lOMoARcPSD|4363002

Auditing Theory CPAR

Business Administration (Lyceum of the Philippines University)

StuDocu is not sponsored or endorsed by any college or university

Credits to the rightful owner
 lOMoARcPSD|4363002

CPAR Reviewers

Auditing
Theory

Credits to the rightful owner

 lOMoARcPSD|4363002

CPA REVIEW SCHOOL OF THE PHILIPPINES

Manila

AUDITING THEORY CPA REVIEW

PREFACE TO PHILIPPINE STANDARDS ON QUALITY CONTROL, AUDITING, REVIEW,

OTHER ASSURANCE AND RELATED SERVICES
PHILIPPINE FRAMEWORK FOR ASSURANCE ENGAGEMENTS
OBJECTIVE AND GENERAL PRINCIPLES GOVERNING AN AUDIT OF FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
(PSA 200 [Amended as a result of PSA 700 (Revised)])

The Authority Attaching to Philippine Standards Issued by the AASC

STANDARDS APPLICATION
1. Philippine Standards on Auditing (PSAs) Audit of historical financial information
2. Philippine Standards on Review Review of historical financial information
Engagements (PSREs)
3. Philippine Standards on Assurance Assurance engagements dealing with
Engagements (PSAEs) subject matters other than historical
financial information
4. Philippine Standards on Related Services Compilation engagements
(PSRSs) Engagements to apply agreed-upon
procedures to information
Other related services engagements as
specified by the AASC

1. PSAs, PSREs, PSAEs and PSRSs are collectively referred to as the AASC’s Engagement Standards.
2. Philippine standards on Quality Control (PSQC) are to be applied for all services falling under
the AASC’s engagement standards.
3. Philippine Standards are applicable to engagements in the Public sector.

The Authority Attaching to Practice Statements Issued by the AASC

1. Philippine Practice Statements are issued to:
Provide interpretive guidance and practical assistance o professional accountants
in implementing Philippine Standards; and
Promote good practice
2. Professional accountants should be aware of and consider Practice Statements applicable to
the engagement.
3. A professional accountant who does not consider and apply the guidance included in a
relevant Practice Statements should be prepared to explain how the basic principles and
essential procedures in the AASC’s Engagement Standard(s) addressed by the Practice
Statement have been complied with.

PHILIPPINE FRAMEWORK FOR ASSURANCE ENGAGEMENTS

1. The Framework does not itself establish standards or provide procedural requirements for
the performance of assurance engagements.
2. In addition to the Framework and PSAs, PSREs and PSAEs, practitioners who perform
assurance engagements are governed by:
The Philippine Code of Ethics for Professional Accountants;
and Philippine Standards on Quality Control (PSQCs)

ASSURANCE ENGAGEMENTS
1. “Assurance engagement” means an agreement in which a particular expresses a conclusion
designed to enhance the degree of confidence of the intended users other than the responsible
party about the outcome of the evaluation or measurement of a subject matter against criteria.
2. “Subject matter information” refers to the outcome of the evaluation or measurement
of a subject matter.
3. In some assurance engagements, the evaluation or measurement of the subject I performed by
the responsible party, and the subject matter information is in the form of an assertion by the
responsible party that is made available to intended users (assertion-based engagements).
4. In other assurance engagements, the practitioner either directly performs the evaluation or
measurement of the subject matter, or obtains a representation from the responsible party that

Credits to the rightful owner

 lOMoARcPSD|4363002

has performed the evaluation or measurement that is not available to the intended users in
the assurance report (direct reporting engagements)

TWO TYPES OF ASSURANCE ENGAGEMENT

1. Reasonable assurance engagement – the objective is a reduction in assurance engagement
risk to an acceptably low level in the circumstances of the engagement as the basis for a
positive form of expression of the practitioner’s conclusion.
2. Limited assurance engagement – the objective is a reduction in assurance engagement risk to
a level that is acceptable in the circumstances of the engagement, but where the risk is
greater than for a reasonable assurance engagement, as a basis for a negative form of
expression of the practitioner’s conclusion.

SCOPE OF THE FRAMEWORK

The following are non-assurance engagements and therefore are not covered by the Framework:
1. Engagements covered by the PSRSs such as agreed-upon procedures engagements
and compilations of financial or other information.
2. The preparation of tax returns where no conclusion conveying assurance is expressed.
3. Consulting (or advisory) engagements, such as management and tax consulting.

ELEMENTS OF AN ASSUARANCE ENGAGEMENT

1. A three-party relationship involving:
A practitioner;
A responsible party;
and Intended users.
2. An appropriate subject matter;
3. Suitable criteria;
4. Sufficient appropriate evidence; and
5. A written assurance report in the form appropriate to a reasonable assurance engagement
or a limited assurance engagement.

OBJECTIVE AND GENERAL PRINCIPLES GOVERNING AN AUDIT OF FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

1. The OBJECTIVE of an audit of financial statements is to enable the auditor to express an
opinion whether the financial statements are prepared, in all material respects, in
accordance with an applicable financial reporting framework.
2. The auditor should comply with relevant ethical requirements relating to audit engagements.
3. The auditor should conduct the audit in accordance with PSAs.
4. “Scope of an audit” refers to the audit procedures that, in the auditor’s judgment and based
on PSAs, are deemed appropriate in the circumstances to achieve the objective of the audit.
5. The auditor should plan and perform an audit with an attitude of PROFESSIONAL
SKEPTICISM recognizing that circumstances may exist that cause the financial statements
to be materially misstated.
6. In forming the audit opinion, the auditor obtains sufficient appropriate evidence to be able
to draw conclusions on which to base that opinion.
7. The auditor’s opinion enhances the credibility of financial statements by providing a high,
but not absolute, level of assurance.
8. Absolute assurance in auditing is not attainable as a result of such factors as:
The need for judgment;
The use of testing;
The inherent limitations of any accounting and internal control systems; and
The fact that most of the evidence available to the auditor is persuasive, rather
than conclusive, in nature.
9. While the auditor is responsible for forming and expressing an opinion on the financial
statements, the responsibility for the preparation and presentation of the financial
statements in accordance with the applicable financial reporting framework is that of the
entity’s MANAGEMENT, with oversight from those charged with governance.

Credits to the rightful owner

 lOMoARcPSD|4363002

ENGAGEMENTS TO REVIEW FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

1. The objective of a review of financial statements is to enable a practitioner to state whether,
on the basis of procedures which do not provide all the evidence that would be require in an
audit, anything has come to the practitioner’s attention that causes the practitioner to believe
that the financial statements are not prepared, in all material respects, in accordance with an
identified financial reporting framework (negative assurance)
2. A review comprises INQUIRY and ANALYTICAL PROCEDURES which are designed to review the
reliability of an assertion that is the responsibility of one party for use by another party.
3. A review does not ordinarily involve an assessment of accounting and internal control
systems, tests of records and of responses to inquiries by obtaining corroborating evidence
through inspection, observation, confirmation and computation, which are procedures
ordinarily performed during an audit.
4. The level of assurance provided in a review report is less that that given in an audit report.

ENGAGEMENTS TO PERFORM AGREED-UPON PROCEDURES REGARDING FINANCIAL INFORMATION

1. In an engagement to perform agreed-upon procedures, an auditor is engaged to carry out
those procedures of an audit nature to which the auditor and the entity and any appropriate
third parties have agreed and to report on FACTUAL FINDINGS.
2. The recipients of the report must form their own conclusion from the report of the auditor.
3. The report is restricted to those parties that have agreed to the procedures to be performed
since others, unaware of the reasons for the procedures, may misinterpret the results.

ENGAGEMENTS TO COMPILE FINANCIAL INFORMATION

1. In a compilation engagement, the accountant is engaged to use accounting expertise as
opposed to auditing expertise to collect, classify, and summarized financial information.
2. It ordinarily entails reducing detailed data to manageable and understandable form
without a requirement to test the assertions underlying that information.
3. The procedures performed are not designed and do not enable the accountant to express
any assurance on the financial information.
4. Users of compiled financial information derived some benefit as a result of the accountant’s
involvement because the service has been performed with due professional skill and care.

SUMMARY
Nature of service Audit Review Agreed-upon Compilation
Procedures
Level of Assurance High, but not Moderate No assurance No assurance
Provided absolute assurance
assurance
Report provided Positive assurance Negative Factual findings of Identification of
on assertion(s) assurance on procedures information
(Audit Report) assertion(s) compiled
(Review Report) (Compilation
Report)

Credits to the rightful owner

 lOMoARcPSD|4363002

CPA REVIEW SCHOOL OF THE PHILIPPINES

Manila

AUDITING THEORY CPA REVIEW

PSQC1 QUALITY CONTROL FOR FIRMS THAT PERFORM AUDITS AND REVIEWS OF HISTORICAL
FINANCIAL INFORMATION, AND OTHER ASSURANCE AND RELATED SERVICES
PSA 220 (REVISED)
QUALITY CONTROL FOR AUDITS OF HISTORICAL FINANCIAL INFORMATION
PSA 210 [AMENDED BY PSA 700(REVISED)]
TERMS OF AUDIT ENGAGEMENTS

PSQC 1
1. The firm should establish a System of Quality Control to provide it with reasonable
assurance that:
a. The firm and its personnel comply with professional standards and regulatory
and legal requirements; and
b. The reports issued by the firm or engagement partners are appropriate in
the circumstances.
2. Elements of a System of Quality Control
a. Leadership responsibility for quality within the firm
b. Ethical requirements
c. Acceptance and continuance of client relationships and specific engagements.
d. Human resources
e. Engagement performance
f. Monitoring

PSA 220 (Revised)

1. The engagement team should implement quality control procedures that are applicable to
the individual audit engagement.
2. The engagement partner should
a. Take responsibility for the overall quality on each audit engagement to which
that partner is assigned.
b. Consider whether members of the engagement team have complied with
ethical requirements.
c. Be satisfied that appropriate procedures regarding the acceptance and continuance
of client relationships and specific audit engagements have been followed, and that
conclusions reached in this regard are appropriate and have been documented.
d. Be satisfied that the engagement team collectively has the appropriate capabilities,
competence and time to perform the audit engagement in accordance with
professional standards and regulatory and legal requirements, and to enable an
auditor’s report that is appropriate in the circumstances to be issued.
e. Take responsibility for the direction, supervision and performance of the audit
engagement in compliance with professional standards and regulatory and
legal requirements, and for the auditor’s report that is issued to be
appropriate n he circumstances.
f. Be satisfied that sufficient appropriate audit evidence has been obtained to
support the conclusions reached and for the auditor’s report to be issued.

PSA 210 [AMENDED BY THE PSA 700 (REVISED)]

1. The purpose of this standard is to establish standards and provide guidelines on:
a. Agreeing the terms of the engagement with the client; and
b. The auditor’s response to a request by a client to change the terms of
an engagement to one that provides a lower level of assurance.
2. Audit Engagement Letters

It is in the interest of both client and auditor that the auditor sends an
engagement letter, preferably before the commencement of the engagement, to help in
avoiding misunderstandings with respect to the engagement.

Credits to the rightful owner

 lOMoARcPSD|4363002

Principal Contents
An engagement letter would generally include reference to:
The objective of the audit of financial statements.
Management’s responsibility for the financial statements.
The financial reporting framework adopted by management
in preparing the financial statements.
The scope of the audit, including reference to applicable
legislation, regulations or pronouncements of
professional bodies to which the auditor adheres.
The form of any reports or other communication of results
of the engagement.
The fact that because of the test nature and other inherent
limitations of an audit, together with the inherent limitations
of any accounting and internal controls system, there is an
unavoidable risk that even some material misstatement may
remain undiscovered.
Unrestricted access to whatever records, documentation and
other information requested in connection with the audit.
3. Acceptance of a Change in Engagement
1. An auditor who, before the completion of the engagement, is requested to change
the engagement tone which provides a lower level of assurance, should consider
the appropriateness of doing so.
2. A request from the client for the auditor to change the engagement may result from:
a. A change in circumstances affecting the need for the service;
b. A misunderstanding as to the nature of an audit or related service
originally requested; or
c. A restriction on the scope of the engagement, whether imposed
by management or caused by circumstances.
(NOTE: A or B would ordinarily be a reasonable basis for requesting
a change in the engagement)
3. A change would not be considered reasonable if it appeared that the change
relates to information that is incorrect, incomplete or otherwise unsatisfactory.
4. Before agreeing to change an audit engagement to a related service, an auditor
would also consider any legal or contractual implications of the change.
5. If the auditor concludes that there is reasonable justification to change the
engagement and if the audit work performed complies with the PSAs applicable to
the change engagement, the report issued would be that appropriate for the
revised terms of the engagement.
6. In order to avoid confusing the reader, the report would not include reference to:
a. The original engagement; or
b. Any procedures that may have been performed by the original
engagement, except where the engagement is changed to undertake
agreed-upon procedures.
7. Where the terms of the engagement are changed, the auditor and the client
should agree in the new terms.
8. The auditor should not agree to a change of engagement where there is
no reasonable justification for doing so.
9. If the auditor is unable to agree to a change of engagement and is not permitted
to continue the original engagement, the auditor should withdraw and consider
whether there is any obligation, contractual or otherwise, to report to other
parties, such as the board of directors or shareholders, the circumstances
necessitating the withdrawal.

CPA REVIEW SCHOOL OF THE PHILIPPINES

Credits to the rightful owner

 lOMoARcPSD|4363002

Manila

AUDITING THEORY CPA REVIEW

PSA 300 (Rev.) PLANNING AN AUDIT OF FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

PSA 315UNDERSTANDING THE ENTITY AND ITS ENVIRONMENT AND ASSESSING THE
RISKS OF MATERIAL MISTATEMENT

PSA 300 (Rev.)

PLANNING AN AUDIT OF FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

1. Planning an audit involves:

establishing the overall audit strategy for the engagement and
developing an audit plan,
in order to reduce audit risk to an acceptably low level.

Preliminary Engagement Activities

2. The auditor should perform the following activities at the beginning of the current
audit engagement:
Perform procedures regarding the continuance of the client relationship and the
specific audit engagement.
Evaluate compliance with ethical requirements, including independence.
Establish an understanding of the terms of the engagement.

Planning Activities

3. The auditor should establish the overall audit strategy for the audit. The overall audit strategy
sets the scope, timing and direction of the audit, and guides the development of the more
detailed audit plan

4. The establishment of the overall audit strategy involves:

a.) Determining the characteristics of the engagement that define its scope;
b.) Ascertaining the reporting objectives of the engagement to plan the timing of the audit and the
nature of the communication required; and
c.) Considering the important factors that will determine the focus of the engagement
team’s efforts.

5. The auditor should develop an audit plan for the audit in order to reduce audit risk to
an acceptably low level.
6. The audit plan is more detailed than the overall audit strategy and includes the nature, timing
and extent of audit procedures to be performed by engagement team members in order to
obtain sufficient appropriate audit evidence to reduce audit risk to an acceptably low level.

