Article · 12 min read

When Should a Startup Get SOC 2? Timing Guide

Travis Good · Workstreet Free Beginner

Answers the actual question a founder has, which is when rather than whether, and draws the Type 1 versus Type 2 line clearly: Type 1 is a bridge you can cross in weeks, Type 2 needs a 90 day observation window you have to start early.

• Type 2 needs an observation window, and 90 days is the shortest most auditors accept.
• A first Type 2 realistically takes 4 to 6 months, so waiting for a prospect to ask is already late.
• Type 1 can be done in a couple of weeks, fastest seen was eight or nine days, which is the bridge while Type 2 runs.
• Start with the Security criteria only, then add Availability or Confidentiality when a specific deal demands it.