FAQ: How should we compare SOC 2 audit proposals beyond price?

Compare the same scope, report type, period, and delivery assumptions first. Then ask about the engagement team's experience with your service, partner involvement, evidence requests, communication cadence, and how scope changes are priced. Verify the firm and relevant licensing, and ask about peer review where applicable. Request a clear list of exclusions, including readiness work or extra testing that costs more. Ask how exceptions are discussed before report issuance. The cheapest proposal may fit your needs, but a low fee paired with vague testing, unclear staffing, or an unexplained delivery guarantee deserves more questions.

Related: SOC 2 cost considerations; SOC 2 audit and compliance hub.

Further reading: AICPA SOC resources.

Additional FAQs

Can our SOC 2 auditor also help us prepare?

Some preparation assistance may be possible, but independence needs to be evaluated for the actual services and relationships. Ask the CPA firm to explain the permitted scope of help and

Which SOC 2 tasks should we automate first?

Start with repetitive collection or reminders where the inputs and expected result are well understood. Examples include scheduling evidence requests, exporting an approved report, or flagging an overdue review. Document

How do we decide which trust services categories belong in our SOC 2?

Begin with what you promise customers and how the service could fail to meet those promises. Security is the foundation; discuss additional categories with the auditor based on the system,

When are we ready to start a SOC 2 Type 2 reporting period?

Discuss the start date with the auditor after the in-scope controls are implemented and evidence collection is working. Check actual operation: can you retrieve an access approval, a completed review,

Can we scope SOC 2 to one product rather than the whole company?

Often, yes, provided the scope accurately describes the service and the systems supporting it. Start with the customer-facing product, then trace its data, infrastructure, people, and supporting processes. Shared identity

What is a SOC 2?

The System and Organization Controls 2 Report, formally known as a Service Organization Controls Report as of the most recent update to the SSAE 18 audit standard. A SOC 2 report

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