services is recognized as services are performed using the percentage of completion input method.
The Company has elected the "right to invoice" practical expedient for revenue related to services that are billed on an hourly basis, which enables revenue to be recognized as the services are performed.
The Company has determined that the methods applied to measuring its progress toward complete satisfaction of performance obligations recognized over time are a faithful depiction of the transfer of control of software subscriptions and services to customers.
Significant Judgments
Contracts with customers often include promises to transfer multiple products and services to a customer. Determining whether products and services are considered distinct performance obligations that should be accounted for separately versus together may require significant judgment. Identification of the amortization periods of material rights and contract costs requires significant judgement by management.
Disaggregation of revenue
The table reflects revenue by major source for the following periods:
For the Year Ended December 31,
2020
2019
2018
Sources of revenues:
Software subscriptions
$
316,763
$
275,629
$
235,663
Services
57,902
45,871
36,740
Total revenues
$
374,665
$
321,500
$
272,403
Contract balances
Timing of revenue recognition may differ from the timing of invoicing customers. A receivable is recorded in the consolidated balance sheets when customers are billed related to revenue to be collected and recognized for subscription agreements as there is an unconditional right to invoice and receive payment in the future related to these subscriptions. A receivable and related revenue may also be recorded in advance of billings to the extent services have been performed and the Company has a right under the contract to bill and collect for such performance. Subscription-based customers are generally invoiced annually at the beginning of each annual subscription period. Accounts receivable is presented net of an allowance for potentially uncollectible accounts and estimated cancellations of software license and cloud-based subscriptions (the “allowance”) of $8,592 and $7,515 at December 31, 2020 and 2019, respectively. The allowance is based on management’s assessment of uncollectible accounts on a specific identification basis, with the estimate of potential cancellations being determined based on management’s review of historical cancellation rates.
The beginning and ending balances of accounts receivable, net of allowance, are as follows:
For the Year Ended December 31,
2020
2019
Balance, beginning of period
$
70,367
$
62,235
Balance, end of period
77,159
70,367
Increase, net
$
6,792
$
8,132
A contract liability is recorded as deferred revenue on the consolidated balance sheets when customers are billed in advance of performance obligations being satisfied, and revenue is recognized after invoicing ratably over the subscription period or over the amortization period of material rights. Deferred revenue is reflected net of a related deferred allowance for subscription cancellations (the “deferred allowance”) of $6,432 and $5,614 at December 31, 2020 and 2019, respectively. The deferred allowance represents the portion of the allowance for subscription cancellations associated with deferred revenue.
The beginning and ending balances of and changes to the allowance and the deferred allowance are as follows:
For the Year Ended December 31,
2020
2019
2018
Balance
Net Change
Balance
Net Change
Balance
Net Change
Allowance balance, January 1
$
(7,515)
$
(5,527)
$
(4,320)
Allowance balance, December 31
(8,592)
(7,515)
(5,527)
Change in allowance
$
1,077
$
1,988
$
1,207
Deferred allowance balance, January 1
5,614
4,858
3,888
Deferred allowance balance, December 31
6,432
5,614
4,858
Change in deferred allowance
(818)
(756)
(970)
Net amount charged to revenues
$
259
$
1,232
$
237
The amount of revenue recognized during the years ended December 31, 2020, 2019 and 2018 that was included in the opening deferred revenue balance of the same fiscal year was approximately $191,745, $163,939, and $135,190, respectively. The portion of deferred revenue expected to be recognized in revenue beyond one year is included in deferred revenue, net of current portion in the consolidated balance sheets.
The table provides information about the balances of and changes to deferred revenue for the following periods:
As of December 31,
2020
2019
Balances:
Deferred revenue, current
$
207,560
$
191,745
Deferred revenue, non-current
14,702
14,046
Total deferred revenue
$
222,262
$
205,791
For the Year Ended December 31,
2020
2019
2018
Changes to deferred revenue:
Beginning balance
$
205,791
$
178,703
$
139,059
Additional amounts deferred
391,136
348,588
312,047
Revenues recognized
(374,665)
(321,500)
(272,403)
Ending balance
$
222,262
$
205,791
$
178,703
Deferred revenue at December 31, 2020 will be recognized as follows for all future years:
Year Ending December 31,
2021
$
207,560
2022
11,441
2023
3,261
Total
$
222,262
Contract costs
Deferred sales commissions earned by the Company’s sales force and certain sales incentive programs and vendor referral agreements are considered incremental and recoverable costs of obtaining a contract with a customer. An asset is recognized for these incremental contract costs and reflected as deferred commissions in the consolidated balance sheets. These contract costs are amortized on a straight-line basis over a period consistent with the transfer of the associated product and services to the customer, which is generally three years. Amortization of these costs are included in selling and marketing expense in the consolidated statements of comprehensive income (loss). The Company periodically reviews these contract assets to determine whether events or changes in circumstances have occurred that could impact the period of benefit of these assets. There were no impairment losses recorded for the periods presented.