7. The audit plan includes:

A description of the nature, timing and extent of planned risk assessment procedures sufficient
to assess the risks of material misstatement as determined under PSA 315, “Understanding the
Entity and its Environment and Assessing the Risks of Material Misstatement.”;
A description of the nature, timing and extent of planned further audit procedures at the
assertion level for each material class of transactions, account balance, and disclosure, as
determined under PSA 330, “The Auditor’s Procedures in Response to Assessed Risks,”; and
Such other procedures required to be carried out for the engagement in order to comply
with PSAs

Changes to Planning Decisions during the Course of the Audit

The overall audit strategy and the audit plan should be updated and changed as necessary during
the course of the audit.

Direction, Supervision and Review

Credits to the rightful owner

 lOMoARcPSD|4363002

1. The auditor should plan the nature, timing and extent of direction and supervision of
engagement team members and review their work.

2. The nature, timing and extent of the direction and supervision of engagement team members
and review of their work vary depending on many factors, including:

The size and complexity of the entity;

The area of audit;
The risks of material misstatement; and
The capabilities and competence of personnel performing the audit work.

3. The auditor plans the nature, timing and extent of direction and supervision of engagement
team members based on the assessed risk of material misstatement.

Documentation

The auditor should document the overall audit strategy and the audit plan, including any
significant changes made during the audit engagement.

Communications with Those Charged with Governance and Management

1. The auditor may discuss elements of planning with those charged with governance and the
entity’s management.

2. Discussions with those charged with governance ordinarily include the overall audit strategy
and timing of the audit, including any limitations thereon, or any additional requirements.

3. When discussion of matters included in the overall audit strategy or audit plan occur, care
is required in order not to compromise the effectiveness of the audit.

Additional Considerations in Initial Audit Engagements

The auditor should perform the following activities prior to starting an initial audit:

1. Perform procedures regarding the acceptance of the client relationship and the specific
audit engagement.

2. Communicate with the previous auditor, where there has been a change of auditors, in
compliance with relevant ethical requirements.

PSA 315
UNDERSTANDING THE ENTITY AND ITS ENVIRONMENT AND ASSESSING THE RISKS OF
MATERIAL MISSTATEMENT

1. The auditor should obtain an understanding of the entity and its environment, including its
internal control, sufficient to identify and assess the risks of material misstatement of the
financial statements whether due to fraud or error, and sufficient to design and perform further
audit procedures.

2. The auditor should perform the following risk assessment procedures to obtain an
understanding of the entity and its environment, including its internal control:

a.) Industry, regulatory, and other external factors, including the applicable financial
reporting framework.
b.) Nature of the entity, including the entity’s selection and application of accounting policies. c.)
Objectives and strategies and the related business risks that may result in a material
misstatement of the financial statements.
d.) Measurement and review of the entity’s financial performance.
e.) Internal control.

Credits to the rightful owner

 lOMoARcPSD|4363002

INTERNAL CONTROL

1. Internal control is the process designed and effected by those charged with governance,
management, and other personnel to provide reasonable assurance about the achievement of
the entity’s objectives with regard to:
Reliability of financial reporting;
Effectiveness and efficiency of operations; and
Compliance with applicable laws and regulations.

2. The auditor uses the understanding of internal control to:

Identify types of potential misstatements;
Consider factors that affect the risks of material misstatement; and
Design the nature, timing and extent of further audit procedures.

3. Internal control consists of the following components:

1.) The control environment.

2.) The entity’s risk assessment process.
3.) The information system, including the related business processes, relevant to financial
reporting, and communication.
4.) Control activities.
5.) Monitoring of controls.

The control environment includes the governance and management functions and the attitudes,
awareness, and actions of those charged with governance and management concerning the
entity’s internal control and its importance in the entity.

Elements of control environment:

a) Communication of enforcement of integrity and ethical values.
b) Commitment to competence.
c) Participation by those charged with governance.
d) Management’s philosophy and operating style.
e) Organizational structure.
f) Assignments of authority and responsibility.
g) Human resource policies and practices.

The auditor should obtain an understanding of the entity’s risk assessment process, i.e., the
entity’ process for identifying business risks relevant to financial reporting objectives and
deciding about actions to address those risks, and the results thereof.

The auditor should obtain an understanding of the information system, including the
related business processes, relevant to financial reporting, including the following areas:

The classes of transactions in the entity’s operations that is significant to the

financial statements.

The procedures, within both IT and manual systems, by which those transactions
are initiated, recorded, processed and reported in the financial statements.

The related accounting records, whether electronic or manual, supporting information,

and specific accounts in the financial statements, in respect of initiating, recording,
processing and reporting transactions.

How the information system captures events and conditions, other than classes
of transactions that are significant to the financial statements.

The financial reporting process used to prepare the entity’s financial statements,
including significant accounting estimates and disclosures.

Credits to the rightful owner

 lOMoARcPSD|4363002

Control activities are the policies and procedures to help ensure that management directives
are carried out. Examples of control activities include those relating to the following:
Authorization
Performance reviews.
Information processing.
Physical controls.
Segregation of duties.

Monitoring of controls involves assessing the design and operation of controls on a timely
basis and taking the necessary corrective actions modified for changes in conditions.

4. Obtaining an understanding of internal control involves:

a) Evaluating the design of a control; and

b) Determining whether it has been implemented.

ASSESSING THE RISKS OF MAERIAL MISSTATEMENT

1. The auditor should identify and assess the risks of material misstatement at the financial
statements level, and at the assertion level for classes of transactions, account balances,
and disclosures.

2. The auditor:
Identifies risks throughout the process of obtaining an understanding of the entity and its
environment, including relevant controls that relate to the risks, and by considering the
classes of transactions, account balances, and disclosures in the financial statements;
Relates the identified risks to what can go wrong at the assertion level;
Considers whether the risks are of a magnitude that could result in a
material misstatement of the financial statements; and
Considers the likelihood that the risks could result in a material misstatement of
the financial statements.

10

Credits to the rightful owner

 lOMoARcPSD|4363002

CPA REVIEW SCHOOL OF THE PHILIPPINES

Manila

AUDITING THEORY CPA REVIEW

PSA 330
THE AUDITOR’S PROCEDURES IN REPONSE TO ASSESSED RISKS

Overall responses
1. The auditor should determine overall responses to address the risks of material misstatement
at the financial statement level. Such responses may include:
Emphasizing to the audit team the need to maintain professional skepticism
n gathering and evaluating audit evidence
Assigning more experienced staff or those with special skills or using
experts Providing more supervision
Incorporating additional elements of unpredictability in the selection of
further audit procedures to be performed
Making general changes to the nature, timing or extent of audit procedures

Audit Procedures Responsive to Risks of Material Misstatement at the Assertion Level

1. In designing further audit procedures, the auditor considers the following:
The significance of the risk
The likelihood that the material misstatement will occur
The characteristics of the class transactions, account balance, or
disclosure involved.
The nature of the specific controls used by the entity and in particular
whether they are manual or automated
Whether the auditor expects to obtain audit evidence to determine if the
entity’s controls are effective n preventing, or detecting and correcting,
material misstatements
2. Considering the nature, timing and extent of further audit
procedures The nature of further audit procedures refers to their:
a. Purpose- tests of controls or substantive procedures
b. Type - inspection, observation, inquiry, confirmation,
recalculation, reperformance, or analytical procedures.

Timing refers to when audit procedures are performed or the period or date to which the
audit evidence applies.

Extent includes the quantity of a specific audit procedure to be performed.

TESTS OF CONTROLS
1. The auditor is required to perform tests of controls when:
a. The auditor’s risk assessment includes an expectation of the operating
effectiveness of controls; or
b. When the substantive procedures alone do not provide sufficient appropriate
audit evidence at the assertion level

2. Tests of the operating effectiveness of controls are performed only on those controls
that the auditor has determined are suitably designed to prevent, or detect and
correct, a material misstatement in an assertion
3. Testing the operating effectiveness of controls includes obtaining evidence about:
a. How controls were applied at relevant times during the period under audit;
b. The consistency with which they were applied; and
c. By whom or by what means they were applied.

SUBSTANTIVE PROCEDURES
1. Substantive test procedures are performed in order to detect material misstatements at
the assertion level, and include:
Tests of details of classes of transactions, account balances, and disclosures; and
Substantive analytical procedures

11

Credits to the rightful owner

 lOMoARcPSD|4363002

2. The auditor’s substantive procedures should include the following audit procedures related
to the financial statement closing process:
Agreeing or reconciling the financial statements with accounting records; and
Examining material journal entries and other adjustments made during
the course of preparing the financial statements
3. The auditor should perform audit procedures to evaluate whether the overall presentation of
the financial statements, including the related disclosures, are in accordance with the
applicable financial reporting framework.

Evaluating the sufficiency and appropriateness of audit evidence obtained

1. Based on the audit procedures performed and the audit evidence obtained, the auditor
should evaluate whether the assessments of the risks of material misstatement at the
assertion level remain appropriate.
2. The auditor should conclude whether the assessments of the risks of material misstatement
in the financial statements.
3. If the auditor has not obtained sufficient appropriate audit evidence as to a material
financial statement assertion, the auditor should attempt to obtain further audit evidence. If
the auditor is unable to obtain further audit evidence, the auditor should express a qualified
opinion or a disclaimer of opinion.

Documentation
1. The auditor should document:
The overall responses to address the assessed risks of material misstatement
at the financial statement level and the nature, timing, and extent of the
further audit procedures;
The linkage of those procedures with the assessed risks at the assertion
level; and
The results of the audit procedures
2. If the auditor plans to use audit evidence about the operating effectiveness of controls
obtained in prior audits, the auditor should document the conclusions reached with regard to
relying on vcfsuch controls that were tested in a prior audit.
3. The auditor’s documentation should demonstrate that the financial statements agree
or reconcile with the underlying accounting records.

12

Credits to the rightful owner

 lOMoARcPSD|4363002

CPA REVIEW SCHOOL OF THE PHILIPPINES

Manila

AUDITING THEORY CPA REVIEW

PSA 320 AUDIT MATERIALITY (amended by PSA 240 [Revised 2005])

PSA 520 ANALYTICAL PROCEDURES
PSA 550 RELATED PARTIES
PSA 610 CONSIDERING THE WORK OF INTERNAL AUDIT
PSA 620 USING THE WORK OF AN EXPERT

PSA 320
AUDIT MATERIALITY
1. Materiality should be considered by the auditor when:
Determining the nature, timing and extent of audit procedures;
and Evaluating the effect of misstatements
2. There is an inverse relationship between materiality and the level of audit risk
3. In evaluating whether the financial statements are prepared, in all material respects, in
accordance with an applicable financial reporting framework, the auditor should assess
whether the aggregate of uncorrected misstatements that have been identified during the
audit is material.
4. If the auditor concludes that the aggregate of uncorrected misstatements may be material,
the auditor needs to consider:
Reducing audit risk by extending audit procedures; or
requesting management to adjust the financial statements for
the misstatements identified
5. If management refuses to adjust the financial statements and the results of extended audit
procedures do not enable the auditor to conclude that the aggregate of uncorrected
misstatements is not material, the auditor should consider the appropriate modification to
the auditor’s report.
6. If the auditor has identified a material misstatement resulting from error, the auditor should
communicate the misstatements to the appropriate level of management on a timely basis,
and consider the need to report it to those charged with governance.

PSA 520
ANALYTICAL PROCEDURES
1. “Analytical procedures” means the analysis of significant ratios and trends including the
resulting investigation of fluctuations and relationships that are inconsistent with other
relevant information or which deviate from predicted amounts.
2. Analytical procedures also include consideration of comparisons of the entity’s
financial statements:
a. Comparable information for prior periods
b. Anticipated results of the entity, such as budgets or forecasts, or expectations of
the auditor, such as an estimation of depreciation
c. Similar industry information
3. Analytical procedures also include consideration of relationships:
a. Among elements of financial information that would be expected to conform
to a predictable patter based on the entity’s experience, such as gross margin
percentages.
b. Between financial information and relevant no-financial information, such as
payroll costs to numbers and employees
4. The auditor should apply analytical procedures at the planning stage to assist in
understanding the business and in identifying areas of potential risk. Analytical procedures
in planning the use both financial and non-financial information.
5. The auditor should apply analytical procedures at or near the end of the audit when
performing an overall conclusion as to whether the financial statements as a whole are
consistent with the auditor’s knowledge of the business.
6. The application of analytical procedures is based on the expectation that relationships
among data exist and continue in the absence of known conditions to the contrary. The
presence of these relationships provides audit evidence as to the completeness, accuracy and
validity of the data produced by the accounting system
7. The extent of reliance that the auditor places on the results of analytical procedures depends
on the following factors:

13

Credits to the rightful owner

 lOMoARcPSD|4363002

a. Materiality of the items involved

b. Other audit procedures directed toward the same audit objectives
c. Accuracy with which the expected results of analytical procedures can be predicted.
8. When analytical procedures identify significant fluctuations or relationships that are
inconsistent with other relevant information or that deviate from predicted amounts, the
auditor should investigate and obtain adequate explanations and appropriate
corroborative evidence.
9. The investigation of unusual fluctuations and relationships ordinarily begins with inquiries
of management, followed by:
a. Corroboration of management responses; and
b. Consideration of the need to apply other audit procedures based on the results
of such inquiries, if management is unable to provide an explanation or if the
explanation is not considered adequate.

PSA 550
RELATED PARTIES
1. Management is responsible for the identification and disclosure of related parties
and transactions with such parties.
2. The auditor should perform audit procedures designed to obtain sufficient appropriate audit
evidence regarding the identification and disclosure by management of related parties and
the effect of related party transactions that are material to the financial statements.
However, an audit cannot be expected to detect all related party transactions.
3. The auditor needs to have a sufficient understanding of the entity and its environment to
enable identification of the events, transactions and practices that may result in a risk of
material misstatement regarding related parties and transactions with such parties.
4. When obtaining an understanding of the entity’s internal control, the auditor should
consider the adequacy of control activities over the authorization and recording of related
party transactions.
5. In examining the identified related party transactions, the auditor should obtain sufficient
appropriate audit evidence as to whether these transactions have been properly recorded
and disclosed.
6. The auditor should obtain a written representation from management concerning:
a. The completeness of information provided regarding the identification of
related parties; and
b. The adequacy of related party disclosures in the financial statements
7. The auditor is unable to obtain sufficient appropriate audit evidence concerning related
parties and transactions with such parties or concludes that their disclosure in the financial
statements is not adequate; the auditor should modify the audit report appropriately.

PSA 610
CONSIDERING THE WORK OF INTERNAL AUDIT
1. The external auditor should obtain a sufficient understanding of internal audit activities to
identify and assess the risks of material misstatement of the financial statements and to
design and perform further audit procedures.
2. The external auditor should perform an assessment of the internal audit function when
internal auditing is relevant to the external auditor’s risk assessment.
3. When obtaining an understanding and performing a preliminary assessment of the
internal audit function, the important criteria are:
a. Organizational status
b. Scope of the function
c. Technical competence
d. Due professional care
4. When planning to use the work of internal auditing, the external auditor will need to consider
internal auditing’s tentative plan for the period and discuss it as early a stage as possible.
5. Where the work of internal auditing is to be a factor in determining the nature, timing and
extent of the external auditor’s procedures, it is desirable to agree in advance the timing of
such work, the extent of audit coverage, materiality levels and proposed methods of sample
selection, documentation of the work performed and review and reporting procedures.
6. A liaison with internal auditing is more effective when meetings are held at appropriate
intervals during the period.

