Kaviyan S.P
Audit Documentation:
Standards on Auditing (SA) 230 lays down the basic principles of Audit Documentation. Audit Documentation is generally referred to as “Working Papers”. Audit Documentation is defined as the records of Audit Procedures performed, relevant audit evidence obtained, and conclusions reached.
The work that the Auditor performed, the explanations given to the Auditor, the conclusions given by the auditor, and all other Audit Procedures performed are evidenced by “Audit Documentation”.
Forms of Audit Documentation:
The Audit Documentation may be recorded in paper or electronic form. The significant components of Audit Documentation are,
Working Papers are prepared or obtained and retained by the auditors in connection with work performed by them. Working papers are the properties of the Auditors, he may make them available at his discretion.
Audit Files are generally one or more folders in physical or electronic form containing the record of Audit Documentation for specific Engagements. It is classified as a Permanent Audit File and a Current Audit File. The auditor shall assemble the Audit File within 60 days from the date of the Audit Report.
Why is Audit Documentation important?
Audit Documentation is considered the backbone of an audit. It aids in audit planning, execution, accountability and responsibility determination, audit supervision, and audit review.
Audit Documentation also provides evidence as to whether the overall objective of the auditor was achieved as well as whether it was planned and performed in accordance with Standards of Auditing and also as per applicable legal and regulatory requirements.
Evidence:
Audit Documentation serves as evidence that the Audit was planned and Performed. It serves as a basis on which the conclusion is arrived at, and it provides Historical information and context. Most importantly, it acts as evidence that the audit was planned and performed in accordance with Standards on Auditing.
Better Quality:
Audit Documentation ensures the Quality and Consistency of the Audit Process and so it results in better conceptual clarity of thought and expression. Also it strengthens the Auditor’s Justification on attaining conclusion about achieving the Auditor’s objectives.
Basis for Conclusion:
Audit Documentation serves as a rationale for the Conclusion in the Audit Report and basis for External peer review. It assists in the Auditor’s conclusion in the reasonableness of assessing the areas of Risk of Material Misstatement and also the basis for the Authenticity of the Audit.
Facilitates Audit:
It Assists in supervision and review. It ensures continuity in the audit process and helps auditors to understand the works of prior audits as well as work done by the predecessor auditor. It enhances transparency. It also serves as a training tool for new auditors, helping them understand the audit process and best practices.
FAQs
How long are the Working papers required to be maintained?
The working papers are to be retained for not less than 7 years from the date of the audit report.
What is the difference between audit documentation and audit evidence?
Audit Documentation supports the conclusions arrived by the Auditors, while Audit Evidence supports the management’s assertions regarding the financial statements or internal control over financial reporting
What is Completion Memorandum?
The completion Memorandum is nothing but the Audit Documentation Summary. It answers the following questions,
- How significant matters are identified during the Audit Procedures performed?
- How are the identified significant matters addressed?
