SOC 2 Audit Firm Comparison: Leading Providers for Trust, Speed, and ROI in 2025
Picking a SOC 2 audit firm isn’t just a checkbox—it can shape whether your compliance journey is quick and painless or a drawn-out headache. There are a ton of audit companies out there, all claiming to be the best, so it’s no wonder the search feels overwhelming when you’re chasing trust, speed, and ROI.
The smartest organizations look at three things: how well an auditor earns client trust, how fast they deliver without cutting corners, and whether their work actually moves the needle for your business. Understanding how each firm handles service, audit depth, and value for money will help you find a partner that really fits your business and timeline.
1. Hancock Askew & Co. - known for superior client service and SOC 2 expertise
Hancock Askew & Co. is a trusted pick for businesses looking for SOC 2 auditors. Their reputation for high service standards really stands out in the audit world.
They offer SOC 2 audits to make sure your non-financial controls meet the Trust Service Principles. Their team’s goal is to help you keep your security and compliance in check.
They’ve been at this since 1910, so you’re getting a century’s worth of audit know-how. That kind of experience is hard to fake.
Your SOC 2 audit is handled by over 250 professionals who actually get the ins and outs of these examinations. They offer broad risk assurance, not just the basics.
You can get SOC 1, SOC 2, or SOC 3 audits depending on what you need. Flexibility is built in.
Clients range from startups to big public companies, so they’re used to different levels of complexity. That’s a good sign if your business is growing or changing.
Top U.S. firms like Hancock Askew & Co. go beyond the checklist—they help boost your security and business processes. You’re not just another file on their desk.
They mix technical skills with a strong client-first attitude. Their commitment to quality makes the SOC 2 process less stressful and more valuable for your company.
2. Eden Data - recognized for fast and reliable SOC 2 audits
Eden Data is a go-to for cybersecurity and compliance frameworks in the U.S. They bring in a team of ex-Big 4 cybersecurity pros to run your audit from start to finish.
What’s different? They use a subscription model for ongoing cybersecurity support. So, you’re not just getting a one-off audit, but long-term backup.
They’ve been Drata’s Partner of the Year for three years running—2023, 2024, and 2025. Clearly, they know compliance automation inside and out.
Their service includes automated software and regular expert check-ins. You’ll get your SOC 2 faster, from readiness through reporting.
Eden Data claims you’ll be audit-ready three times quicker on platforms like Drata and Vanta. That means less waiting, more doing.
They handle evidence collection, interviews, and report reviews. You skip the usual headaches of dealing with auditors directly.
Eden Data acts as your cybersecurity team, even if you’re prepping for an IPO. Their support grows with you.
Industry sources keep Eden Data on their “best of” lists for SOC 2 audits. So, you’re not gambling on an unknown.
Their AWS partner status is a nice bonus. You can even get their services through the AWS Marketplace, making procurement smoother.
3. Linford & Company LLP - specializes in detailed SOC 2 audit assessments
Linford & Company LLP is a CPA firm in Denver, focused on cybersecurity and compliance. The founders are ex-Big Four auditors and security experts.
You’ll be working with auditors who have at least a decade of experience. That’s not something you see everywhere.
They do both Type I and Type II SOC 2 audits. All five Trust Services Criteria—security, availability, processing integrity, confidentiality, and privacy—are covered.
Linford specializes in SOC 2 audits, plus frameworks like HIPAA, FedRAMP, and HITRUST. Their team knows both AICPA and NIST standards.
You can count on a thorough assessment. Their approach digs deep into your controls and risk management.
Clients range from mom-and-pop shops to Fortune 500s. Their global experience means they get different rules and business cultures.
Linford’s auditors use tried-and-true methods for reporting. They aim for top-notch assurance without overcharging.
You get both audit and security expertise in one place. This helps make sure your SOC 2 audit is both technically solid and compliant.
They’re used to modern IT environments, including cloud systems. Their auditors can handle the complexity that comes with new tech.
4. Insight Assurance LLC - combines credibility with strong communication
Insight Assurance brings heavyweight credentials to the table. The founders are former Big 4 folks from EY who branched out on their own.
You’re dealing with a licensed CPA firm that’s also a PCI Qualified Security Assessor and an ISO 27001 Certification Body. That’s a rare triple threat in this space.
They’ve audited over 500 organizations across multiple frameworks. Their experience covers SOC 2, PCI DSS, ISO 27001, and HIPAA.
Communication is a big deal for them. They walk you through readiness, audits, and reporting so you’re never lost in the process.
