SOC 2 Audit and Compliance Services Frequently Asked Questions
What should a first-time SOC 2 project address before testing begins?
Before testing, a first-time project should review current policies, systems, and controls against the Trust Services Criteria, identify gaps, document internal controls, and develop a detailed system description. This readiness process often takes several months, so it should be completed before committing to an aggressive audit timeline.
How should a service organization decide whether it needs SOC 1, SOC 2, or SOC 3?
SOC 1 addresses controls that affect user entities’ financial reporting. SOC 2 addresses security, availability, processing integrity, confidentiality, or privacy. SOC 3 uses the same Trust Services Criteria as SOC 2 but provides a higher-level report for broader distribution, and the organization must complete SOC 2 before adding SOC 3.
What evidence is needed for a SOC Type 2 report to support operating effectiveness?
A Type 2 examination assesses control design and operating effectiveness over a period, typically six to twelve months. Testing should cover samples throughout that period and combine inquiry with observation, inspection, and reperformance. A proposal that relies mainly on inquiry or does not test across the period may not provide the expected evidence of consistent operation.
What should a company confirm when selecting a SOC auditor?
Only licensed and registered CPA firms can issue SOC 1, SOC 2, and SOC 3 reports. A prospective provider should also be evaluated for attestation experience, quality and peer review standing, a realistic readiness and audit timeline, rigorous testing methods, and willingness to develop control and system descriptions that reflect the actual environment rather than generic language.
How should a customer use a vendor’s SOC report after receiving it?
Start by confirming that the report covers the service or system used and the relevant period. Review the auditor’s opinion, complementary user entity controls, tests performed, exceptions, and remediation. Any unresolved concerns should be followed up with the vendor, and the report should be incorporated into ongoing third-party risk management and vendor oversight.