14

Credits to the rightful owner

 lOMoARcPSD|4363002

7. When the external auditor intends to use specific work of internal auditing, the external
auditor should evaluate and perform audit procedures on that work to confirm its adequacy
for the external auditor’s purposes.
8. The evaluation of specific work of internal auditing involves consideration of the adequacy
of the scope of the work and related programs and whether the preliminary assessment of
the internal auditing remains appropriate.
9. The nature, timing and extent of audit procedures performed on the specific work of
internal auditing will depend on:
The external auditor’s judgment as to the risk of material misstatement of
the area concerned;
The assessment of internal auditing; and
The evaluation of the specific work by internal auditing.
10. The external auditor would record conclusions regarding the specific internal auditing work
that has been evaluated and the audit procedures performed on the internal auditor’s work.

PSA 620
USING THE WORK OF AN EXPERT
1. “Expert’ means a person or firm possessing special skill, knowledge and experience
in a particular filed other than accounting and auditing.
2. An expert may be:
a. Contracted by the entity;
b. Contracted by the auditor;
c. Employed by the entity; or
d. Employed by the auditor.
3. When determining the need to use the work of an expert, the auditor would consider:
a. The materiality of the financial statement item being considered;
b. The risk of misstatement based on the nature and complexity of the matter
being considered; and
c. The quantity and quality of other audit evidence available
4. When planning t use the work of an expert, the auditor should evaluate the
professional competence and objectivity of the expert.
5. The risk that an expert’s objectivity will be impaired increases when the expert is:
a. Employed by the entity; or
b. Related in some other manner to the entity.
6. The auditor should obtain sufficient appropriate audit evidence that the scope of the
expert’s work is adequate for the purposes of the audit. Audit evidence may be obtained
through a review of the terms of reference which are often set out in written instructions
from the entity to the expert.
Such instructions to the expert may cover matters such as:
a. The objectives and scope of the expert’s work
b. A general outline as to the specific matters the auditor expects the expert’s
report to cover
c. The intended use by the auditor of the expert’s work, including the possible
communication to third parties of the expert’s identity and extent f involvement
d. The extent of the expert’s access to appropriate records and files
e. Clarification of the expert’s relationship with the entity, if any.
f. Confidentiality of the entity’s information
g. Information regarding the assumptions and methods intended to be used by
the expert and their consistency with those used in prior periods.
7. The auditor should evaluate the appropriateness of the expert’s work as audit evidence
regarding the financial statement assertion being considered. This will involve assessment
of whether the substance of the expert’s findings is properly reflected in the financial
statements or supports the financial statement assertions, and consideration of:
a. Source data used.
b. Assumptions and methods used and their consistency with prior periods
c. Results of the expert’s work in the light of the auditor’s overall knowledge of
the business and of the results of other audit procedures.
8. When considering whether the expert has used source data which is appropriate in
the circumstances, the auditor would consider the following procedures:
a. Making inquiries regarding any procedures undertaken by the expert to
establish whether the source data is sufficient, relevant and reliable.
b. Reviewing or testing the data used by the expert

15

Credits to the rightful owner

 lOMoARcPSD|4363002

9. If the results of the expert’s work do not provide sufficient audit evidence or if the results
are not consistent with other audit evidence, the auditor should resolve the matter. This
may involve:
a. Discussions with the entity and the expert
b. Applying additional audit procedures
c. Including possibly engaging another expert; or
d. Modifying the auditor’s report
10. When issuing an unmodified auditor’s report, the auditor should not refer to the work of an
expert. Such a reference might be misunderstood to be a qualification of the auditor’s
opinion or a division of responsibility, neither of which is intended.
11. If as a result of the work of an expert, the auditor decides to issue a modified auditor’s report,
in some circumstances it may be appropriate, in explaining the nature of the modification, to
refer to or describe the work o the expert (including the identity of the expert and the extent
of the expert’s involvement). In these circumstances, the auditor would obtain the permission
of the expert before making such a reference. If permission is refused and the auditor
believes a reference is necessary, the auditor may need to seek legal advice.

16

Credits to the rightful owner

 lOMoARcPSD|4363002

CPA REVIEW SCHOOL OF THE PHILIPPINES

Manila

AUDITING THEORY CPA REVIEW

PSA 500(REVISED) AUDIT EVIDENCE

PSA 501 AUDIT EVIDENCE – ADDITIONAL CONSIDERATIONS ON SPECIFIC ITEMS
PSA 505 EXTERNAL CONFIRMATIONS
PSA 230 AUDIT DOCUMENTATION

PSA 500(REVISED)
AUDIT EVIDENCE
1. The auditor should obtain sufficient appropriate audit evidence to be able to draw
reasonable conclusions on which to base the audit opinion
2. “Audit Evidence” is all the information used by the auditor in arriving at the conclusions on
which the opinion is based, and includes the information contained in the accounting
records underlying the financial statements and other information
3. Accounting records generally include:
The records of initial entries and supporting records, such as checks and
records of electronic fund transfers;
Invoices
Contracts
The general and subsidiary ledgers, journal entries and other adjustments to
the financial statements that are not reflected in formal journal entries; and
Records such as work sheets and spreadsheets supporting cost
allocations, computations, reconciliations and disclosures
4. Other information that the auditor may use as audit evidence includes:
Minutes of the meetings
Confirmations from third
parties Analysts’ reports
Comparable data about competitors (benchmarking)
Control manuals
Information obtained by auditors from such audit procedures as
inquiry, observation, and inspection; and
Other information developed by, or available to, the auditor that permits
the auditor to reach conclusions through valid reasoning

Sufficient appropriate evidence

1. Sufficiency is the measure of the quantity of audit evidence
2. Appropriateness is the measure of the quality of audit evidence; that is, its relevance and
its reliability in providing support for, or detecting material misstatements in, the classes
of transactions, account balances, and disclosures and related assertions.
3. The following generalizations can be made about the reliability of audit evidence:
a. Audit evidence I more reliable when it is obtained from independent
sources outside the entity
b. Audit evidence that is generated internally is more reliable when the
related controls imposed by the entity are effective
c. Audit evidence obtained directly by the auditor (for example, observation of the
application of a control) is more reliable than audit evidence obtained indirectly
or by inference (for example, the inquiry about the application of control)
d. Audit evidence is more reliable when it exists in a documentary form, whether
paper, electronic, or other medium (for example, contemporaneously written
record of a meeting is more reliable than a subsequent oral representation of
the matters discussed)
e. Audit evidence provided by original documents is more reliable than audit
evidence provided by photocopies or facsimiles
4. An audit rarely involves the authentication of documentation, nor is the auditor trained as
or expected to be an expert in such authentication

17

Credits to the rightful owner

 lOMoARcPSD|4363002

5. When information produced by the entity is used by the auditor to perform audit
procedures, the auditor should obtain audit evidence about the accuracy and completeness
of the information
6. In forming an audit opinion, the auditor does not examine all the information available
because conclusions ordinarily can be reached by using sampling approaches and other
means of selecting items for testing.

The use of assertions in obtaining audit evidence

1. Management is responsible for the fair presentation of financial statements that reflect
the nature and operations of the entity.
2. In representing that the financial statements are presented fairly, in all material respects,
in accordance with the applicable financial reporting framework, management implicitly
or explicitly makes assertions regarding the recognition, measurement, presentation, and
disclosure of the various elements of financial statements and related disclosures
3. The auditor should use assertions for classes of transactions, account balances, and
presentation and disclosures in sufficient detail to form a basis for the assessment of risks
of material misstatement and the design and performance of further audit procedures

CATEGORIES OF ASSERTIONS
a. Assertions about classes of transactions and events for the period under audit:
1. OCCURRENCE - transactions and events that have been recorded have
occurred and pertain to the entity
2. COMPLETENESS - all transactions and events that should have been recorded
have been recorded.
3. ACCURACY - amounts and other data relating to recorded transactions and
events have been recorded appropriately
4. CUTOFF - transactions and events have been recorded in the correct
accounting period
5. CLASSIFICATION - transactions and events have been recorded in the proper
accounts
b. Assertions about account balances at the period end:
1. EXISTENCE -assets, liabilities, and equity interests exist
2. RIGHTS AND OBLIGATIONS - the entity holds or controls the right to assets,
and liabilities are obligations of the entity
3. COMPLETENESS - all assets, liabilities, and equity interests that
should have been recorded have been recorded
4. VALUATION AND ALLOCATION - assets, liabilities and equity interests are
included in the financial statements at appropriate amounts and any resulting
valuation or allocation adjustments are appropriately recorded

c. Assertions about presentation and disclosure:

1. OCCURRENCE AND RIGHTS AND OBLIGATIONS
Disclosed events, transactions, and other matters have occurred
and pertain to the entity
2. COMPLETENESS
All disclosures that should have been included in the
financial statements have been included
3. CLASSIFICATION AND UNDERSTANDABILITY
Financial information is appropriately presented and described
and disclosures are clearly expressed
4. ACCURACY AND VALUATION
Financial and other information are disclosed fairly and at
appropriate amounts

Audit procedures for obtaining audit evidence

1. RISK ASSESSMENT PROCEDURES
Obtain an understanding of the entity and its environment, including its internal
control, to assess the risk of material misstatement at the financial statement and
assertion levels
2. TESTS OF CONTROLS
When necessary or when the auditor has determined to do so, test the
operating effectiveness of controls in preventing, or detecting and correcting,
material misstatements at the assertion level

18

Credits to the rightful owner

 lOMoARcPSD|4363002

3. SUBSTANTIVE PROCEDURES
Detect material misstatements at the assertion level. These include analytical
review procedures and tests of details

Examples of audit procedures

1. INSPECTION
Consists of examining records and documents, whether internal or external in paper
form, electronic form, or other media. Inspection of tangible assets consists of
physical examination of the assets.
2. OBSERVATION
Consists of looking at a process or procedure being performed by others
3. INQUIRY
Consists of seeking information of knowledgeable persons, both financial
and nonfinancial, throughout the entity or outside the entity
4. CONFIRMATION
The process of obtaining a representation of information or of an existing
condition directly from a third party
5. RECALCULATION
Consists of checking the mathematical accuracy of documents or records
6. REPERFORMANCE
The auditor’s independent execution of procedures or controls that were originally
performed as part of the entity’s internal control, either manually or through the use
of CAATs
7. ANALYTICAL PROCEDURES
Consists of evaluations of financial information made by a study of plausible
relationships among both financial and nonfinancial data. It also encompasses the
investigation of identified fluctuations and relationships that are inconsistent with
other relevant information or deviate significantly from predicted amounts.

PSA 501
AUDIT EVIDENCE – ADDITIONAL CONSIDERATIONS ON SPECIFIC ITEMS

Attendance at Physical Inventory Counting

1. When inventory is material to the financial statements, the auditor should obtain
sufficient appropriate audit evidence regarding its existence and condition by
attendance at physical inventory counting unless impracticable.

2. If unable to attend the physical inventory count on the date panned due to unforeseen
circumstances, the auditor should take or observe some physical counts on an alternative
date and, when necessary, perform tests of intervening transactions.

3. Where attendance is impracticable, due to factors such as the nature and location of the
inventory, the auditor should consider whether alternative procedures provide sufficient
appropriate audit evidence of existence and condition to conclude that the auditor need not
make reference to a scope limitation.

4. In planning attendance at the physical inventory count or the alternative procedures, the
auditor would consider:
The nature of the accounting and internal control systems used regarding inventory.
Inherent, control, and detection risks, and materiality related to inventory.
Whether adequate procedures are expected to be established and proper instructions
issued for physical inventory counting.
The timing of the count.
The locations at which inventory is held.
Whether an expert’s assistance is needed.

5. The auditor would review management’s instructions regarding:

The application of control procedures, for example, the collection of used
stocksheets, accounting for unused stocksheets, and count and recount procedures.

19

Credits to the rightful owner

 lOMoARcPSD|4363002

Accurate identification of the stage of completion of work in progress, of slow moving,

obsolete or damaged items and inventory by a third party, for example, on consignment.
Whether appropriate arrangements are made regarding the movement of inventory
between areas and the shipping and receipt of inventory before and after the cutoff date.

6. To obtain assurance that management’s procedures are adequately implemented the

auditor would observe employee’s procedures and perform test counts.

7. The auditor would also consider cutoff procedures including details of the movement of
inventory just prior to, during, and after the count so that the accounting for such movements
can be checked at a later date.

8. The auditor would test the final inventory listing to assess whether it accurately reflects
actual inventory counts.

9. When inventory is under the custody and control of a third party, the auditor would
ordinarily obtain direct conformation from the third party as to the quantities and condition
of inventory held on behalf of the entity. Depending on the materiality of this inventory, the
auditor would consider:
The integrity and independence of the third party.
Observing, or arranging for another auditor to observe, the physical inventory count.
Obtaining another auditor’s report on the adequacy of third party’s accounting and internal
control systems for ensuring that inventory is correctly counted and adequately safeguarded.
Inspecting documentation regarding inventory held by third parties, for example,
warehouse receipts, or obtaining confirmation from other parties when such inventory has
been pledged as collateral.

Procedures regarding litigation and claims

1. The auditor should carry out procedures in order to become aware of any litigation and
claims involving the entity, which may have a material effect on the financial statements.

Such procedures would include:

Make appropriate inquiries of management including obtaining representations.
Review board minutes and correspondence with the entity’s lawyers.
Examine legal expense accounts.
Use any information obtained regarding the entity’s business including information
obtained from discussions with any in–house legal department.

2. When litigation or claims have been identified or when the auditor believes they may exist,
the auditor should seek direct communication with the entity’s lawyers.

3. The letter, which should be prepared by management and sent by the auditor, should request
the lawyer to communicate directly with the auditor. When it is considered unlikely that the
lawyer will respond to a general inquiry, the letter would ordinarily specify:
A list of litigation and claims.
Management’s assessment of the outcome of the litigation or claim and its estimate of
the financial implications, including costs involved.
A request that the lawyer confirms the reasonableness of management’s assessments
and provides the auditor with further information if the list is considered by the lawyer
to be incomplete or incorrect.

4. The auditor considers the status of legal matters up to date of the audit report.

5. If management refuses to give the auditor permission to communicate with the entity’s
lawyers, this would be a scope limitation and should ordinarily lead to a qualified opinion or a
disclaimer of opinion.

20

Credits to the rightful owner

 lOMoARcPSD|4363002

Valuation and disclosure of long-term investments

1. When long-term investments are material to the financial statements, the auditor should
obtain sufficient appropriate audit evidence regarding their valuation and disclosure.

2. Audit procedures ordinarily include considering evidence as to whether the entity has the
ability to continue to hold the investments on a long-term basis and discussing with
management whether the entity will continue to hold the investments as long-term
investments and obtaining written representations to that effect.

