SOC 2 Type I cost breakdown
Interactive estimators
Cost ranges
| Item | Range | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Auditor fees (Type I) | $8K–$25K | Common band for SMB/startup Security-only point-in-time examinations; multi-category or complex scopes run higher |
| Automation platform (optional) | $7K–$30K/year | Same tooling often used for Type II prep; Type I alone rarely justifies a full platform year |
| Internal engineering time | Significant but shorter window | Design/implementation evidence at a point in time — less continuous sampling than Type II |
| Remediation before fieldwork | $0–$20K+ | Gap closure still required; rushing a Type I with broken IAM is wasted spend |
What drives variance
Type I is usually cheaper than Type II because operating-effectiveness testing over a period is omitted. Buyers increasingly ask for Type II, so treat Type I as an interim artifact unless your pipeline only requires design suitability. Boutique firms may price below global firms. Educational composites accessed July 2026 — not a quote. Use /tools/soc-2-cost-calculator for a scoped heuristic and /compare/soc-2-type-1-vs-type-2 for sequencing.
Sources & methodology
- Methodology note: Indicative Type I cost ranges compiled and accessed July 25, 2026 from public market discussions of SaaS SOC 2 Type I engagements. Not a firm quote.
- AICPA Trust Services Criteria: AICPA TSP Section 100 — 2017 Trust Services Criteria with 2022 Revised Points of Focus; accessed July 25, 2026
Frequently Asked Questions
Typically yes for the same firm and scope, because Type II adds period testing. Exact deltas depend on firm, categories, and evidence maturity.
Some will for early deals; many enterprise questionnaires explicitly ask for a recent Type II. Confirm with the buyer before budgeting only Type I.
Often no — if Type II follows within months, choose tooling for the full program. See /costs/soc-2/with-automation.
No. Obtain written proposals from licensed CPA firms for your boundary.