The table provides information about the changes to contract cost balances as of and for the following periods:
For the Year Ended December 31,
2020
2019
2018
Changes to deferred commissions:
Beginning balance
$
11,196
$
8,830
$
5,676
Additions
8,291
10,140
8,691
Amortization
(7,744)
(7,774)
(5,537)
Ending balance
$
11,743
$
11,196
$
8,830
Payment terms
Payment terms and conditions vary by contract, although the Company’s terms generally include a requirement of payment within 30 days. In instances where the timing of revenue recognition differs from the timing of payment, the Company has determined that its contracts do not include a significant financing component. The primary purpose of invoicing terms is to provide customers with simplified and predictable ways of purchasing products and services, not to receive financing from customers or to provide customers with financing.
Cost of Revenues
Cost of revenues, software subscriptions include the direct cost to develop, host and distribute software products, the direct cost to provide customer support, and amortization of costs capitalized for software developed for sale, for internal-use software utilized for cloud-based subscriptions and for acquired intangible assets. Cost of revenues, services include the direct costs of implementation, training, transaction tax returns outsourcing and other tax-related services.
Reimbursable Costs
Reimbursable costs passed through and invoiced to customers of the Company are recorded as services revenues with the associated expenses recorded as cost of revenues, services in the consolidated statements of comprehensive income (loss). These amounts were $199, $1,107 and $902 for the years ended December 31, 2020, 2019 and 2018, respectively. |
| Research and Development | Research and Development
Research and development costs consist primarily of personnel and related expenses for research and development activities including salaries, benefits and other compensation. Research and development costs are expensed as incurred in accordance with ASC 730, Research and Development, and are included in the consolidated statements of comprehensive income (loss). |
| Advertising | Advertising
Advertising expense is recorded as incurred and is reflected in selling and marketing expense in the consolidated statements of comprehensive income (loss). Total advertising expense was $11,069, $11,921 and $8,956 for the years ended December 31, 2020, 2019 and 2018, respectively. |
| Foreign Currency | Foreign Currency
The Company transacts business in various foreign currencies. Management has concluded that the local country’s currency is the functional currency of its foreign operations. Consequently, operating activities outside the U.S. are translated into U.S. Dollars using average exchange rates, while assets and liabilities of operations outside the U.S. are translated into U.S. Dollars using exchange rates at the balance sheet date. The effects of foreign currency translation adjustments are included in stockholders' equity (deficit) as a component of accumulated other comprehensive loss in the consolidated balance sheets. Related periodic movements in exchange rates are included in other comprehensive income (loss) in the consolidated statements of comprehensive income (loss). Other operating expense (income), net in the consolidated statements of comprehensive income (loss) includes net foreign exchange transaction losses of $155, $84 and $121 for the years ended December 31, 2020, 2019 and 2018, respectively. |
| Income Taxes | Income Taxes
On July 27, 2020, the Company’s S-Corporation election (the “S Election”) was terminated by the Company’s stockholders in connection with the Offering. As a result, Vertex will now be taxed at the corporate level as a C-Corporation for U.S federal and state income tax purposes. In connection with the S Election termination, the Company entered into an agreement with the S-Corporation stockholders pursuant to which the Company has indemnified them for unpaid income tax liabilities and may be required to make future payments in material amounts to them attributable to incremental income taxes resulting from an adjustment to S-Corporation related taxable income that arises after the effective date of the S Election termination (the “Tax Sharing Agreement”). In addition, the Tax Sharing Agreement indemnifies the S-Corporation stockholders for any interest, penalties, losses, costs or expenses arising out of any claim under the agreement. Correspondingly, the S-Corporation stockholders have indemnified the Company with respect to unpaid tax liabilities (including interest and penalties) to the extent that such unpaid tax liabilities are attributable to a decrease in S-Corporation stockholders’ taxable income for any period and a corresponding increase in our taxable income for any period.