3. Other procedures would ordinarily include considering related financial statements and other
information, such as market quotations, which provide an indication of value and comparing
such values to the carrying amount of the investments up to the date of the auditor’s report.

Segment information

1. When segment information is material to the financial statements, the auditor should
obtain sufficient appropriate audit evidence regarding its disclosure in accordance with the
applicable financial reporting framework.

2. The auditor considers segment information in relation to the financial statements taken as
a whole, and is not ordinarily required to apply auditing procedures that would be
necessary to express an opinion on the segment information standing alone.

3. Audit procedures regarding segment information ordinarily consist of analytical procedures

and other audit test appropriate in the circumstances.

4. The auditor would discuss with management the methods used in determining segment
information, and consider whether such methods are likely to result in disclosure in
accordance with GAAP and test the application of such methods.

PSA 505
EXTERNAL CONFIRMATIONS
1. External confirmation is the process of obtaining and evaluating audit evidence through a direct
communication from a third party in response to a request for information about a particular
item affecting assertions made by management in the financial statements.

Use of positive and negative external confirmations

2. A positive external confirmation request asks the respondent to reply to the auditor in all
cases either by indicating the respondent’s agreement with the given information, or by
asking the respondent to fill in the information.

3. A negative external confirmation request asks the respondent to reply only in the event
of disagreement with the information provided in the request.

4. Negative confirmation requests may be used to reduce the risk of material misstatement to
an acceptable level when:
The assessed risk of material misstatement is lower.
A large number of small balances are involved.
A substantial number of errors are not expected.
The auditor has no reason to believe that respondents will disregard these requests.

5. When performing confirmation procedures, the auditor should maintain control over the
process of selecting those to whom a request will be sent, the preparation and sending of
confirmation requests, and the responses to those requests.

6. The auditor should perform alternative procedures where no response is received to a positive
external confirmation request. The alternative audit procedures should be such as to provide
the evidence the evidence about the financial statement assertions that the confirmation
request was intended to provide.

21

Credits to the rightful owner

 lOMoARcPSD|4363002

7. When the auditor forms a conclusion that the confirmation process and alternative procedures
have not provided sufficient appropriate audit evidence regarding an assertion, the auditor
should undertake additional procedures to obtain sufficient audit evidence.

8. The auditor should evaluate whether the results of the external confirmation process
together with the results from any other procedures performed, provide sufficient
appropriate audit evidence regarding the assertion being audited.

PSA 230 (Revised)

AUDIT DOCUMENTATION
1. The auditor should prepare, on a timely basis, audit documentation that provides:
a sufficient and appropriate record of the basis for the auditor’s report; and
evidence that the audit was performed in accordance with PSAs and applicable legal
and regulatory requirements
2. “Audit documentation” means the record of audit procedures performed, relevant audit
evidence obtained, and conclusions the auditor reached (terms such as “working papers”
or “work papers” are also sometimes used).
3. “experience auditor” means an individual (whether internal or external to the firm) who
has reasonable understanding of
Audit processes;
PSAs and applicable legal and regulatory requirements
The business environment in which the entity operates; and
Auditing and financial reporting issues relevant to the entity’s industry
4. Audit documentation may be recorded on paper or on electronic or other media
5. The auditor should prepare the audit documentation so as to enable an experiences
auditor, having no precious connection with the audit, to understand:
the nature, timing , and extent of the audit procedures performed to comply with
PSAs and applicable legal and regulatory requirements
the results of the audit procedures and the audit evidence obtained; and
significant matters arising during the audit and the conclusions reached thereon
6. in documenting the nature, timing and extent of audit procedures performed, the auditor
should record the identifying characteristics of the specific items or matters beig tested
7. the auditor should document discussions of significant matters with management and others
on a timely basis
8. where, in exceptional circumstances, the auditor judges it necessary to depart from a basic
principle or an essential procedure that is relevant in the circumstances of the audit, the
auditor should document how the alternative audit procedures performed achieved the
objective of the audit, and, unless otherwise clear, the reasons for the departure
9. the auditor should record:
who performed the audit work and the date such work was completed
who reviewed the audit work performed and the date and extent of such review

Assembly of the final audit file

10. The auditor should complete the assembly of the final audit file on a timely basis after the date of
the auditor’s report. As PSQC 1 indicates, 60 days after the date of the auditor’s report is
ordinarily an appropriate time limit within which to complete the assembly of the final audit file

22

Credits to the rightful owner

 lOMoARcPSD|4363002

CPA REVIEW SCHOOL OF THE PHILIPPINES

Manila

AUDITING THEORY CPA REVIEW

PSA 240 (REVISED 2006) THE AUDITOR’S RESPONSIBILITY TO CONSIDER FRAUD IN AN

AUDIT OF FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

PSA 250 CONSIDERATIONS OF LAWS AND REGULATIONS IN AN AUDIT OF

FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

PSA 260 COMMUNICATIONS OF AUDIT MATTERS WITH THOSE CHARGED

WITH GOVERNANCE

PSA 240 (REVISED 2006)

THE AUDITOR’S RESPONSIBILITY TO CONSIDER FRAUD IN AN AUDIT OF FINANCIALSTATEMENTS

FRAUD refers to an intentional act by one party or more individuals among management, those
charged with governance, employees or third parties, involving the use of deception to obtain an
unjust or illegal advantage

Fraud involves:
Incentive or pressure to commit fraud
A perceived opportunity to act or to do
so Some rationalization of the act

Management fraud - fraud involving one or more members of management or those charged with
governance
Employee fraud - fraud involving only employees of the entity
(In either case, there may be collusion within the entity or with third parties outside of the
entity) TWO TYPES OF FRAUD
1. FRAUDULENT FINANCIAL REPORTING
Involves intentional misstatements including omissions of amounts or disclosures
in financial statements to deceive financial statement users
often involves management override of controls that otherwise may appear to
be operating effectively
can be caused by the efforts of management to manage earnings in order to
deceive financial statements users by influencing their perceptions as to the
entity’s performance and profitability
may be accomplished by the following
▪ manipulation, falsification (including forgery), or alteration of
accounting records or supporting documentation from which
the financial statements are prepared
▪ misrepresentation in, or intentional omission from, the financial
statements of events, transactions or other significant information
▪ intentional misapplication of accounting principles relating to
amounts, classifications, manner of presentation, or disclosure

2. MISAPPROPRIATION OF ASSETS
Involves the theft of an entity’s assets and is often perpetrated by employees
in relatively small and immaterial amounts
Can also involve management who are usually more able to disguise or
conceal misappropriations in ways that are difficult to detect
Often accompanied by false or misleading records or documents in order to conceal the
fact that the aspects are missing or have been pledged without proper authorization
Can be accompanied in a variety of ways including:
o Embezzling receipts
o Stealing physical assets or intellectual property
o Causing an entity to pay for the goods and services not received
o Using an entity’s assets for personal use

23

Credits to the rightful owner

 lOMoARcPSD|4363002

Responsibilities of Those charged with Governance and of Management

1. The primary responsibility for the prevention and detection of fraud rests with both
those charged with governance of the entity and with management
2. It is important management, with the oversight of those charged with governance, place a
strong emphasis on fraud prevention, which may reduce opportunities for fraud to take
place, and fraud deterrence, which could persuade in individuals not to commit fraud
because of the likelihood detection and punishment
3. It is the responsibility of those charged with governance of the entity to ensure , through
oversight of management, that the entity establishes and maintains internal control to
provide reasonable assurance with regard to reliability of financial reporting, effectiveness
and efficiency of operations and compliance with applicable law and regulations
4. It is the responsibility of management, with oversight from those charged with governance, to
establish a control environment and maintain policies and procedures to assist in achieving the
objective ensuring, as far as possible, the orderly and efficient conduct of the entity’s business

Inherent limitations of an Audit in the context of Fraud

1. Owing to inherent limitations of an audit, there is an unavoidable risk that some
material misstatements of the financial statements will not be detected, even though
the audit is properly planned and performed in accordance with PSAs
2. The risk of not detecting a material misstatement resulting from fraud is higher than the risk
of not detecting a material misstatement resulting from error because fraud may involve
sophisticated and carefully organized schemes designed to conceal it, such as:
Forgery
Deliberate failure to record transactions
Intentional misrepresentation being made to the auditor

3. The risk of the auditor not detecting a material misstatement resulting from management fraud is
greater than for employee fraud, because management is frequently in a position to directly or
indirectly manipulate accounting records and present fraudulent financial information
4. The subsequent discovery of a material misstatement of the financial statements resulting
from fraud does not, in and of itself, indicate a failure to comply with PSAs

Responsibilities of the auditor for detecting material misstatements due to fraud

1. An auditor conducting an audit in accordance with PSAs obtains reasonable assurance that
the financial statements taken as a whole are free from material misstatement, whether
caused by fraud or error
2. An auditor cannot obtain absolute assurance that material misstatements in the
financial statement will be detected because of such factors as of the following:
use of judgment
use of testing
inherent limitations of internal control
the fact that much of the audit evidence available to the auditor is
persuasive rather than conclusive in nature
3. The auditor should maintain an attitude of professional skepticism throughput the audit,
recognizing the possibility that a material misstatement due to fraud could exist,
notwithstanding the auditor’s past experience with the entity about the honesty and integrity
of management and those charged with governance
4. Members of the engagement team should discuss the susceptibility of the entity’s
financial statements to material misstatement due to fraud
5. Risk assessment procedures
The auditor should perform risk assessment procedures to obtain an understanding
of the entity and its environment, including its internal control. As part of this work,
the auditor performs the following procedures to obtain information that is used to
identify the risks of material misstatements due to fraud:
1. Makes inquiries of management, of those charged with governance, and of others
within the entity as appropriate and obtains an understanding of how those
charged with governance exercise oversight of management’s processes for
identifying and responding to the risks of fraud and he internal control that
management has established to mitigate these risks
2. Considers whether one or more fraud risk factors are present
3. Considers any unusual or unexpected relationships that have been identified
in performing analytical procedures
4. Considers other information that may be helpful in identifying the risks of
material misstatement due to fraud.

24

Credits to the rightful owner

 lOMoARcPSD|4363002

Responses to the risks of material misstatement due to fraud

1. The auditor should determine overall responses to address he assessed risks of material
misstatement due to fraud at the financial statement level and should design and perform
further audit procedures whose nature, timing and extent are responsive to the assessed risks
at the assertion level
2. In determining overall responses to address the risks of material misstatement due to fraud
at the financial statement level the auditor should:
Consider the assignment and supervision of personnel
Consider the accounting policies used by the entity; and
Incorporate an element of unpredictability in the selection of the nature,
timing and extent of audit procedures
3. Audit procedures responsive to risks of material misstatement due to fraud at the assertion
level
The auditor’s responses may include changing the nature, timing, and extent of
audit procedures in the following ways:
a. The nature of audit procedures to be performed may need to be changed to
obtain audit evidence that is more reliable and relevant to obtain additional
corroborative information
b. The timing of substantive procedures may need to be modified. The auditor may
conclude that performing substantive testing at or near the period end better
addresses an assessed risk of material misstatement due to fraud
c. The extent of the procedures applied reflects the assessment of the risks of
material misstatement due to fraud. For example, increasing sample sizes or
performing analytical procedures at a more detailed level may be appropriate
4. To respond to the risk of management override of controls, the auditor should design
and perform audit procedures to:
a. Test the appropriateness of journal entries recorded in the general ledger and
other adjustments made in the preparation of the financial statements
b. Review accounting estimates for biases that could result to material misstatement
due to fraud
c. Obtain an understanding of the business rationale of significant transactions that the
auditor become aware of that are outside the normal course of the business for the
entity, or that otherwise appear to be unusual given the auditor’s understanding of
the entity and its environment

Evaluation of audit evidences

1. The auditor should consider whether analytical procedures that are performed at or near
the end of audit when forming an overall conclusion as to whether the financial
statements as a whole are consistent with auditor’s knowledge of the business indicate a
previously unrecognized risk of material misstatement due to fraud
2. When the auditor identifies the misstatement, the auditor should consider whether such
a misstatement may be indicative of fraud and if there is such an indication the auditor
should consider the implications of the misstatement in relation to other aspects of the
audit, particularly the reliability of management representations
3. When the auditor confirms that, or is unable to conclude whether, the financial statements
are materially misstated as a result of fraud, the auditor should consider the implications for
the audit

Management representations
The auditor should obtain written representations from management that:
a. It acknowledges its responsibility for the design and implementation of internal control
to prevent and detect fraud
b. It has disclosed to the auditor the results of its assessment of the risk that the
financial statements may be materially misstated as a result of fraud
c. It has disclosed to the auditor its knowledge of fraud or suspected fraud affecting the
entity involving:
i. Management
ii. Employees who have significant roles in internal control
iii. Others where the fraud could have a material effect on the financial
statements and
d. It has disclosed to the auditor its knowledge of any allegations of fraud, or
suspected fraud, affecting the entity’s financial statements communicated by the
employees, former employees, analysts, regulators or others

25

Credits to the rightful owner

 lOMoARcPSD|4363002

Communication with management and those charged with governance

1. If the auditor has identified a fraud or has obtained information that indicates that a fraud
may exist, the auditor should communicate these matters as soon as practicable to the
appropriate level of management
2. If the auditor has identified fraud involving management, employers who have significant
roles in internal control, or others where the fraud results in a material misstatement in the
financial statements, the auditor considers seeking legal advice to assist in the
determination of the appropriate course of action
3. If the integrity or honesty of management or those charged with governance is doubted, the
auditor considers seeking legal advice to assist in the determination of the appropriate course
of action
4. The auditor should make those charged with governance and management aware, as soon
as practicable, and at the appropriate level of responsibility, of material weaknesses in the
design or implementation of internal control to prevent and detect fraud which may have
come to the auditor’s attention
5. The auditor’s professional duty to maintain the confidentiality of client information
may preclude reporting fraud to a party outside the client the entity. However, the
duty of confidentiality may be overridden by regulatory requirements

Auditor unable to continue the engagement

1. If , as a result of a misstatement resulting from fraud or suspected fraud, the auditor
encounters exceptional circumstances that bring into question the auditor’s ability to
continue performing audit, the auditor should:
a. Consider the professional and legal responsibilities applicable in the circumstances,
including whether there is a requirement for the auditor to report to the person or
persons who made the audit appointment or, I some cases, to regulatory authorities
b. Consider the possibility of withdrawing from the engagement; and
c. If the auditor withdraws:
i. Discuss the appropriate level of management and those charged with
governance the auditor’s withdrawal from the engagement and the reasons
for the withdrawal; and
ii. Consider whether there is a professional or legal requirement to report to
the person or persons who made the audit appointment or, in some cases,
to regulatory authorities, the auditor’s withdrawal from the engagement
and the reasons for the withdrawal

