SOC 1

SOC 1 Examinations

System and Organization Controls (SOC) 1 is a report designed to assess the internal controls of a service organization that affect the financial reporting of its clients. The purpose of a SOC 1 report is to ensure that financial information is handled securely and accurately by third-party service providers.

Types of SOC 1 Reports

Type I – Evaluates the design and implementation of controls at a specific point in time.

Type II – Assesses the effectiveness of these controls over a defined period (typically 6-12 months).

SOC 1 Compliance Process

  • Scoping & Planning

    Identifying key financial systems and control objectives.

  • Control Assessment

    Reviewing and documenting existing controls.

  • Testing

    Evaluating the effectiveness of controls (Type I for design, Type II for operation).

  • Report Issuance

    Providing a final report with findings and recommendations.

Destinations of SOC 1 Reports

User Organizations: Businesses that outsource financial operations to service providers.

External Auditors: To evaluate financial reporting controls in compliance with regulations.

Regulatory Bodies: Agencies such as the SEC or PCAOB that oversee financial compliance.

Service Organization Management: To ensure internal control effectiveness and improvements.