Prior to July 27, 2020, as Vertex was taxed as an S-Corporation for U.S. federal income tax purposes and for most states, net income or loss was allocated to the stockholders and was included on their individual income tax returns. Historically the Company distributed amounts to the stockholders to satisfy their tax liabilities resulting from allocated net income or loss. In certain states, Vertex was taxed at the corporate level. Accordingly, the income tax provision or benefit was based on taxable income allocated to these states. In certain foreign jurisdictions, Vertex subsidiaries were taxed at the corporate level. Similar to states, the income tax provision or benefit is based on taxable income sourced to these foreign jurisdictions.
Certain foreign subsidiaries in which we own greater than 50% of the equity by measure of vote or value are treated as controlled foreign companies (“CFCs”) for U.S. federal income tax purposes and most states under the IRS foreign tax regulations. The income and loss from these entities is reported on the Company’s U.S. federal and some state income tax returns when the foreign earnings are repatriated or deemed to be repatriated to the U.S. In conjunction with the termination of the S Election, certain direct and indirect wholly owned foreign subsidiaries that were previously treated as disregarded entities for U.S. federal income tax purposes and most states under the Internal Revenue Service (“IRS”) “check-the-box” regulations, “unchecked-the-box” to become regarded entities and as a result, became CFCs. Prior to these elections, the income and loss from these entities was reported on the Company’s U.S. federal and most state income tax returns in addition to being reported on a foreign jurisdiction tax return regardless of whether or not the earnings were repatriated.
The Company records deferred income taxes using the liability method. The Company recognizes deferred tax assets and liabilities for future tax consequences of events that have been previously recognized in the Company’s consolidated financial statements and tax returns. The measurement of deferred tax assets and liabilities is based on provisions of the enacted tax law. The effects of future changes in tax laws or rates are not anticipated. A valuation allowance is recorded when it is more likely than not that some or all of the deferred tax assets will not be realized.
The Company records uncertain tax positions in accordance with ASC 740, Income Taxes , on the basis of a two-step process whereby: (i) management determines whether it is more likely than not that the tax positions will be sustained based on the technical merits of the position, and (ii) for those tax positions that meet the more likely than not recognition threshold, management recognizes the largest amount of tax benefit that is greater than 50 percent likely to be realized upon ultimate settlement with the related tax authority. The impact as a result of the application of ASC 740 is reflected in the consolidated financial statements. The Company assesses its income tax positions and records tax benefits or expense based upon management’s evaluation of the facts, circumstances, and information available at the reporting date.
The Company recorded a $24,944 deferred tax asset during the year ended December 31, 2020 as a result of the conversion from an S-Corporation to a C-Corporation. The deferred tax asset is primarily due to future stock-based compensation deductions for tax purposes resulting from SARs that were previously issued by the Company, converted to options and immediately exercised upon the effective date of the Offering. The exercise of these options has resulted in a net operating loss for the C-Corporation short tax year beginning July 27, 2020 and ending December 31, 2020. Based on Management’s evaluation of the positive and negative evidence, it is more likely than not that the Company will realize these benefits on future U.S. tax returns. |
| Total Comprehensive Income (Loss) | Total Comprehensive Income (Loss)
Total comprehensive income (loss) consists of net income (loss) and other comprehensive income (loss). Other comprehensive income (loss) refers to revenues, expenses, gains and losses that under U.S. GAAP are recorded as elements of stockholders' equity (deficit) but are excluded from net income. Other comprehensive income (loss) is comprised of foreign currency translation adjustments and revaluations. |
| Earnings Per Share (“EPS”) | Earnings Per Share (“EPS”)
The Company has two classes of common stock outstanding and thus calculates EPS following the two-class method. This method allocates earnings for the respective periods between the two classes of common stock in proportion to the weighted average shares outstanding for each class of common stock as a percentage of total weighted average shares of both classes of common stock outstanding. Neither the Class A nor Class B common stock has any liquidity or dividend preferences and are both considered to be participating securities. Basic and diluted net income (loss) per share attributable to common stockholders is calculated using the treasury stock method. The basic net income (loss) per share attributable to Class A common stockholders includes RSAs, RSUs and ESPP shares once vesting or purchase contingencies are resolved and the related shares are deemed to be outstanding. The diluted net income (loss) per share attributable to Class A common stockholders is computed by giving effect to all potential dilutive common stock equivalents outstanding for the period. For purposes of this calculation, all options to purchase shares of Class A common stock, RSAs, and RSUs are considered common stock equivalents. Additionally, the portion of ESPP shares for which the Company has received payments but for which the related shares are not yet issued and outstanding are also considered common stock equivalents. In periods of net loss available to common stockholders, diluted calculations are equal to basic calculations because the inclusion of common stock equivalents would be anti-dilutive.
