What Verdica's 766 score means for Citrin Cooperman & Company LLP
Citrin Cooperman & Company LLP scores 766 out of 850 on Verdica's composite scale, placing it in the "strong" band (740–799). This score reflects solid regulatory standing across the dimensions Verdica tracks: state licensing, PCAOB audit history, and disciplinary records.
A score in the strong band means the firm meets core compliance expectations and maintains good standing with regulators. However, it is not in the highest tier (800–850, "excellent"). The gap between 766 and 850 is meaningful: it suggests room for improvement in at least one compliance dimension, most notably the PCAOB Record sub-score of 640, which pulls the overall composite down.
For a business owner or consumer evaluating this firm, a 766 score indicates a trustworthy provider with no apparent red flags in licensing or discipline. The firm is not a high-risk choice. That said, the PCAOB findings warrant a closer look before engagement, which is addressed below.
How the sub-scores break down
License & Credentials: 850 This perfect sub-score indicates that Citrin Cooperman & Company LLP holds valid, current registration with California's state accounting board and meets all credential requirements. No suspensions, lapses, or restrictions are flagged in the underlying data. This is the baseline requirement for operating as an accounting provider.
Disciplinary: 850 The firm has no recorded disciplinary actions, complaints, or sanctions in the systems Verdica tracks. This suggests clean compliance history with state boards regarding conduct, billing disputes, or violation of professional standards. A perfect score here is common for firms without public disciplinary records.
PCAOB Record: 640 This is the sub-score driving the overall composite down from the "excellent" range. A PCAOB Record score of 640 falls in the "elevated risk" band and reflects findings identified during PCAOB inspections. In the accounting industry, the PCAOB (Public Company Accounting Oversight Board) audits firms that audit public companies. Their inspection reports document quality control gaps, technical compliance issues, or audit execution deficiencies. A score of 640 does not mean the firm is unsafe or unlicensed; it means PCAOB inspectors have noted areas needing improvement.
The gap between perfect License/Disciplinary scores and a lower PCAOB Record score is typical for mid-sized firms undergoing regulatory inspection. It indicates compliance with basic operational requirements but room for tightening audit procedures or quality controls.
What regulators in CA track for accounting providers
California's state board licenses accounting providers and monitors for violations like incompetence, dishonesty, or failure to follow professional standards. Violations result in disciplinary action ranging from warnings to license revocation.
The PCAOB independently inspects accounting firms that audit public companies or securities issuers. Their inspections are mandatory and occur on a triennial or triennial-plus cycle depending on firm size. PCAOB reports document specific findings in categories such as:
- Audit planning and risk assessment gaps
- Insufficient evidence gathering
- Technical accounting or auditing standard violations
- Quality control deficiencies
These findings do not automatically revoke licenses but signal where a firm must remediate. Firms with repeated, unaddressed findings face escalating consequences. A single PCAOB inspection cycle with moderate findings—reflected in a 640 sub-score—is not uncommon for firms serving mid-market clients.
Bottom line
Citrin Cooperman & Company LLP is a strong-tier provider with no licensing or disciplinary concerns, but PCAOB inspection findings warrant due diligence. Before engaging, verify that any prior PCAOB findings have been addressed and confirm the firm's experience with your specific audit or compliance needs. Request references and review their most recent PCAOB inspection letter if available.