What Verdica's 656 score means for Steven Fulton
Steven Fulton's composite score of 656 out of 850 places him in the "elevated risk" band (580–669). This grade B rating means there are identifiable compliance concerns that warrant attention, though the profile does not indicate critical regulatory failure.
For a business owner or individual considering engaging Steven Fulton's accounting services, this score signals that due diligence is appropriate before engagement. The score reflects a mixed profile: while his PCAOB audit record is strong, his credentials and disciplinary history present gaps that pull the overall rating into the elevated-risk zone. This is neither a clear green light nor a disqualification—it means verify his qualifications, understand his specific role in your engagement, and confirm he holds appropriate licensure for the work you need.
No independent customer reviews are currently indexed, so Verdica's rating rests entirely on regulator data. This means you cannot cross-reference client experiences, which adds importance to independent verification of his credentials and standing.
How the sub-scores break down
License & Credentials: 340
This sub-score is notably low and is the primary driver of the elevated overall rating. A score of 340 out of 850 in this dimension suggests gaps in formal licensure, educational credentials, or registration status relative to the scope of accounting services he may be offering. In Colorado, accounting providers are required to hold specific licenses (CPA, enrolled agent, tax preparer registration, etc.) depending on the services they deliver. A low credentials score typically indicates missing, expired, or limited licensure—or a mismatch between claimed services and held credentials. This is not a minor administrative issue; it directly affects whether an individual is legally permitted to perform certain accounting or tax functions.
PCAOB Record: 810
This is a strength in the profile. A score of 810 in the PCAOB dimension indicates a solid audit history with the Public Company Accounting Oversight Board, which oversees audits of public companies and registered firms. A score this high suggests either an absence of significant audit failures or successful remediation of past findings. This does not mean perfection, but it does suggest competence in audit execution and a track record of meeting federal audit standards.
Disciplinary: 850
This is the highest sub-score and indicates a clean disciplinary record with Colorado's state board. No material complaints, sanctions, or enforcement actions appear in the state regulatory file. This is a positive signal of professional conduct and absence of reported misconduct.
What regulators in CO track for accounting providers
Colorado's state board of accountancy and the PCAOB enforce different but complementary compliance standards.
The state board maintains registration requirements and disciplinary records for all accounting professionals. They track CPA licenses, tax preparer registrations, and enrollment agent status. They also investigate complaints involving fraud, incompetence, gross negligence, or violations of professional standards. High disciplinary scores mean no substantiated violations on file.
The PCAOB oversees firms and individuals conducting audits of public companies. They inspect audit files for technical competence, independence compliance, and quality control. Their audit findings measure whether engagements met AICPA standards and SEC independence rules. A strong PCAOB score suggests sound audit methodology and adherence to federal standards.
A low credentials score often reflects incomplete licensing—for example, offering tax preparation or audit services without the required CPA designation or registration. This is a direct compliance risk because it may indicate unlicensed activity.
Bottom line
Steven Fulton's elevated-risk rating is primarily driven by credential gaps, though his regulatory and audit records are sound. Before engaging him, verify his current Colorado license status, confirm the specific credentials he holds, and ensure they align with the services you need. Cross-check his CPA or preparer registration directly with the Colorado State Board of Accountancy to confirm active, unrestricted standing.