In accordance with ASC 260, Earnings Per Share , the historical EPS was retrospectively restated similar to the treatment of a stock split to reflect the Share Exchange for all periods presented prior to the Offering as management concluded that there was no economic value attributable to the exchange of shares in connection with the Recapitalization. Class A common stock issued in connection with the Offering are reflected in the weighted average share calculation from their issuance date.
Unaudited Pro Forma Income Taxes
A pro forma income tax provision has been disclosed in the accompanying consolidated financial statements as if the Company was a taxable corporation for the entirety of the year ended December 31, 2020. The Company has computed pro forma entity level income tax expense using an estimated effective tax rate of 25.5%, inclusive of all applicable U.S. federal, state, local and foreign income taxes.
Unaudited Pro Forma Earnings Per Share
The Company has presented pro forma earnings per share for the year ended December 31, 2020 to reflect the pro forma adjustment to income taxes resulting from the conversion to a C-Corporation effective July 27, 2020.
For the Year Ended
December 31, 2020
Class A common stock:
(unaudited)
Numerator:
Pro forma net loss attributable to all stockholders
$
(80,362)
Class A common stock as a percentage of total shares outstanding
8.44
%
Pro forma net loss attributable to Class A stockholders
$
(6,780)
Denominator:
Weighted average Class A common stock, basic and diluted
11,096
Pro forma net loss per Class A share, basic and diluted
$
(0.61)
For the Year Ended
December 31, 2020
Class B common stock:
(unaudited)
Numerator:
Pro forma net loss attributable to all stockholders
$
(80,362)
Class B common stock as a percentage of total shares outstanding
91.56
%
Pro forma net loss attributable to Class B stockholders
$
(73,582)
Denominator:
Weighted average Class B common stock, basic and diluted
120,415
Pro forma net loss per Class B share, basic and diluted
$
(0.61) |
| Supplemental Cash Flow Disclosures | Supplemental Cash Flow Disclosures
Supplemental cash flow disclosures are as follows for the respective periods:
For the Year Ended December 31,
2020
2019
2018
Cash paid for:
Interest
$
2,461
$
1,766
$
1,853
Income taxes
$
588
$
945
$
668
Non-cash investing and financing activities:
Distributions payable
$
—
$
13,183
$
10,892
Estimated distributions payable under Tax Sharing Agreement
$
2,700
$
—
$
—
Purchase Commitment Liability at acquisition date (Note 2)
$
12,592
$
—
$
—
Remeasurement of options for redeemable shares
$
51,833
$
2,763
$
1,027
Conversion of SARs in connection with the Offering
$
129,710
$
—
$
—
Exchange of Amended Options in connection with the Offering
$
69,177
$
—
$
—
Exercised options exchanged in lieu of income taxes
$
—
$
184
$
209
Equipment acquired through capital leases
$
646
$
1,904
$
— |
| Recently Issued Accounting Pronouncements | Recently Issued Accounting Pronouncements
As an "emerging growth company," the Jumpstart Our Business Startups Act (the “JOBS Act”) allows the Company to delay adoption of new or revised accounting pronouncements applicable to public companies until such pronouncements are made applicable to private companies. The Company has elected to delay adoption of certain new or revised accounting standards. As a result, the Company’s financial statements may not be comparable to the financial statements of issuers who are required to comply with the effective date for new or revised accounting standards that are applicable to public companies.
In February 2016, the FASB issued ASU No. 2016‑02, Leases . This standard amends several aspects of lease accounting, including requiring lessees to recognize operating leases with a term greater than one year on their balance sheet as a right-of-use asset, and a corresponding lease liability, measured at the present value of the future minimum lease payments. The standard is effective for public entities for fiscal years beginning after December 15, 2018, and after December 15, 2020 for all other companies, with early adoption permitted. The Company intends to adopt this standard effective January 1, 2021 using the modified retrospective transition method and therefore will not restate comparative periods. The Company plans to elect the "package of three" practical expedients permitted under the transition guidance, which among other things, allows a carry forward of the historical lease classification conclusions. The Company expects to recognize, among other adjustments, operating lease assets totaling approximately $24,000 and operating lease liabilities of approximately $33,000 on the consolidated balance sheet at January 1, 2021 as a result of the implementation of this standard. We do not expect this standard to materially impact our earnings upon adoption. As implementation of this standard results in adjustments to and reclassifications of assets and liabilities which are non-cash in nature, there will be no impact on the Company’s cash flows in connection with the adoption of this standard.