Insight Assurance prefers a partnership vibe over a transactional one. They help you spot control gaps and manage risk before things go sideways.
Prep support starts before the audit kicks off. Their team makes sure you know what’s coming and have your docs lined up.
They emphasize quality over speed. They believe strong audit quality is the only way to get credible SOC 2 reports.
Both Type I and Type II SOC 2 exams are on offer. You pick what fits your business best.
Their reports are clear and actionable. You get findings you can actually use to improve your security, not just meet compliance for the sake of it.
Insight Assurance sticks around after the audit. They’ll help you keep up with compliance and future audit prep.
5. Secureframe - streamlines SOC 2 audit preparation and management
Secureframe is all about making SOC 2 compliance faster and way less painful. They say you can get SOC 2 compliant in weeks instead of slogging through months.
Evidence collection is automated and always running in the background. No more scrambling for paperwork at the last minute.
You can handle SOC 2, ISO 27001, and HIPAA all in one place. One dashboard, less chaos.
Secureframe keeps tabs on your security policies in real time. It logs changes and updates your compliance status automatically.
They have tools to prep for audits so you know what needs fixing before the auditor shows up.
Through their platform, you can access a network of vetted SOC 2 auditors. That means finding a match for your needs and budget is a little less of a guessing game.
The system pulls together reports showing where you’re falling short. You get actionable steps to patch things up before they become real issues.
Secureframe’s step-by-step audit checklists make the process less intimidating. Handy if you’re new to compliance or just want to stay organized.
The platform plugs right into your existing tools. Less manual work, fewer mistakes, and smoother compliance tracking overall.
You’ll get ongoing support all the way through the SOC 2 audit. Their team helps you decode requirements and get your paperwork in order.
6. A-LIGN - provides tailored SOC 2 solutions focused on ROI
A-LIGN is a technology-enabled security and compliance partner trusted by over 2,500 organizations worldwide. You get experienced auditors plus advanced audit management tech—pretty hard to beat.
The company takes a single-provider approach to compliance. That means you can handle multiple certifications with just one firm, instead of juggling a bunch of vendors.
A-LIGN puts a real focus on ROI, streamlining the audit process. Their SOC 2 compliance solutions blend automated software with dedicated audit teams, so your compliance moves along faster.
You’ll have regular check-ins with SOC 2 experts throughout your audit. This keeps things moving and helps you avoid annoying delays.
Their partnership with Vanta is worth mentioning. You get automated compliance monitoring and professional audit services all in one tidy package.
A-LIGN’s team includes licensed CPAs who actually get both the technical and business sides. Your audit team comes with deep expertise in cybersecurity frameworks and regulatory standards.
Their tech platform lets you track audit progress and manage docs without the usual chaos. You can see your compliance status in real time and spot issues before they become real headaches.
Clients have shared success stories about getting SOC 2 compliant and boosting their overall security. You’ll get the certification—and a stronger risk management game.
A-LIGN’s pricing lines up with your business outcomes, not just billable hours. You’re paying for results and long-term compliance, not just a one-off audit.
They stick around after the initial audit, too. You’ll have access to compliance experts who help you keep your SOC 2 status and get ready for the next round.
Their clients range from startups to big enterprises in all sorts of industries. You’ll work with auditors who actually understand your business and its unique compliance headaches.
7. KPMG SOC 2 Services - global reach with deep audit knowledge
KPMG is one of the Big Four accounting firms offering SOC 2 audits all over the world. Their global network means you get seasoned auditors, wherever you are.
The firm is a global leader in Service Organization Control (SOC) reporting. Their IT attestation teams include accredited partners and staff across different countries.
You’ll work with audit teams that use technology to boost efficiency and quality. This helps keep your time and resources from getting totally drained during the audit.
KPMG’s SOC 2 services cover all the standard trust service criteria. They check security, availability, processing integrity, confidentiality, and privacy controls in your organization.
Their audit approach is all about agility and integrity. You’ll work with people who actually get complex business and tech environments.
KPMG’s done SOC 2 Type II audits for all sorts of organizations. For example, they’ve run nine-month audits covering security and availability for client systems—not for the faint of heart.
Their global reach means they can handle audits in multiple locations without much fuss. If your business is spread out, that’s a big plus.
Their technology assurance goes beyond basic compliance. You’ll get detailed reports that help build confidence with customers and stakeholders.
KPMG’s depth comes from years in the field, across industries. They know how different business models change up SOC 2 requirements.
