As technology advances and businesses increasingly rely on third-party services, the exposure to cybersecurity threats and compliance risks has grown substantially. In response, global regulatory bodies have placed significant emphasis on cybersecurity and compliance. The AICPA (American Institute of Certified Public Accountants) Attestation Standards now require CPA firms to venture into the realm of cybersecurity audits, aiding businesses in establishing robust internal controls for both financial and non-financial reporting within Service Organizations.

Here in this article, we delve into the reasons why a Service Organization requires the expertise of a CPA firm for SOC Attestation/ Report in Washington. We outline the role of a CPA firm within the SOC audit and attestation process for a Service Organization.

Who is a CPA (Certified Public Accountant) Auditor?


In accordance with the AICPA's attestation standards, a Certified Public Accountant (CPA) Auditor is a qualified professional capable of conducting audits and attestations for Service Organizations. These audits primarily focus on evaluating internal controls, encompassing both financial and non-financial reporting requirements based on either SOC 1 or SOC 2 criteria.


CPA Auditors meticulously examine and report on controls at Service Organizations across various domains. This includes controls impacting user entities' financial reporting, as well as those influencing the security, availability, processing integrity of systems, and the confidentiality and privacy of information processed for user entities' clients.


Necessity of CPA Firms for SOC Attestation in Washington


Under the AICPA SOC Audit Attestation standards, only an independent CPA (Certified Public Accountant) can conduct a SOC audit and attestation. These SOC auditors are overseen by the AICPA and must strictly adhere to the established professional standards.


Their approach encompasses meticulous planning, execution, and supervision of audit procedures, ensuring compliance with accepted auditing standards. This qualification enables CPA firms to assist Service Organizations in confronting the evolving challenges of cybersecurity and compliance through SOC examinations. The conducted audit and the subsequent attestation provide clients and stakeholders of Service Organizations with a source of credibility and trust.


Role of a CPA in SOC 1 or SOC 2 Audit Reports


As previously mentioned, SOC audits can solely be carried out by independent Certified Public Accountants (CPAs). Moreover, only a CPA firm specializing in auditing IT business process controls can complete SOC Audit Reports. These reports are attestation reports where CPAs offer opinions on the alignment of management's assertion with the necessary controls, as outlined by the SOC Attestation Standard's objectives.


The CPA firm's opinion may either be unqualified or qualified, depending on whether the Service Organization's controls meet the stipulated control objectives stated in their management assertion.

SOC 1 AND SOC 2 AUDIT REPORTS FEATURE FOUR PRIMARY SECTIONS THAT REPORT USERS SHOULD CONSIDER:

  • 1) Management's Assertion
  • 2) Description of Services
  • 3) Auditor's Opinion
  • 4) Results of Testing

The most critical juncture of the report lies in the auditor's opinion on Management's Assertion, which includes the description of services and audit results. Only a qualified and independent CPA firm in Washington can offer an opinion in this regard.


The CPA must strictly adhere to the updated SOC audit and attestation standards set by the AICPA. Additionally, the performing CPA or auditor must possess the technical expertise, training, and certification required to execute such audits. Given that SOC 2 adheres to highly technical standards, it's advisable for a qualified CPA to be supplemented with additional certifications such as CISA, CISSP, etc. Alternatively, the auditor should ideally be supported by an information security expert for the audit and report drafting.


Engaging with firms or auditors lacking the CPA qualification will invalidate the report, potentially leading to reporting to AICPA and potential license revocation for the CPA. Nonetheless, a CPA firm can involve non-CPA professionals with relevant information technology and security skills in preparing for a SOC audit. However, the final report must originate exclusively from a qualified CPA.


SOC 2 Attestation, Reporting & CPA Auditors In Philadelphia

In Washington, businesses aiming to fortify their data security and ensure regulatory compliance can benefit from specialized SOC 2 Audit and Compliance Services provided by TopCertifier. These services encompass meticulous audits, customized strategies for control enhancement, and alignment with the globally recognized Service Organization Control 2 (SOC 2) framework. TopCertifier’s experienced team offers industry-specific insights, guiding organizations toward robust security practices, enhanced data integrity, and alignment with international standards. By collaborating with TopCertifier for SOC 2 audits and Compliance in Washington, businesses can establish themselves as trustworthy partners for their clients, fostering confidence in their data management practices.

Ready to take the next step towards Certification Excellence?

Contact us today to embark on your journey with a trusted and experienced certification partner. Unlock new opportunities and elevate your organization's reputation with our comprehensive certification services. Let's work together to achieve your certification goals.

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