Documentation
1. The documentation of the auditor’s understanding of the entity and its environment and
the auditor’s assessment of the risks of material misstatement should include:
a. The significant decisions reached during the discussion among the
engagement team regarding the susceptibility of the entity’s financial
statements to material misstatement due to fraud
b. The identified and assessed risks of material misstatement due to fraud at
the financial statement level and at the assertion level
2. The documentation of the auditor’s responses to the assessed risks of material
misstatement should include:
a. The overall responses to the assessed risks of material misstatement due to fraud
at the financial statement level and the nature, timing and extent of audit
procedure, and the linkage of those procedures with the assessed risks of material
misstatement due to fraud at the assertion level
b. The results of the audit procedures, including those designed to address the risk
of management override of controls
3. The auditor should document the communications about fraud made to management,
those charged with governance, regulators and others
4. When the auditor has concluded that the presumption that there is a risk of material
misstatement due to fraud related to revenue recognition is not applicable in the circumstances
of the engagement, the auditor should document the reasons for that conclusion

26

Credits to the rightful owner

 lOMoARcPSD|4363002

PSA 250
CONSIDERATION OF LAWS AND REGULATIONS IN AN AUDIT OF FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
1. “Noncompliance” as used in PSA 250 refers to acts of omission or commission by he entity
being audited, either intentional and unintentional, which are contrary to the prevailing laws
and regulations
2. Noncompliance does not include personal misconduct (unrelated to the business activities
of the entity) by the entity’s management or employees
3. When planning and performing audit procedures and in evaluating and reporting the results
thereof, the auditor should recognize that noncompliance by the entity with laws and
regulation may materially affect the financial statements

Responsibility of management for the compliance with laws and regulations

1. It is management’s responsibility to ensure that the entity’s operations conducted in
accordance with laws and regulations
2. The responsibility for the prevention and detection of noncompliance rests with management
3. The following policies and procedures, among others, may assist management in discharging
its responsibilities for the prevention and detection of noncompliance:
Monitoring legal requirements and ensuring that operating procedures are designed
to meet these requirements
Instituting and operating appropriate systems of internal control
Developing, publicizing and following a Code of Conduct
Ensuring employees are properly trained and understand the Code of Conduct
Monitoring compliance with the Code of Conduct and acting appropriately to
discipline employees who fail to comply with it
Engaging legal advisors to assist in monitoring legal requirements
Maintaining a register of significant laws with which the entity has to comply within
its particular industry and a record of complaints

The auditor’s consideration of compliance with laws and regulations

1. The auditor is not, and cannot be held responsible for preventing noncompliance
2. The auditor should plan and perform the audit with an attitude of professional
skepticism recognizing that the audit may reveal conditions or events that would lead
to questioning whether an entity is complying with laws and regulations
3. In order t plan the audit, the auditor should a general understanding of the legal and
regulatory framework applicable to the entity and the industry and how the entity is
complying wih that framework
4. After obtaining the general understanding, the auditor should perform procedures to
help identify instances of noncompliance with those laws and regulations where non
compliance should be considered when preparing financial statements specifically:
a. Inquiring of management as to whether the entity is in compliance with such
laws and regulations
b. On receipt of an inquiry from the proposed auditor, the existing auditor should
advise whether there are any professional reasons why the proposed auditor
should not accept the appointment. If permission from the client to discuss its
affairs with the proposed auditor of denied by the client, the fact should be
disclosed to the propose auditor

27

Credits to the rightful owner

 lOMoARcPSD|4363002

CPA REVIEW SCHOOL OF THE PHILIPPINES

Manila

AUDITING THEORY CPA REVIEW

AUDIT SAMPLING
(BASED ON PSA 530: AUDIT SAMPLING AND OTHER SELECTIVE TESTING PROCEDURES)

Selecting items of testing to gather audit evidence

When designing audit procedures, the auditor should determine appropriate means of selecting
items for testing. The means available to the auditor are:
a. Selecting all items (100% examination)
b. Selecting specific items
c. Audit sampling

Selecting all items (100% examination)

Unlikely in the case of tests of control but more common for substantive
procedures May be appropriate when:
a. The population constitutes a small number of large value items
b. When both inherent risk and control risk are high and other means do
not provide sufficient appropriate audit evidence
c. When the repetitive nature of a calculation or other process performed by
a computer information system makes a 100% examination cost effective

Selecting specific items

The auditor may decide to select specific items from a population based on such factors as
knowledge of the client’s business, preliminary assessments of inherent and control risks,
and the characteristics of the population being tested
The judgmental selection of specific items is subject to nonsampling
risk Specific selected items may include:
▪ High value or key items
▪ All items over a certain amount
▪ Items to obtain information
▪ Items to test procedures
While an efficient means of gathering audit evidence, it does not constitute audit sampling.
The results of audit procedures applied to specific items selected cannot be projected to the
entire population

AUDIT SAMPLING
1. “Audit Sampling” involves the application of audit procedures to less than 100% of items with
an account balance or class of transactions
2. Sampling may be statistical or nonstatistical.
I. Statistical sampling means any approach t sampling that has the
following characteristics:
a. Random selection of a sample
b. Use of probability theory to evaluate sample results

II. Nonstatistical sampling is a sampling approach that does not

have characteristics (a) and (b).

Audit sampling plan refers to the procedures an auditor applies t accomplish a sampling application.
In aids an auditor I forming conclusions about one r more characteristics or either a particular class
of transactions or a particular account balances

1. ATTRIBUTE SAMPLING
Applicable to tests of control
Used to test an entity’s rate of deviation (also called rate of occurrence) from
a prescribed control procedure
2. VARIABLES SAMPLING
Applicable to substantive test
Most commonly used to test whether recorded account balances are fairly stated

28

Credits to the rightful owner

 lOMoARcPSD|4363002

SAMPLING RISK
1. It arises from the possibility that the auditor’s conclusion, based on a sample may be
different from the conclusion reached if the entire population were subjected to the same
audit procedures
2. The confidence level (also called reliability level) is the mathematical complement of
the applicable sampling risk factor
3. It is to be measured and controlled. The auditor controls it by specifying the acceptable
level when developing the sampling design
4. For tests of control, it has the following aspects:
a. Risk of assessing control risk too low (Risk of Overreliance)
The risk that the auditor would conclude that the control risk is
lower than it actually is
It affects audit effectiveness and is more likely to lead to
an inappropriate audit opinion
b. Risk of assessing control risk too high (Risk of under reliance)
The risk that the auditor would conclude that control risk is higher
than actually is
It affects audit efficiency as it would lead to additional work to
establish that initial conclusions were incorrect
5. For substantive tests, it has the following aspects:
a. Risk of incorrect acceptance
The risk that the auditor would conclude that a material error
exists when in fact it does
It affects audit effectiveness and is more likely to lead to
an inappropriate audit opinion
b. Risk of incorrect rejection
The risk that the auditor would conclude that a material error
exists when in fact it does not
It affects audit effectiveness as it would lead to additional work
to establish that initial conclusions were incorrect
NONSAMPLING RISK
It arises from factors that cause the auditor to reach an erroneous conclusion for any reason not
related to the size of the sample. For example, most audit evidence is persuasive rather than
conclusive, the auditor might use inappropriate procedures, or the auditor might misinterpret
evidence and fail to recognize an error.

5 STEPS IN ATTRIBUTE SAMPLING PLAN

1. Define the objectives of the plan
2. Define the population
For example, if an auditor’s objective is to test controls designed to assure
that all shipped goods are invoiced, the population would be defined as all
sipping documents issued during the period not all sales invoices

3.Define the attribute and deviation conditions

An attribute s a characteristic of control. For example, the
supervisor’s signature of approval on a document. A deviation is the
absence of an attribute
4. Determine the sample size
The sample size is determined by considering the following factors:
a. Risk of assessing control risk too low
b. Tolerable deviation rate
c. Expected population deviation rate

Risk of assessing control risk too low

There is an inverse relationship between the risk and the sample size. The higher
the acceptable risk, the smaller the sample size
Because the risk of assessing control risk too low relates to the effectiveness of the
audit, it is kept at a relatively low level by the auditor

Tolerable deviation rate

This the maximum deviation rate that the auditor is willing to accept

29

Credits to the rightful owner

 lOMoARcPSD|4363002

The lower the rate of deviation that the auditor is willing to accept, the larger
the sample size needs to be

Expected population deviation rate (expected error)

The rate of deviation from the prescribed control procedure the auditor expects to
find in the population
The higher the rate of deviation the auditor expects, the larger the sample size needs to e
so as to be in a position o make a reasonable estimate of the actual rate of deviation
Factors relevant to the auditor’s consideration of the expected error rate include:
o The auditor’s understanding of the business (in particular, procedures
undertaken to obtain an understanding of the accounting and internal
control systems)
o Charges in the personnel or in the accounting and internal control
systems o The results of audit procedures applied in prior periods
o The results of other audit procedures

5. Determine the method of sample selections

Some commonly used methods are:
a. Random number sampling
Each item in the population has an equal chance and nonzero probability of selection
It is usually accomplished by generating random numbers from a random number
table or computer program and tracing them to associated documents or items in th
population
It is appropriate for both statistical and nonstatistical sampling
b. Systematic selection
The number of sampling units in the population is divided by the sample size to
give a sample interval, for example 50, and having determined the starting point
within the first 50, each 50th sampling unit is hereafter selected
Although the starting point may be determined haphazardly, the sample is more
likely to be truly random if it is determined by use of a computerized random
number generator or random number tables
When using systematic selection, the auditor would need to determine that
sampling interval corresponds with a particular pattern in the population

c. Block selection or cluster sampling

It involves selecting a block(s) of contiguous items from within the population
It cannot be ordinarily used in audit sampling because most populations are structured
such that items in sequence can be expected to have similar characteristics to each
other, but different characteristics from items elsewhere in the population
Although in some circumstances it may be an appropriate audit procedure to examine a
block of items, it would rarely be an appropriate sample selection technique when the
auditor intends to draw valid inferences about the entire population based on sample

d. Haphazard selection
The auditor selects a sample without following a structured technique
It is not appropriate when using statistical sampling

e. Stratification
This involves subdividing the population into subpopulations or strata, i.e., a group
of sampling units which have similar characteristics (often monetary value)
The strata must be explicitly defined so that each sampling unit can belong to only
one stratum
This method enables the auditor to direct his efforts towards the items he
considers would potentially contain the greater monetary error

6. Perform sampling plan

7. Evaluate and document
results These include:
a. Determining the sample deviation rate
Sample deviation rate = number of deviations observed
Sample size
b. Determining the maximum population deviation rate (achieved upper deviation limit)
and the allowance for sampling risk (achieved precision)

30

Credits to the rightful owner

 lOMoARcPSD|4363002

The maximum deviation rate is based on the sample size and the number of
deviations discovered. There are standard tables that yield maximum
population deviation rates at specified risks of assessing control risk too low
Allowance for sampling risk = Maximum Deviation Rate – Sample Deviation Rate
c. Considering qualitative information
The auditor considers each of the deviation’s nature, importance, and probable cause
d. Reaching an overall conclusion
In assessing control risk, the auditor considers all available quantitative and
qualitative information

COMMONLY USED ATTRIBUTES SAMPLING TECHNIQUES

1. ATTRIBUTE ESTIMATION SAMPLING
A statistical sampling plan for tests of controls
Appropriate when an auditor wishes to estimate a true but unknown
population deviation rate
Uses a fixed sampling plan, i.e., the auditor tests a single sample
2. SEQUENTIAL SAMPLING (ALSO CALLED STOP-OR-GO SAMPLING)
The sampling plan is performed in several steps
Following each step, the auditor decides whether to stop or to go on to the next
step Appropriate when the auditor expects zero or very few deviations
3. DISCOVERY SAMPLING
Appropriate when the expected deviation rate is near zero and when the auditor’s
objective is to find at least one deviation in a sample if the actual population deviation
rate exceeds or equals a predetermined critical rate (tolerable deviation rate)

STEPS IN A VARIABLE SAMPLING PLAN

1. Determine the objectives of the test
The auditor’s objective is to test the reasonableness of a record account balance,
called hypothesis testing.
2. Define the population and sampling unit
3. Choose an audit sampling technique
a. Statistical vs. Nonstatistical
b. Classical variables sampling vs. Probability-proportional-to-size sampling
4. Determine the sample size
The auditor considers the following:
a. Variation within the population
Sample size varies in the same direction as the variation in population amounts.
As population variation increases, so does the sample size
An estimate of population variation is made by determining a population
standard deviation
b. Acceptable risk of incorrect rejection
c. Acceptable risk of incorrect acceptance
d. Tolerable error – the maximum monetary error that may exist in an account
balance without causing the financial statements to be materially misstated

5. Determine the method of sample selection

6. Perform the sampling plan
7. Evaluate the sample results
The following procedures are performed:
a. Projecting the same error to the population
b. Considering sampling risk
c. Considering qualitative information
d. Reaching an overall conclusion

CLASSICAL VARIABLES SAMPLING TECHNIQUES

A. Mean-per-unit estimation
A classical variables sampling technique that projects the sample average to the
population by multiplying the sample average by the number of items in the population

B. Difference estimation
It is a classical variables sampling technique that uses the average difference
between audited amounts and individual recorded amounts to estimate the total audited
amount of a population and an allowance for sampling risk.

31

Credits to the rightful owner

 lOMoARcPSD|4363002

C. Ratio estimation
A classical variables sampling technique that uses the ratio of audited amounts
to recorded amount in the sample to estimate the total amount of the population and
an allowance for sampling risk

Conditions for using difference and ration estimation

1. Each population item must have a recorded book value
2. Total population book value must be known
3. Expected differences between audited and recorded book values must not be too rare

Choosing between difference and ratio estimation

Ratio estimation is more appropriate when he differences are nearly proportional to book
values.
Difference estimation is more appropriate when there is little or n relationship between
the absolute amounts of the differences and the book values.