8. Grant Thornton - balances speed and thoroughness in audit delivery
Grant Thornton uses detailed planning and tech to make audits more efficient. This lets them deliver timely services without cutting corners.
The firm customizes their audit approach for every client. They take time to understand your business and its risks before diving in.
They focus on what actually matters during audits. Data analytics and business tools keep the process moving and less painful.
Their SOC 2 assurance service gives you an independent review of controls for security, availability, and privacy. It’s a solid way to show your commitment to data protection.
Responding to security audit requests is easier with their SOC reports. They can be SOC 1, SOC 2, or a custom attestation, depending on what you need.
Each Grant Thornton member firm sticks to a consistent approach, no matter where you are. So you can expect the same quality, worldwide.
The firm doesn’t just check boxes. They deliver strategies that boost efficiency and governance while they’re at it.
Their advisory team helps you streamline your controls and processes. This protects your brand’s reputation and builds trust with your customers.
Grant Thornton also provides observations and insights into your business performance. They make sure your financials meet professional standards—and give you something practical to work with.
9. BDO USA - known for rigorous control evaluations and client trust
BDO USA is the sixth-largest accounting firm in the country, pulling in over $2.89 billion in revenue for 2024. With 70+ offices and 12,000 employees, they serve clients across pretty much every industry.
Your SOC 2 audit with BDO is all about comprehensive control assessments that put transparency and trust first. Their approach leans into proactive risk mitigation and detailed control reviews.
BDO offers both SOC 2 Type 1 and Type 2 reports that cover all five Trust Services Criteria. That’s security, availability, processing integrity, confidentiality, and privacy—everything you need for SOC 2.
They also provide SOC 2+ services for clients who need more than just the basics. That means extra frameworks like GDPR, ISO 27001, and other regulatory standards in the mix.
Your audit team benefits from BDO’s spot as the US member of BDO International, the fifth-largest accounting network globally. That opens the door to international expertise and tried-and-true methods.
BDO’s consulting arm offers advisory services like risk management and compliance support. These services help you keep improving controls after the audit’s done.
BDO became an employee stock ownership plan company in 2023, creating the largest ESOP in accounting. This structure ties employee interests to client service and long-term relationships.
Your SOC 2 audit gets support from BDO’s specialized information systems audit teams. These pros know their way around cloud, hybrid, and on-prem systems—and can evaluate controls wherever they live.
Key Metrics: Evaluating Trust, Speed, and ROI
Trust in SOC 2 audits really comes down to auditor credibility and whether reports get accepted. Timeline efficiency? That’s a mix of auditor experience and how ready your organization is. ROI for SOC 2 compliance often hits around 5% of annual revenue, thanks to risk reduction and business growth.
Defining Trust in SOC 2 Audits
Trust starts with your auditor’s credentials and their rep in the market. Look for AICPA certification and a track record in your industry.
Client acceptance rates are a big deal. Ask auditors what percentage of their reports get accepted by major cloud providers and enterprise clients—95% or higher is what you want to hear.
Key trust indicators include:
- Years of SOC 2 audit experience
- Industry-specific expertise
- Client retention rates above 85%
- Clear communication throughout the process
Take a look at sample reports from auditors you’re considering. The good ones show detailed testing and clear findings. If it’s all generic language and vague evidence, that’s a red flag.
Check references from companies like yours. Ask about report rejections, audit delays, and whether post-audit support was actually helpful.
Measuring Audit Efficiency and Timelines
SOC 2 audit timelines depend on your organization’s size and how prepped you are. First-time Type I audits usually take 8-12 weeks. Type II? Plan on at least 12-16 weeks.
Timeline factors you control:
- How complete your documentation is before kickoff
- Staff availability for interviews
- How organized your control evidence is
- How fast you respond to auditor questions
Good auditors speed things up with clear checklists and standardized tests. Consistent communication helps, too.
Compare audit firms by their efficiency. Ask about average completion rates and what tends to slow things down. The best firms finish 80% of audits on schedule.
Request a project timeline before you commit. The right auditor will give you a week-by-week breakdown with milestones and deliverables.
Calculating ROI in SOC 2 Compliance Initiatives
SOC 2 ROI includes both direct revenue and risk reduction. Many organizations see about 5% of annual revenue in new opportunities after certification.
Direct revenue benefits:
- Faster enterprise sales
- Access to security-focused markets
- Ability to charge more for compliant services
- Lower customer churn
Reducing risk is huge, too. The average data breach costs $4.45 million, so a strong SOC 2 program really pays off in the long run.