In June 2016, the FASB issued ASU 2016‑13, Financial Instruments—Credit Losses (Topic 326) : Measurement of Credit Losses on Financial Instruments , (“ASU 2016‑13”) which replaces the existing incurred loss impairment model with an expected credit loss model and requires financial assets, including trade receivables, measured at amortized cost to be presented at the net amount expected to be collected. ASU 2016‑13 is effective for annual periods, and interim periods within those years, beginning after December 15, 2019, for business entities that are public and meet the definition of an SEC filer (excluding smaller reporting companies), and after December 15, 2022 for all other entities. Adoption of this guidance requires using a modified retrospective approach through a cumulative-effect adjustment to retained earnings as of the effective date to align existing credit loss methodology with the new standard. The Company has assessed the impact of ASU 2016-13 and has determined that the adoption of this standard, effective January 1, 2021, will not have any impact on the Company’s consolidated financial statements.
In December 2019, the FASB issued ASU Update No. 2019‑12, Income Taxes (Topic 740): Simplifying the Accounting for Income Taxes , (“ASU 2019‑12”) which simplifies the accounting for income taxes. ASU 2019-12 removes certain exceptions for performing intraperiod tax allocations, recognizing deferred taxes for investments, and calculating income taxes in interim periods. The guidance also simplifies the accounting for franchise taxes, transactions that result in a step-up in the tax basis of goodwill, and the effects of enacted changes in tax laws or rates in interim periods. The guidance in ASU 2019‑12 is required for annual reporting periods, including interim periods within those annual periods, beginning after December 15, 2020, for business entities that are public, and after December 15, 2021, including interim periods within those annual periods for all other entities, with early adoption permitted. The Company has elected to adopt this guidance effective January 1, 2021. While the Company is continuing to assess the potential impacts of ASU 2019-12, it does not expect ASU 2019-12 to have a material effect on its financial statements. |
| Risks and Uncertainties | Risks and Uncertainties
In December 2019, a novel strain of coronavirus (“COVID-19”) appeared. In March 2020, the World Health Organization declared the outbreak of COVID-19 to be a pandemic. The COVID-19 pandemic is having widespread, rapidly evolving and unpredictable impacts on global society, economies, financial markets and business practices. To protect the health and well-being of Company employees and customers, substantial modifications were made to employee travel policies, our offices were closed and employees advised to work from home, and conferences and other marketing events were cancelled or shifted to virtual-only. The COVID-19 pandemic has impacted and may continue to adversely impact Company operations, including employees, customers and partners, and there is substantial uncertainty in the nature and degree of its continued effects over time.
The Company did not experience any significant reductions in sales, revenues or collections in the year ended December 31, 2020 as a result of COVID-19. The uncertainty caused by the COVID-19 pandemic could, however, impact Company billings to new customers beyond 2020 as the pandemic continues to generate economic uncertainty, and it may also negatively impact Company efforts to maintain or expand revenues from existing customers as they continue to evaluate certain long-term projects and budget constraints. In addition to the potential impact on sales, the Company may see delays in collections in 2021 as the pandemic continues to generate economic uncertainty. However, these delays are not expected to materially impact the business, and thus the Company has not recorded an additional allowance for doubtful accounts in connection with any delays. The Company believes it has ample liquidity and capital resources to continue to meet its operating needs and its ability to continue to service its debt or other financial obligations is not currently impaired.
The extent to which the COVID-19 pandemic impacts the business going forward will depend on numerous evolving factors that cannot reliably be predicted, including the duration and scope of the pandemic; governmental, business, and individuals’ actions in response to the pandemic; and the impact on economic activity, including the possibility of recession or financial market instability. These factors may adversely impact consumer, business and government spending on technology as well as customers’ ability to pay for Company products and services on an ongoing basis. This uncertainty also affects management’s accounting estimates and assumptions, which could result in greater variability in a variety of areas that depend on these estimates and assumptions, including estimated allowance for subscription cancellations, product life cycles and estimated useful lives and potential impairment of long-lived assets, intangible assets and goodwill. |
| Reclassifications | Reclassifications
Certain amounts in the prior period financial statements have been reclassified to conform to the presentation of the current period financial statements. These reclassifications had no effect on previously reported comprehensive income or loss |
