So how much will it cost to comply?

Small companies, even with the likelihood of another delay, are rightfully concerned with how much 404 compliance will cost them. The issue is not an easy one. There's not a lot of data out there. Indeed, the delay in compliance for nonaccelerated filers is being driven by the need for more data; Congress has asked for better cost estimates. Sarbox consulting firm Lord & Benoit has come out with a new report, based on a look at 29 companies. It concludes that the average first-year cost for management assessment and additional audit fees would be $78,474. That's 14 percent less than the $91,000 cost the SEC initially said. Of course the complexity of the company must be factored in. Some might have to spend a lot more. And there are benefits to be weighed against. Whether you think it's worth it or not, at some point--looks like the auditor attestation delay will extend to fiscal years that end after 2009 now--compliance will be a reality.  

For more:
- here's a copy of the report (reg. req.)