Cost considerations include:
- Initial audit fees ($15,000-$50,000)
- Internal prep work
- Annual renewals
- Keeping up with compliance over time
Figure out your ROI by weighing new revenue against risk reduction and costs. Most companies see a positive return within the first year of getting certified.
Selecting the Right SOC 2 Audit Partner
Your audit partner can make or break your compliance journey, timeline, and stakeholder trust. Make sure you check their credentials, dig into their audit approach, and see what kind of ongoing support they actually offer.
Assessing Firm Credentials and Experience
Start by checking your potential auditor’s AICPA license. Make sure they specialize in SOC 2.
Licensed CPAs have to keep up with ongoing education and stick to professional standards. Not all do, so it’s worth confirming.
Look for firms that have at least three years of SOC 2 experience. Experienced auditors just get the Trust Services Criteria and can handle tricky compliance stuff without too much drama.
Ask if they’ve worked in your industry before. SaaS companies face different risks than, say, healthcare groups.
Your auditor should really get what makes your sector unique—especially when it comes to control challenges.
Key credentials to verify:
- AICPA membership and good standing
- SOC 2 audit specialization
- Industry experience in your sector
- Client references from similar companies
Get references from clients that are about your size. Small firms sometimes can’t handle big audits, and huge firms might not pay much attention to smaller clients.
Check the lead auditor’s credentials, not just the firm’s. Junior staff usually handle the grunt work, but the lead auditor calls the important shots.
Understanding Audit Methodologies
Your auditor’s methodology can really change the timeline, cost, and even the quality of your audit.
Ask how they test controls and what sample sizes they use. Don’t be shy about specifics.
Some firms use risk-based sampling. Others try to test every control, every month. Risk-based methods might save money, but sometimes they miss things.
Common methodology differences:
- Sample size: 25 items vs. full population testing
- Testing frequency: Quarterly vs. monthly control reviews
- Documentation requirements: Basic vs. detailed evidence requests
- Remediation support: Identification only vs. guidance provided
Ask for their usual timeline and when you’ll see deliverables. Most Type II audits run 8–12 weeks from kickoff to the final report, but you know how these things go.
See what tech tools they use. Modern auditors should have secure portals for sharing docs and tracking progress. If they’re still relying on email attachments, that’s a red flag.
Get a feel for their communication style. Weekly status calls help keep things moving, but if they only check in monthly, you might be in for some surprises at the end.
Client Support and Post-Audit Services
Your relationship with the audit firm doesn’t just end when you get the report. Good auditors actually help you keep up with compliance and offer guidance along the way.
It’s smart to ask about remediation support during the audit. Some firms will just point out issues, but others actually help you patch up control gaps fast.
Post-audit services to consider:
- Annual compliance monitoring
- Control design assistance
- Staff training on SOC 2 requirements
- Quarterly readiness assessments
Find out if they’re around to answer questions once the audit’s done. You’ll probably need a bit of help keeping controls in place or figuring out what to do for next year’s audit.
Definitely ask about pricing for extra services early on. Some firms bundle things, while others bill you for every little question.
See if you’ll get a dedicated account manager. Having a familiar contact who really knows your business makes everything smoother and way less stressful.
Frequently Asked Questions
Check whether your internal policies, security controls, and documentation are already in place. A readiness assessment from a consultant or pre-audit checklist can help spot gaps before you commit.
Type I reviews your controls at a single point in time, while Type II tests how well they operate over a period (usually 6–12 months). Type II carries more weight with customers.
Yes—especially SaaS and cloud providers. Even small companies often need SOC 2 to close enterprise deals or meet investor and partner requirements.
Costs vary by firm and scope, but most companies spend between $15K–$50K for the audit itself, plus internal costs for preparation and ongoing compliance.
No. Tools like Drata, Vanta, and Secureframe streamline evidence collection and monitoring, but an accredited CPA firm must still conduct and sign off on the audit.
Typically 3–6 months of prep before the audit, then 8–16 weeks for the audit itself. Mature companies with controls already in place may move faster.
Yes—especially larger enterprises. Many procurement teams won’t sign contracts without reviewing your SOC 2 report to confirm trust and security.
Often, yes. Many audit firms also cover other frameworks, which saves time and reduces duplication in evidence gathering.
You’ll receive a report with observations. Some firms help remediate issues, while others just highlight them. It’s best to ask about remediation support upfront.
SOC 2 reports are valid for 12 months. Most clients expect you to maintain compliance annually with fresh audits.
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