Introduction

For many B2B companies, the question “How long does it take to get SOC 2 certified?” is one of the first asked when considering Information Security & Compliance. Achieving SOC 2 Certification not only strengthens Customer Trust but also opens doors to new markets. However, understanding the real time commitment involved helps businesses plan smarter & avoid unnecessary stress.

In this guide, we break down the process, explain what influences the timeline & share practical advice to make the journey smoother.

What is SOC 2 Certification?

SOC 2 stands for Service Organisation Control 2, is a Standard created by the American Institute of Certified Public Accountants [AICPA]. It evaluates how a company manages Customer Data based on five (5) Trust Service Criteria: Security, Availability, Processing Integrity, Confidentiality & Privacy.

Unlike Certifications like ISO 27001, SOC 2 Reports are customised. Every company’s Controls & Systems are different, making the timeline for Certification flexible rather than fixed.

Why B2B Companies Seek SOC 2 Certification?

In B2B markets, trust is currency. Partners & Clients want proof that their data is safe. SOC 2 Certification acts like a seal of approval, showing that a company follows strong Security Practices.

Without it, a business may be overlooked in Vendor evaluations or lose opportunities to competitors who are already certified. This growing importance leads many to ask early on, how long does it take to get SOC 2 certified?

Factors That Affect How Long SOC 2 Certification takes?

Several key factors influence how long does it take to get SOC 2 certified:

• Current Security Maturity: Companies with mature Security practices need less preparation.
• Scope of Audit: Covering all five (5) Trust Service Criteria usually takes longer than focusing on just Security.
• Resources Available: Dedicated teams & budgets can speed up the process.
• Type of Report Chosen: SOC 2 Type I is quicker, while SOC 2 Type II needs monitoring over a longer period, usually three (3) to twelve (12) months.

Step-by-Step Timeline to Get SOC 2 Certified

A rough timeline for a typical B2B company could look like this:

• Readiness Assessment – 4 to 6 weeks: Identify Gaps & design Controls.
• Remediation & Implementation – 1 to 6 months: Fix Gaps & document processes.
• Audit Period for Type II – 3 to 12 months: Operate Controls while Auditors observe.
• Audit Reporting – 4 to 8 weeks: Final review & Report issuance.

In total, when B2B companies ask how long does it take to get SOC 2 certified, the answer usually falls between six (6) to eighteen (18) months, depending on the complexity.

Historical Perspective: How SOC 2 Timelines Have Evolved

When SOC 2 first gained traction around 2011, the timelines were often longer due to lack of awareness & tools. Companies struggled with manual Policies & few specialized consultants existed.

Today, with better frameworks, automated tools & experienced Aditors, asking how long does it take to get SOC 2 certified brings a faster answer. Shorter preparation times are now achievable, although commitment & planning are still necessary.

Practical Challenges in Getting SOC 2 Certified

Despite good intentions, real-world hurdles often extend the timeline. Examples include:

• Staff turnover mid-process
• Misunderstanding Trust Service Criteria requirements
• Overstretching existing IT teams
• Slow remediation of identified Gaps

Understanding these challenges is key when estimating how long does it take to get SOC 2 certified.

Common Delays & How to avoid Them

Common causes of delay include underestimating internal preparation, lacking Executive Buy-In or skipping the readiness assessment.

Avoid these by:

• Appointing a Project Owner early
• Conducting a thorough pre-Audit
• Investing in tools for Evidence Collection

Think of it like building a house. Skipping the blueprint phase usually leads to costly fixes later.

Is There a Way to Speed Up SOC 2 Certification?

Yes, there are ways to accelerate the timeline:

• Use Pre-built Templates: For Policies & Procedures.
• Adopt Compliance Platforms: Automate Evidence Collection.
• Engage Experienced Auditors: Choose Auditors who specialise in your industry.
• Focus on Critical Controls: Instead of trying to do everything at once.

When asked how long does it take to get SOC 2 certified, companies that plan strategically can often trim several months off their journey.

Conclusion

The path to SOC 2 Certification is not a straight road but a journey shaped by preparation, priorities & persistence. Whether your company is starting from scratch or fine-tuning an existing program, knowing the real timeframes makes the process less overwhelming.

Takeaways

• The answer to how long does it take to get SOC 2 certified varies from six (6) months to eighteen (18) months.
• Current Security practices, scope & type of report are major factors.
• Early planning & investment in tools can significantly shorten timelines.
• Avoiding common mistakes helps prevent unnecessary delays.
• SOC 2 is not just a badge, but a strong foundation for building Client trust.

FAQ

Need help? 

Neumetric provides organisations the necessary help to achieve their Cybersecurity, Compliance, Governance, Privacy, Certifications & Pentesting goals. 

Organisations & Businesses, specifically those which provide SaaS & AI Solutions, usually need a Cybersecurity Partner for meeting & maintaining the ongoing Security & Privacy needs & requirements of their Clients & Customers. 

SOC 2, ISO 27001, NIST, HIPAA, HECVAT, EU GDPR are some of the Frameworks that are served by Fusion – a centralised, automated, AI-enabled SaaS Solution provided by Neumetric. 

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