PROBABILITY-PROPROTIONAL-TO-SIZE SAMPLING (PPS)

PPS uses a peso as the sampling unit
PPS sampling gives each individual peso in the population an equal chance of selection
PPS is only useful for TESTS OF OVERSTATEMENTS (e.g., assets) since the sample
selection method dictates that the larger the transaction or amount, the more likely
that it will be selected.
PPS is inappropriate for testing liabilities because understatement is the primary
audit consideration

32

Credits to the rightful owner

 lOMoARcPSD|4363002

EXAMPLES OF FACTORS INFLUENCING SAMPLE SIZE FOR TESTS OF

CONTROL (PSA 530, APPENDIX I)

Factor Effect on Sample size

An increase in the auditor’s intended reliance on accounting and
Internal control systems increase

An increase in the rate of deviation from the prescribed control

Procedure that the auditor is willing to accept
(Tolerable error) decrease

An increase in the rate of deviation from the prescribes control

Procedure that the auditor expects to find in the population
(Expected error) increase

An increase in the auditor’s required confidence level (or conversely

A decrease in the risk that the auditor will conclude that the auditor will
Conclude that the control risk is lower than the actual control risk in the
Population) increase

An increase in number of sampling units in the population negligible effect

EXAMPLES OF FACTORS INFLUENCING SAMPLE SIZE FOR SUBSTANTIVE

PROCEDURES (PSA 530, APPENDIX II)

Factor Effect on Sample size

An increase in the auditor’s assessment of inherent risk increase

An increase in the auditor’s assessment of control risk increase

An increase in the use of other substantive procedures

Directed at the same financial statement assertion decrease

An increase in the auditor’s required confidence level (or

Conversely, a decrease in the risk that the auditors will conclude that
A material error does not exist, when in fact it does exist) increase

An increase in the amount of error the auditor expects to find in

The population (tolerable error) decrease

An increase in the amount of error the auditor expects to find in the

Population (expected error) increase

Stratification of the population when appropriate decrease

The number of sampling units in the population negligible effect

33

Credits to the rightful owner

 lOMoARcPSD|4363002

CPA REVIEW SCHOOL OF THE PHILIPPINES

Manila

AUDITING THEORY CPA REVIEW

AUDITING IN A CIS (IT) ENVIRONMENT

1. A CIS environment exists when a computer of any type or size is involved in the processing by
the entity of financial information of significance to the audit, whether the computer is
operated by the entity or by a third party
2. The overall objective and scope of an audit does not change in a CIS environment
3. A CIS environment may affect:
a. The procedures followed in obtaining a sufficient understanding of the
accounting and internal control systems
b. The consideration of the inherent and control risk
c. The design and performance of tests of controls and substantive procedures
4. The auditor should have sufficient knowledge of the CIS to plan, direct, and review the
work performed
5. If specialized skills are needed, the auditor would seek the assistance of a professional
possessing such skills, who may be either on the auditor’s staff or an outside professionals
6. In planning the portions of the audit which may be affected by the client’s CIS environment,
the auditor should obtain an understanding of the significance and complexity of the CIS
activities and the availability of data for use in the audit
7. When the CIS are significant, the auditor should also obtain an understanding of the CIS
environment and whether it may influence the assessment of inherent and control risks
8. The auditor should consider the CIS environment in designing audit procedures to reduce audit
risk to an acceptably low level. The auditor can use either manual audit procedures, computer-
assisted audit techniques, or a combination of both to obtain sufficient evidential matter

RISK ASSESSMENTS AND INTERNAL CONTROL:

CIS CHARACTERISTICS AND CONSIDERATION

Organizational Structure
Characteristics of a CIS organizational structure includes:
a. Concentration of functions and knowledge
Although most systems employing CIS methods will include certain manual
operations, generally the number of persons involved in the processing of financial information is
significantly reduced.
b. Concentration of programs and data
Transaction and master file data are often concentrated, usually in machine-
readable form, either in one computer installation located centrally or in a number of installations
distributed throughout the entity.

Nature of Processing
The use of computers may result in the design of systems that provide less visible evidence
than those using manual procedures. In addition, these systems may be accessible by a larger number
of persons.

System characteristics that may result from the nature of CIS processing include:
a. Absence of input documents
Data may be entered directly into the computer system without supporting document
In some on-line transaction systems, written evidence of individual data entry
authorization (e.g., approval for order entry) may be replaced by other procedures, such
as authorization controls contained in computer programs (e.g., credit limit approval)
b. Lack of visible audit trail
The transaction trail may be partly in machine -readable form and may exist only
for a limited period of time (e.g., audit logs may be set to overwrite themselves after a period of
time or when the allocated disk space is consumed)
c. Lack of visible output
Certain transactions or results of processing may not be printed or only summary data
may be printed

d. Ease of access to data and computer programs

34

Credits to the rightful owner

 lOMoARcPSD|4363002

Data and computer programs may be assessed and altered at the computer or
through the use of computer equipment at remote locations. Therefore, in the absence of
appropriate controls, there is an increased potential for unauthorized access to, and alteration of,
data and programs by persons inside or outside the entity

Design and procedural aspects

The development of CIS will generally result n design and procedural characteristics that
are different from those found in manual systems. These different design and procedural aspects
of CIS include:
a. Consistency of performance
CIS perform functions exactly as programmed and are potentially more reliable than
annual systems, provided that all transactions types and conditions that could occur are anticipated
and incorporated into the system. On the other hand, a computer program that is not correctly
programmed and tested may consistently process transactions or other data erroneously
b. Programmed control procedures
The nature of computer processing allows the design of internal control procedures
in computer programs
c. Single transaction update of multiple or data base computer files
A single input t the accounting system may automatically update all records
associated with the transaction
d. Systems generated transactions
Certain transactions may be initiated by the CIS itself without the need for an input
document
e. Vulnerability of data and program storage media
Large volumes of data and the computer programs used to process such data may be
stored on portable or fixed storage media, such as magnetic disks and tapes. These media are
vulnerable to theft, loss, or intentional or accidental destruction.

INTERNAL CONTROLS IN A CIS ENVIRONMENT

GENERAL CIS CONTROLS – to establish a framework of overall control over the CIS activities and to
provide a reasonable level of assurance that the overall objectives of internal control are achieved

General CIS controls may include:

a. Organization and management controls – designed to define the strategic direction
and establish an organizational framework over CIS activities, including:
Strategic information technology
plan CIS policies and procedures
Segregation of incompatible functions
Monitoring of CIS activities performed by third party consultants
b. Development and maintenance controls – designed to provide reasonable assurance that
systems are developed or acquired, implemented and maintained in an authorized and
efficient manner. They also typically are designed to establish control over:
Project initiation, requirements definition, systems design, testing, data conversion,
go-live decision, migration to production environment, documentation of new or
revised systems, and user training
Acquisition and implementation of off-the-shelf
packages Request for changes to the existing systems
Acquisition, implementation, and maintenance of system software
c. Delivery and support controls – designed to control the delivery of CIS services and include:
Establishment of service level agreements against which CIS services are
measured Performance and capacity management controls
Disaster recovery/contingency planning, training, and file backup
Computer operations
controls Systems security
Physical and environment controls
d. Monitoring controls – designed to ensure that CIS controls are working effectively as
planned. These include:
Monitoring of key CIS performance
indicators Internal external CIS audits

CIS APPLICATION CONTROLS – to establish specific control procedures over the application systems
in order to provide reasonable assurance that all transactions are authorized, recorded and are
processed completely, accurately and on a timely basis. CIS application controls include:

35

Credits to the rightful owner

 lOMoARcPSD|4363002

a. Controls over Input – designed to provide reasonable assurance that:

Transactions are properly authorized before being processed by the computer
Transactions are accurately converted into machine readable form and recorded in
the computer data files
Transactions are not lost, added, duplicated or improperly changed
Incorrect transactions are rejected, corrected and, if necessary, resubmitted on a
timely basis.
b. Controls over processing and computer data files – designed to provide reasonable
assurance that:
Transactions, including system generated transactions, re properly processed by
the computer
Transactions are not lost, added, duplicated or improperly changed
Processing errors (i.e., rejected data and incorrect transactions) are identified
and corrected on a timely basis
c. Controls over output – designed to provide reasonable assurance that:
Results of processing are accurate
Access to output is restricted to authorized personnel on a timely basis
Output is provided to appropriate authorized personnel on a timely basis

Review of general CIS controls

General CIS controls that relate to some or all applications are typically interdependent
controls in that their operation is often essential to the effectiveness of CIS application controls.
Accordingly, it may be more efficient to review the design of the general controls before reviewing
the application controls.

Review of CIS application controls

CIS application controls which the auditor may wish to test include:
a. Manual controls exercised by the user
b. Controls over system output
c. Programmed control procedures

CIS ENVIRONMENTS – STAND-ALONE PERSONAL COMPUTERS

1. A personal computer (PC) can be used in various configurations. These include:
a. A stand-alone workstation operated by a single user or a number of users
at different times;
b. A workstation which part of a Local Area Network (LAN) of PCs; and
c. A workstation connected to a server
2. In a stand-alone PC environment, it may not be practicable or cost-effective for management
to implement sufficient controls to reduce the risks of undetected error to a minimum level
3. After obtaining the understanding of the accounting system and control environment, the
auditor may find it more cost-effective not to make a further review of general controls or
application controls, but concentrate audit efforts on substantive procedures.

CIS ENVIRONMENTS – ON-LINE COMPUTER SYSTEMS

1. On-line computer systems are computer systems that enable users to access data and
programs directly through terminal devices
2. On-line systems allow users to directly initiate various functions such as:
a. Entering transactions
b. Making inquiries
c. Requesting reports
d. Updating master files
e. Electronic commerce activities
3. Types of terminals used in on-line
systems: A. General purpose terminals
1. Basic keyboard and screen
2. Intelligent terminal
3. PCs
B. Special purpose terminals
1. Point-of-sale devices
2. Automated teller machines (ATM)
5. Types of on-line computer systems:
a. On-line/ real time processing

36

Credits to the rightful owner

 lOMoARcPSD|4363002

Individual transactions are entered at terminal devices, validated, and used

to update related computer files immediately.
b. On-line/batch processing
Individual transactions are entered at a terminal device, subjected to
certain validation checks, and added to a transaction file that contains other transactions entered
during the period. Later, during a subsequent processing cycle, the transaction file may be
validated further and then used to update relevant master file.
c. On-line/Memo update (and subsequent Processing)

Combines in-line/ real time and on-line/ batch processing

Individual transactions immediately update a memo file containing
information that has been extracted from the most recent version
of the master file. Inquiries are made from this memo file
These same transactions are added to a transaction file for subsequent
validation and updating of the master file on a batch basis
d. On-line/ inquiry
Restricts users at terminal devices to making inquiries of master file
Master files are updated by other systems, usually on a batch basis
e. On-line downloading/ uploading processing
On-line downloading refers to the transfer of data from a master file
to an intelligent terminal device for further processing by a user

NETWORK ENVIRONMENT
1. A network environment is a communication system that enables computer users to share
computer equipment, application software, data, and voice and video transmissions
2. A file server is a computer with an operating system that allows multiple users in a network
to access software applications and data files
3. Basic types of networks
a. Local area network (LAN)
b. Wide area network (WAN)
c. metropolitan area network (MAN)

CIS ENVIRONMENTS – DATABASE SYSTEMS

1. DATABASE – a collection of data that is shared and used by many different users for
different purposes
2. Two components of database systems:
a. Database
b. Database management system (DBMS) – software that creates, maintains,
and operates the database
3. Characteristics of database systems:
a. Data sharing
b. Data independence

TERMS USED IN CIS ENVIRONMENTS

HARDWARE
1. COMPUTER HARDWARE – consists of the configuration of physical electronic equipment
2. CONSOLE – a special CRT (Cathode Ray Tube) used for communication between the
operator and the computer.
3. PERIPHERAL EQUIPMENT – all non-CPU hardware that may be placed under the control of
the processor. This consists of input, storage, output, and communication devices
4. CONTROLLERS – units designed to operate (control) specific input/output devices
5. CHANNELS – units designed to handle the transfer of data into or out of primary
storage (memory)
6. BUFFER MEMORY (BUFFER) – temporary storage unit used to hold data during
input/output operations
7. OFF-LINE – peripheral equipment not in direct communication with the CPU
8. ON-LINE – peripheral equipment in direct communication with, and under the control of the
CPU
9. INPUT DEVICES – provides a means of transferring data into CPU storage
a. Magnetic tape reader – capable of sensing information recorded as magnetized
spots on magnetic tape. It is also used as an output device and storage medium.
b. Magnetic ink character reader( MICR) – reads characters by scanning
temporarily magnetized characters using magnetic ink

37

Credits to the rightful owner

 lOMoARcPSD|4363002

c. Optical character recognition (OCR) – reads characters directly from

documents based on their shapes and positions on the source document
d. Cathode ray tube (CRT) – a typewriter-like device that decodes keystrokes
into electronic impulses
e. Key-to-tape and Key-to-disk – systems in which input data can be entered
directly onto magnetic tape, magnetic disk, or floppy disk through CRT
10. STORAGE DEVICES – devices which store data that can be subsequently used by the CPU
a. Random access – data can be accessed directly regardless of how it is
physically stored (e.g., magnetic disk)
b. Sequential access – data must be processed in the order in which it is
physically stored (e.g., magnetic tape)
11. OUTPUT DEVICES – produce readable data or machine-readable data when further processing
is required. Examples are CRT, printer, and CRT COM (Computer output to Micro film)
12. TERMINALS – CRT devices or microcomputers used for input/output (communication) with the
CPU
13. POINT-OF-SALE DEVICES – a terminal connected to a computer. It takes the place of a cash
register or similar devices which allows instant recording and is capable of keeping
perpetual inventory
14. MODEM – a device for interfacing communications equipment within communication networks

Software consists of computer programs which instruct the computer hardware to perform the
desired processing.

Types of computer programs

1. OPERATING SYSTEM – controls the functioning of the CPU and its peripheral equipment.
Several different operating systems allow a single configuration of hardware to function in
the following modes:
a. MULTIPROGRAMMING – the operating system processes a program until an
input/output operation is required. Since input or output can be handled by
peripheral devices, such as channels and controllers, the CPU can begin
executing another program’s instructions. Several programs appear to be
concurrently processing
b. MULTIPROCESSING – multiple CPUs process data while sharing peripheral
devices, allowing two or more programs to be process simultaneously
c. VIRTUAL STORAGE – the operating system separates user programs into
segment pages automatically. It appears as though there is unlimited memory
available for programs, even though the program is still confined to a physical
segment of memory.
2. UTILITY PROGRAM – performs a commonly required process, such as storing and merging
3. APPLICATION PROGRAM – performs the desired processing tasks (e.g., payroll preparation)
4. SOURCE PROGRAM – written by a programmer in a source language (e.g., COBOL) that will
be converted into an object program
5. OBJECT PROGRAM – converted source program that was changed using a complier to
create a set of machine-readable instructions
6. COMPILER – converts a source program to a machine language object program
7. INTERPRETER – converts each source code instruction to object code each time it is executed
8. DATABASE MANAGEMENT SYSTEM (DBMS) – a software package for the purpose of
creating, accessing, and maintaining a database
9. TELECOMMUNICATIONS MONITOR PROGRAM – provides edit capabilities and file
maintenance to users, monitors on-line terminals, and handles input to application programs

ELECTRONIC DATA INTERCHANGE (EDI) – the electronic exchange of transactions, from one entity’s
computer to another entity’s computer through an electronic communications network. In electronic
fund transfer (EFT) Systems, for example, electronic transactions replace checks as a mean of payment.
EDI controls include:
a. Authentication – controls must exist over the origin, proper submission, and proper
delivery of EDI communications to ensure that the EDI messages are accurately sent and
received to and from authorized customers and suppliers.
b. Encryption – involves conversion of plain text data to cipher text data to make EDI
messages unreadable to unauthorized persons
c. VAN controls – a value added network (VAN) is a computer service organization that
provides network, storage, and forwarding (mailbox) services for EDI messages
AUDIT APPROACHES

38

Credits to the rightful owner

 lOMoARcPSD|4363002

1. Auditing around the computer – the auditor ignores or bypasses the computer
processing function of an entity’s EDP system
2. Auditing with the computer – the computer is used as an audit tool
3. Auditing through the computer – the auditor enters the client’s system and examines
directly the computer and its system and application software

