What Verdica's 656 score means for Gary Hooper
Gary Hooper's composite score of 656 places him in the elevated-risk band (580–669). This means his profile shows some meaningful strengths alongside notable gaps that warrant attention before engagement. A score in this range suggests the provider operates with regulatory approval, but has areas where performance or standing falls below industry norms.
For a business owner or audit committee evaluating this provider, a 656 score signals a need to dig deeper. It's not a disqualifying mark—the provider is licensed and operating—but it's not a straightforward approval either. You should expect to ask clarifying questions about his specific practice areas, client references, and any recent changes to his standing. The elevated-risk designation means due diligence beyond the score itself is prudent.
How the sub-scores break down
License & Credentials: 340 This sub-score is notably low and is the primary drag on the overall composite. A score of 340 (on a scale where higher is better) indicates gaps or concerns in licensing status or credential verification at the state level. In accounting, this typically reflects incomplete credentials, lapsed certifications, or licensing limitations. This doesn't necessarily mean the provider cannot work, but it signals that his qualifications or standing in Colorado may be restricted, conditional, or fall short of full professional standing.
PCAOB Record: 810 This is a strong sub-score, indicating a solid track record in PCAOB audit inspections. The Public Company Accounting Oversight Board reviews the quality of audits performed by registered firms and auditors. A score of 810 suggests Gary Hooper's audit work has generally met acceptable quality standards in PCAOB reviews, with no major red flags in inspection findings. This is a positive indicator of audit execution competence.
Disciplinary: 850 This is an excellent sub-score, indicating a clean disciplinary record. No substantive complaints, sanctions, or enforcement actions appear in the underlying state board or PCAOB records. This suggests the provider has not faced public allegations of misconduct, negligence, or rule violations. A score at this ceiling is favorable and reflects professional standing.
What regulators in CO track for accounting providers
Colorado's state board (likely the Colorado Department of Regulatory Agencies or equivalent) maintains registration records for licensed accountants and firms, monitoring compliance with continuing education, fee payment, and ethical standards. Board records flag licensing lapses, suspensions, or conditions placed on a provider's practice.
The PCAOB conducts triennial and targeted inspections of audit firms and auditors, reviewing audit workpapers, compliance with auditing standards, and quality controls. Inspection reports identify deficiencies ranging from minor documentation gaps to significant failures in audit scope or judgment. Scores improve when inspection findings are minimal or remediated.
Disciplinary data consolidates formal complaints, investigations, and enforcement actions—whether settled, closed, or ongoing. Accounting providers can face discipline for misrepresentation of credentials, failure to maintain independence, poor audit quality, fee disputes, or violations of professional conduct rules. These are public record and heavily weighted in trust assessments.
For an accounting provider in Colorado, regulators expect current licensure, clean compliance records, and demonstrated audit quality. Gaps in credentials or licensing restrictions are red flags that limit scope of practice.
Bottom line
Gary Hooper's 656 score reflects mixed standing: strong audit quality and a clean disciplinary record are offset by notable credential or licensing gaps. Before engaging him, confirm the nature of his License & Credentials sub-score with the Colorado board, verify his specific scope of practice, and request client references. This provider is not a clear yes or no—he merits a detailed conversation.