COMPUTER ASSISTED AUDIT TECHNIQUES FOR TESTS OF CONTROLS

I. Program analysis – techniques that allow the auditor to gain an understanding of the
client’s program
1. Code review – involves actual analysis of the logic of the program’s
processing routines
2. Comparison programs – programs that allow the auditor to compare
computerized files
3. Flowcharting software – used to produce a flowchart of a program’s logic and
may be used both in mainframe and microcomputer environments
4. Program tracing and mapping – program tracing is a technique in which instruction
executed is listed along with control information affecting that instruction. Program
mapping identifies sections of code which may be potential source of abuse
5. Snapshot – this technique “takes a picture” of the status of program execution,
intermediate results, or transaction data at specified processing points I the
program processing
II. Program testing – involves the use of auditor-controlled actual or simulated data
1. Historical audit techniques – test the audit computer controls at a point in time
a. Test data
A set of dummy transactions specifically designed to test the control
activities that management claims to have incorporated into
the processing programs
Shifts control over processing to the auditor by using the client’s
software to process auditor-prepared test data that includes both
valid and invalid conditions
It embedded controls are functioning properly, the client’s software
should detect all the exceptions planted in the auditor’s test data
Ineffective if the client does not use the software tested
b. Base case system evaluation (BCSE)
Develops test data that purports to test every possible condition that
an auditor expects a client’s software will confront
Provides an auditor with much more assurance than test data alone,
but expensive to develop and therefore cost-effective only in large
computer systems
c. Integrated test facility (ITF)
A variation of test of data whereby simulated data and actual data are run
simultaneously with the client’s program and computer results are compared with
auditor’s predetermined results
It provides assurance that the software tested is actually used to prepare financial reports
d. Parallel simulation
It involves of processing client’s live (actual) data utilizing an auditor’s generalized
audit software
If an entity’s control have been operating efficiently, the client’s software should generate
the same exceptions as the auditor’s software
It should be performed on a surprise basis, I possible
e. Controlled reprocessing
A variation of parallel simulation, it involves processing of actual client data through a copy
of the client’s application program
2. Continuous audit techniques – test the audit computer controls throughout a period.
a. Audit modules – programmed audit routines incorporated into an
application program that are designed to perform an audit function such
as a calculation, or logging activity
b. Systems control audit review files (SCARFs) – log that collect transaction
information for subsequent review and analysis by the auditor
c. Audit hooks – “exists” in an entity’s computer program that allows
an auditor to insert commands for audit processing
d. Transaction tagging – a transaction record is tagged and then
traced through critical control points in the information system

39

Credits to the rightful owner

 lOMoARcPSD|4363002

e. Extended records – this technique attaches additional audit data which

would not otherwise be saved to regular historic records and thereby
helps to provide a more complete audit trail
III. Review of operating system and other system software
1. JOB ACCOUNTING DATA/ OPERATING SYSTEM LOGS – these logs that track
particular functions, include reports of the resources use by the computer
system. The auditor may be able to use them to review the work processed, to
determined whether unauthorized applications were processed and to
determine that authorized applications were processed properly
2. LIBRARY MANAGEMENT SOFTWARE – this logs changes in programs,
program modules, job control language, and other processing activities
3. ACCESS CONTROL AND SECURITY SOFTWARE – this restricts access to computers
to authorized personnel through techniques such as only allowing certain users
with “read-only” access or through use of an encryption
COMPUTERIZED AUDIT TOOLS
1. AUDIT SOFTWARE – computer programs used to process data of audit significance from
the client’s accounting system
a. Package programs (generalized audit software)
1. Reading computer files
2. Selecting samples
3. Performing calculations
4. Creating data files
5. Printing reports in an auditor-specified format
b. Purpose written programs (special purpose or custom designed programs)
c. Utility programs – they are generally not designed for audit purposes
2. Electronic spreadsheets – contain a variety of predefined mathematical operations
and functions that can be applied to data entered into the cells of a spreadsheet
3. Automated work paper software – designed to generate a trial balance, lead schedules,
and other reports useful for the audit. The schedules and reports can be created once the
auditor has either manually entered or electronically imported through using the client’s
account balance information into the system
4. Text retrieval software – allow user to view any text that ia available in an electronic format.
The software program allows the user to browse through text files much as a user would
browse through books.
5. Database management systems
6. Public databases
7. Word processing software
Factors to consider in using CAAT
1. Degree of technical competence in CIS
2. Availability of CAAT and appropriate computer facilities
3. Impracticability of manual tests
4. Effectiveness and efficiency
5. Timing of tests

Controlling the CAAT application

Procedures to control the use of AUDIT SOFTWARE may include:
1. Participating in the design and testing of computer programs
2. Checking the coding of the program
3. Requesting the client’s CIS personnel to review the operating system instructions
4. Running the audit software on small test files before running them on main data files
5. Ensuring that the correct files were used
6. Obtaining evidence that the audit software functioned as planned
7. Establishing appropriate security measures to safeguard against manipulations of the
entity’s data files

Procedures to control the use of TEST DATA may include:

1. Controlling the sequence of submission of test data where it spans several processing cycles
2. Performing test runs
3. Predicting the results of test data
4. Confirming that the current version of the program was used
5. Obtaining reasonable assurance that the programs used to process the test data were used
by the entity throughout the applicable audit period
CPA REVIEW SCHOOL OF THE PHILIPPINES
Manila

40

Credits to the rightful owner

 lOMoARcPSD|4363002

AUDITING THEORY CPA REVIEW

COMPLETING THE AUDIT

The procedures to wrap-up an audit engagement are:

1. Review for related party transactions
2. Review for subsequent events
3. Make inquiries of a client’s legal counsel
4. Search for unrecorded liabilities
5. Perform final review stage analytical procedures
6. Review adequacy of disclosures using a disclosure checklist that list all specific
disclosures required by GAAP and the SEC, if appropriate
7. Review of working papers
8. Form an opinion

RELATED PARTY TRANSACTIONS

Identifying transactions with related parties
The following procedures may identify material transactions with known related parties or indicate
the existence of previously unknown related parties:
1. Provide personnel performing all segments of the audit with the names of known related parties
2. Review the minutes of meetings of the board of directors and committees
3. Review filings with SEC and other regulatory agencies
4. Review conflict-of-interest statements obtained from the client’s management
5. Review business transacted with major customers, suppliers, borrowers, and lenders
for indications of undisclosed relationships
6. Consider whether unrecognized transactions are occurring, such as receiving or
providing accounting, management, or other services at no charge
7. Review accounting records for large, unusual, or nonrecurring transactions or
balances, especially those near the end of the period
8. Review invoices from law firms
9. Review confirmations of loan receivable and payable for guarantees.

Examining identified related party transaction

1. Obtain an understanding of the business purpose of the transaction
2. Examine invoices, executed copies of agreements, contracts, and other documents
3. Determine whether the transaction has been approved by the board of directors or
other officials
4. Test for reasonableness the compilation of amounts to be disclosed or considered for disclosure
5. Arrange for the audits of intercompany balances to be performed as of concurrent dates,
even the fiscal years differ, and for the examination of the specified, important, and
representative related party transactions by the auditor for each of the parties with
appropriate exchange of relevant information
6. Inspect or confirm and obtain satisfaction concerning the transferability and value of
the collateral

EVENTS AFTER THE BALANCE SHEET DATE (subsequent events)

(Based on PSA 560 – subsequent events)
1. Events after the balance sheet date are those events, both favorable and unfavorable,
that occur between the balance sheet date and the date when the financial statements
are authorized for issue
2. The following procedures are typically performed at or near the completion of the fieldwork
to detect subsequent events:
a. Read the latest available interim financial statements and compare them with
the financial statements being reported on
b. Read the available minutes of the meetings of stockholders, directors,
and appropriate committees
c. Assemble pertinent findings resulting from inquiries of legal counsel and
other auditing procedures for litigation, claims, and assessments
d. Obtain a letter of representation from management
3. When the auditor becomes aware of events which materially affect the financial statements,
the auditor should consider whether such events are properly accounted for and adequately
disclosed in the financial statements

41

Credits to the rightful owner

 lOMoARcPSD|4363002

INQUIRIES OF CLIENT’S LEGAL COUNSEL

1. The auditor is required to communicate directly with a client’s attorney about liabilities
arising from litigations, claims, and assessments
2. A list of legal issues should be prepared by the client’s management, rather than the
client’s attorney. This information is sent by the auditor to the auditor to the attorney,
requesting information about:
a. Pending or threatened litigation, claims, and assessments
b. Unasserted claims and assessments
3. The client should request the attorney to furnish the following information for all pending
or threatened litigation, claims, and assessments, and to comment on differences
between the attorney’s and management’s views:
a. A description of the nature of the matter, progress to date, and action that
client intends to take
b. An evaluation of the likelihood of an unfavorable outcome and an estimate, if
one can be made, of the amount or range of potential loss
c. A statement that management’s list of pending or threatened claims is complete,
or identification of any omissions
4. The attorney’s refusal to reply to the audit inquiry is a SCOPE LIMITATION that may affect
the audit report
5. In the case of unasserted claims which the client has not disclosed, the lawyer is not required to
note them in his or her reply to the auditor. However, the lawyer is generally required to inform
the client of the omission and to consider withdrawing if the client fails to inform the auditor

MANAGEMENT REPRESENTATION LETTER

(BASED ON PSA 560 – MANAGEMENT REPRESENTATIONS)
1. The representation letter
a. Confirms the oral representations given by management to the auditor and
reduces the possibility of misunderstanding between the client and the auditor
b. Reminds management of its primary responsibility for the financial statements
c. Addressed to the auditor
d. Dated as of the audit report date
e. Signed by the CEO and the CFO
f. Not a substitute for the application of other necessary auditing procedures
2. If management refuses to provide a representation that the auditor considers necessary, this
constitutes a scope limitation and the auditor should express a qualified opinion or a
disclaimer of opinion
3. Written representations requested from management may be limited to matters that
are considered either individually or collectively material to the financial statements

EXAMPLE OF A MANAGEMENT REPRESENTATION LETTER

(ENTITY LETTERHEAD)
(TO AUDITOR) (DATE)

The representation letter is provided in connection with your audit of the financial statements of ABC Company
for the year ended December 31, 20X1 for the purpose of expressing an opinion as to whether the financial
statements present fairly, in all material aspects, the financial position of ABC Company as of December 31,
20X1 and of the results of its operations and its cash flows for the year time ended in accordance with (indicate
relevant financial reporting framework).

We acknowledge our responsibility for the fair presentation of the financial statements in accordance
with (indicate relevant financial reporting framework).

We confirm to the best of our knowledge and belief, the following representations:

Include here representations relevant to the entity. Such representations may include:
There have been no irregularities involving management or employees who have a significant role in
the accounting and internal control systems or that could have a material effect on the
financial statements
We have made available to you all the books of account and supporting documentation and all
minutes of meetings and shareholders and BOD (namely those held on (dates) respectively)
We confirm the completeness of the information provided regarding the identification of
related parties
The financial statements are free of material misstatements, including omissions
The company has complied with all aspects of contractual agreements that could have a material effect
on the financial statements in the event of noncompliance. There has been no noncompliance with

42

Credits to the rightful owner

 lOMoARcPSD|4363002

requirements of regulatory authorities that could have a material effect on the financial statements
in the event of noncompliance.
We have no plans or intentions that may affect or alter the carrying value or classification of asset
and liabilities reflected in the financial statement
(no plans regarding the inventory abandonment or no inventory were stated in an amount in excess
of net realizable value)
Indicate that there are no events subsequent to period which require adjustments in the statements
Indicate that the claim is settled in a specific amount and there are no other litigations are expected
to be received
Indicate that there are no formal or informal compensating balance arrangements with any of the
cash, except those that are disclosed
Indicate that you have recorded material regarding the capital per se
______________________
(Senior Executive Officer)
______________________
(Senior Financial Officer)

EVALUATION OF GOING CONCERN STATUS

(BASED ON PSA 570 – GOING CONCERN)
1. The auditor should evaluate if the entity is going to continue as a going concern
2. The auditor should consider:
The process followed
Assumptions that are being based on
Management’s plans for future action
3. When doubting events with regards to its “going concern assumption”, the auditor should:
Review the plans of the management
Gather sufficient evidence that indicates a company will not be able to carry out the
business anymore, consider the effect of any plans and other mitigating factors
Seek written representations from the management regarding its future plans
4. Events and conditions that may cast doubt about the going concern assumption:
FINANCIAL
Net (current) liability position
Fixed-term borrowings approaching maturity without realistic prospects of renewal
or repayment
Financial debtors indications of withdrawal
Negative operating cash flows
Adverse key financial ratios
Substantial operating loss or deterioration of
assets Arrears of dividends
Inability to pay creditors on time
Inability to comply with loan terms and agreements
Conversion of cash to credit when in delivery
Inability to obtain financing for essential investments
OPERATING
Loss of key management personnel without replacement
Loss of major franchise, supplier etc.
Labor and shortages of important supplies
OTHER
Non compliance with capital or other statutory requirements
Pending legal or regulatory proceedings against the entity
Changes in the legislation or government policy that may affect the entity

WRITING A MANAGEMENT LETTER

1. Reasons:
a. To encourage a better relationship between the auditor and the management
b. To suggest additional tax and management services that the auditor can provide
2. This letter is OPTIONAL and it helps the client operate its business effectively
3. There is no standard format for writing this letter.
CPA REVIEW SCHOOL OF THE PHILIPPINES
Manila

AUDITING THEORY CPA REVIEW

43

Credits to the rightful owner

 lOMoARcPSD|4363002

THE AUDITOR’S REPORT ON FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

(Based on PSA 700 revised – The Independent Auditor’s Report
On a Complete Set of General Purpose Financial Statements)

INDEPENDENT AUDITOR’S REPORT

[Appropriate addressee]

Report on the financial statements

[This subheading is unnecessary in circumstances when the second subheading “Report on Other
Legal and Regulatory Requirements” is not applicable.

We have audited the accompanying financial statements of ABC Company which comprise a
balance sheet as at date December 31, 20X1, and the income statement, statement of changes in
equity and cash flow statement for the year ended, and a summary of significant accounting
policies and other explanatory notes.

Management’s responsibility for the financial statements

Management is responsible for the preparation and fair presentation of these financial statements in
accordance with the Philippine Financial Reporting Standards. This responsibility includes: designing,
maintaining and implementing internal control relevant to the preparation and fair presentation of
financial statements that are free from material misstatements, whether due to fraud or error;
selecting and applying appropriate accounting policies; and making accounting estimates that are
reasonable in circumstances.

Auditor’s responsibility
Our responsibility is to express an opinion on these financial statements based on our audit. We
conducted our audit in accordance with Philippine Standards on Auditing. Those standards require
that we comply with ethical requirements and plan and perform the audit to obtain reasonable
assurance whether the financial statements are free from material misstatement. An audit involves
performing procedures to obtain audit evidence about the amounts and disclosures in the financial
statements. The procedures selected depend upon the auditor’s judgment, including the assessment
of the risks of material misstatements on the financial statements whether due to fraud or error. In
making those risk assessments; the auditor considers internal control relevant to the entity’s
preparation and fair presentation of the financial statements in order to design audit procedures that
are appropriate in the circumstances, but not for the purpose of expressing an opinion on the
effectiveness of the internal control of the entity. An audit also includes evaluating the
appropriateness of the accounting policies used and the reasonableness of accounting estimates
made by the management, as well as evaluating the overall presentation of the financial statements.

We believe that the audit evidence we have obtained is sufficient and appropriate to provide a basis
for our audit opinion.

Opinion
In our opinion, the financial statements fairly, in all material respects, the financial position of ABC
Company as of December 31, 20X1, and of its financial performance and its cash flows for the year
then ended in accordance with the Philippine Financial Reporting Standards.

Report on other legal and regulatory requirements

[Form and content of this section of the auditor’s report will vary depending on the nature of
the auditor’s other reporting responsibilities]

[Auditor’s signature]
[Date of Auditor’s report]
[Auditor’s address]

MODIFICATIONS TO THE INDEPENDENT AUDITOR’S REPORT (BASED ON PSA 701)

Matters that do not affect the auditor’s opinion
You may add an emphasis of matter paragraph to the report to highlight a
matter affecting the financial statements which is included in the note of the
financial statements that more extensively discuss the matter

44

Credits to the rightful owner

 lOMoARcPSD|4363002

The paragraph would preferably be included after the opinion paragraph but before
the section on any other reporting responsibilities, if any.
Emphasis of matter paragraph is used to highlight the existence of:
Material uncertainty relating to the event or condition that may cast
significant doubt on the entity’s ability to continue as a going concern; or
Significant uncertainty (other than a going concern problem), the resolution
of which is dependent upon future events and which may affect the
financial statements
Emphasis of matter paragraph to report on matters other than those affecting the
financial statements. For example, if an amendment to other information in a
document containing audited financial statements is necessary and the entity refuses
to make an amendment

Example of an emphasis of matter paragraph relating to a going concern problem:

Without qualifying our opinion, we draw attention to Note X in the financial statements which
indicates that the Company incurred a net loss of P_____ during the year ended December 31,20X1 and,
as of date, the company’s current liabilities exceeded its total assets by P_____. These conditions, along
with other matters, as set forth in Note X, indicate the existence of a material uncertainty which
may cast significant doubt about the Company’s ability to continue as a going concern.

Matters that affect the auditor’s opinion

If the following circumstances exists that the auditor may not be able to conclude an
unqualified judgment and the effect of the matter is or may be material to the
financial statements:
There is a limitation on the scope of the auditor’s work. – could lead to
a qualified opinion or a disclaimer of opinion
A disagreement with the management regarding the acceptability of
the accounting policies selected the method of their application on the
adequacy of financial statement disclosures. Could lead to a qualified
opinion or an adverse of opinion.

Qualified opinion
Should be expressed when the auditor concludes that the unqualified opinion cannot
be expressed but that the effect of any disagreement with management, or limitation
on scope is not so material and pervasive as to require an adverse opinion or a
disclaimer of opinion.
A qualified opinion should be expressed as being “except for” the effects of the
matter to which the qualification relates.
Adverse opinion
Should be expressed when the effect of the disagreement is so material and
pervasive to the financial statements that the auditor concludes that a qualification
of the report is not adequate to disclose the misleading or incomplete nature of the
financial statements.
Disclaimer of Opinion
Should be expressed when the possible effect of a limitation on the scope is so material
and pervasive that the auditor has not been able to obtain sufficient appropriate audit
evidence and accordingly is unable to express an opinion on the financial statements.

REPORT MODIFICATIONS

Limitation on scope

ILLUSTRATIVE EXAMPLES OF MODIFIED REPORTS

45

Credits to the rightful owner

 lOMoARcPSD|4363002

1. LIMITATION ON SCOPE – QUALIFIED OPINION

We have audited … (remaining words are the same as in the introductory page)

Management is responsible for … (same as illustrated in the management’s

responsibility paragraph)

Our responsibility is to express an opinion on these financial statements based on our

audit. Except as discussed in the following paragraph, we conducted our audit in
accordance with … (auditor’s responsibility paragraph)

We did not observe the counting of the physical inventories as of December 31, 20X1, since
that date was prior to the time we were initially engaged as auditors for the company. Owing
to the nature of the company’s records, we were unable to satisfy ourselves as to inventory
quantities by other audit procedures.

In our opinion, except for the effects of such adjustments, if any, as might have been determined to
be necessary had we been able to satisfy ourselves as to physical inventory quantities, the financial
statements fairly presents, in all material respects … (opinion paragraph)

2. LIMITATION ON SCOPE – DISCLAIMER OF OPINION

We were engaged to audit the accompanying financial statements of ABC Company, which
comprise the balance sheet date as of December 31, 20X1, and the income statements,
statement of changes in equity and cash flow statement for the year ended, and a summary
of significant accounting policies and other explanatory notes.

Management is responsible for … (same as illustrated in the management’s

responsibility paragraph)

(Omit the sentence stating the responsibility of the auditor)

(The paragraph discussing the scope of the audit would either be omitted or amended
according to the circumstances)

(Add a paragraph describing the scope limitation as follows:

We were not able to observe all physical inventories and confirm accounts receivables due
to limitations placed on the scope of our work by the company)

Because of the significance of the matters discussed in the preceding paragraph, we do

not express an opinion on the financial statements.

3. DISAGREEMENT ON ACCOUNTING POLICIES – INAPPROPRIATE ACCOUNTING METHOD

QUALIFIED OPINION
We have audited … (remaining words are the same as in the introductory page)

Management is responsible for … (same as illustrated in the management’s

responsibility paragraph)

Our responsibility is to express an opinion on these financial statements based on our

audit. Except as discussed in the following paragraph, we conducted our audit in
accordance with … (auditor’s responsibility paragraph)

As discussed in the Note X to the financial statements, no depreciation has been provided in
the financial statements which practice, in our opinion, is not in accordance in PFRS. The
provision for the year ended December 31, 20X1, should be xxx based on the straight-line
method of depreciation using annual rates of 5% for the building and 20% for the equipment.
Accordingly, the fixed assets should be reducedby accumulated depreciation of xxx and the
loss for the year and accumulated deficit should be increased by xxx and xxx, respectively.

In our opinion, except for the effects of such adjustments, if any, as might have been determined to
be necessary had we been able to satisfy ourselves as to physical inventory quantities, the financial
statements fairly presents, in all material respects … (opinion paragraph)
4. DISAGREEMENT ON ACCOUNTING POLICIES – INADEQUATE DISCLOSURES
QUALIFIED OPINION
We have audited … (remaining words are the same as in the introductory page)

Management is responsible for … (same as illustrated in the management’s

responsibility paragraph)

46

Credits to the rightful owner

 lOMoARcPSD|4363002

Our responsibility is to express an opinion on these financial statements based on our

audit. Except as discussed in the following paragraph, we conducted our audit in
accordance with … (auditor’s responsibility paragraph)

On January 31,20X2, the Company issued debentures in the amount of… for the purpose
of financing plant expansion. The debenture agreement restricts the payment of future
cash dividends to earnings after December 31,19X1, which restrictions was not disclosed
in the company’s financial statements. Disclosure of this is required by the PAS 1,
Presentation of financial statements.

In our opinion, except for the omission of the information included in the preceding paragraph,
the financial statements present fairly, in all material respects… (opinion paragraph)

5. DISAGREEMENT ON ACCOUNTING POLICIES – INADEQUATE DISCLOSURE

ADVERSE OPINION
We have audited … (remaining words are the same as in the introductory page)

Management is responsible for … (same as illustrated in the management’s

responsibility paragraph)

Our responsibility is to express an opinion on these financial statements based on our

audit. Except as discussed in the following paragraph, we conducted our audit in
accordance with … (auditor’s responsibility paragraph)

(Paragraph(s) discussing the disagreement)

In our opinion, because of the effects of the matters discussed in the preceding paragraph(s),
the financial statements do not present fairly, in all material respects, the financial position of
ABC Company as of December 31,19X1, and of its financial performance and its cash flows for
the year then ended in accordance with PFRS… (Opinion paragraph)

SUBSEQUENT EVENTS (BASED ON PSA 560)

1. The auditor should consider the effect of subsequent events on the financial
statements and on auditor’s report.

Events occurring up to the date of the auditor’s report

2. The auditor should perform procedures designed to obtain sufficient appropriate
audit evidence that all events up to date of the auditor’s report that may require
adjustment of, or disclosure in, the financial statements have been identified.
3. When the auditor becomes aware of events which materially affect the financial
statements, the auditor should consider whether such events are properly
accounted for and adequately disclosed in the financial statements.

Facts discovered after the date of the auditor’s report but before the financial statements are
issued
4. During the period from the date of the auditor’s report to the date the
financial statements are issued:
o The responsibility to inform the auditor of facts which may affect the
financial statements rests with management
o When the auditor becomes aware of the facts that will materially affect
the financial statements, the auditor should:
▪ Consider whether the financial statements needed amendment
▪ Discuss the matter with the management
▪ Take the action appropriate in the circumstances
5. When the management amends the financial statements, the auditor would carry
out the procedures necessary in the circumstances and would provide management
with a new report on the amended financial statements
6. The new auditor’s report would be dated not earlier than the date the amended financial
statements are signed or approved and, accordingly, the procedures to identify
subsequent events would be extended to the date of the new auditor’s report

47

Credits to the rightful owner

 lOMoARcPSD|4363002

7. When management does not amend the financial statements but the auditor
believes they need to be amended and the auditor’s report has not been released to
the entity, the auditor should express a qualified opinion or an adverse opinion.

Facts discovered after the financial statements have been issued

8. After the financial statements have been issued, the auditor has no obligation to
make any inquiry regarding such financial statements.
9. When, after the financial statements have been issued, the auditor becomes aware
of a fact which existed at the date of the auditor’s report and which, if known at
date, may have caused the auditor to modify the auditor’s report, the auditor should:
o Consider whether the financial statements need
revision o Discuss the matter with management
o Take the appropriate action in the circumstances
10. When management revises the financial statements, the auditor would:
o Carry out the audit procedures necessary in the circumstances
o Review the steps taken by management to ensure that anyone in receipt of the
previously issued financial statements together with the auditor’s report thereon
is informed of the situation.
o Issue a new report on the revised financial statements:
▪ Include an emphasis of a matter paragraph.
▪ Would be dated earlier than the date the revised financial statements
are approved
▪ The auditor is permitted to restrict the audit procedures regarding
the revised financial statements to effects of the subsequent event
that necessitated the revision.
11. It may not be necessary to revise the financial statements and issue a new
auditor’s report when issue of the financial statements for the following period is
imminent, provided appropriate disclosures are to be made in such statements

USING THE WORK OF ANOTHER AUDITOR (BASED ON PSA 600)

1. The principal auditor is the auditor with responsibility for reporting on the financial
statements of an entity when those financial statements include financial information
of one or more components audited by another auditor
2. The auditor should consider whether the auditor’s own participation is sufficient to
be able to act as principal auditor. The following would be considered:
o The materiality of the portion of the financial statements which the
principal auditor audits
o The principal auditor’s degree of knowledge regarding the business of
the components
o The risk of material misstatements in the financial statements of
the components audited by the other auditor
o The performance of additional procedures as set out in PSA 600 regarding
the components audited by other auditor resulting in the principal auditor
having significant participation in such audit
3. When planning to use the work of another auditor, the principal auditor should:
o Consider the professional competence of the other auditor in the context of
specific assignment
o Perform procedures to obtain sufficient appropriate audit evidence that the
work of the other auditor is adequate for the principal auditor’s purposes in
the context of the specific assignment
o Consider the significant findings of the other auditor
4. Reporting conclusions
o When the principal auditor concludes that the work of the other cannot be
used and the principal auditor has not been able to perform sufficient
additional procedures regarding financial information of the component
audited by the other auditor, the principal auditor should express a qualified
or a disclaimer of opinion because of a scope of limitation.

48

Credits to the rightful owner

 lOMoARcPSD|4363002

o If the auditor issues or intend to issue, a modified auditor’s report, the

principal auditor would consider whether the subject of modification is of such
a nature and significance, in relation to the financial statements of the entity
on which the principal auditor is reporting that a modification on the principal
auditor’s report is required.

5. Division of responsibility
o When the principal auditor bases the audit opinion on the financial statements
taken as a whole solely upon the report of another auditor regarding the audit
of one or more components, the principal auditor’s report should state this
fact clearly and should indicate the magnitude of the portion of the financial
statements audited by the other auditor.

COMPARATIVES (BASED ON PSA 710)

1. Two broad financial reporting frameworks for comparatives:

CORRESPONDING FIGURES
o For the prior periods, these are an integral part of the current period financial
statements and have to be read in conjunction with the amounts and other
disclosures relating to the current period.
o These are not presented as complete financial statements capable of
standing alone
o The auditor should obtain sufficient appropriate audit evidence that the
corresponding figures meet the requirements of GAAP in the Philippine
o The auditor should assess whether:
▪ Accounting policies used for the corresponding figures are
consistent with those of the current period or whether appropriate
adjustments and/or disclosures have been made
▪ Corresponding figures agree with the amounts and other disclosures
presented in prior period or whether appropriate adjustments
and/or disclosures have been made
COMPARATIVE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
These comparative financial statements for the prior period(s) are considered
separate financial statements.
These are presented for comparison with the financial statements of the current
period, but do not form part of the current period financial statements
The auditor should obtain sufficient appropriate evidence that the comparative
financial statements meet the requirements of GAAP in the Philippines
The auditor should assess whether:
o Accounting policies of the prior period are consistent with those of the current
period or whether appropriate adjustments and/or disclosures have been made
o Prior period figures presented agree with the amounts and other disclosures
presented in the prior period or whether appropriate judgments and
disclosures have been made

REPORTING – CORRESPONDING FIGURES

1. The comparatives are not specifically identified in the audit report because the
auditor’s opinion is on the current period financial statements as a whole, including
the corresponding figures
2. When the auditor’s report on the prior period, as previously issued, included an
opinion other than unqualified and the matter which gave rise to the modification is:
a. Unresolved, and results in modification of the auditor’s report regarding the
current figures period, the auditor’s report should also be modified regarding
the corresponding figures
b. Unresolved, but does not result in a modification of the auditor’s report
regarding the current period figures, the auditor’s report should also be
modified regarding the corresponding figures

49

Credits to the rightful owner

 lOMoARcPSD|4363002

c. Resolved, and properly dealt with in the financial statements, the current
period report does not ordinarily refer to the previous modification. However,
if the matter is material to the current period, the auditor may include an
emphasis of the matter paragraph dealing with the situation

3. When the incoming auditor decides to refer to the predecessor auditor’s report,
the incoming auditor’s report should indicate:
a. That the financial statements of the prior period were audited by
another auditor
b. Type of report issued by the predecessor auditor and, if the report was
modified, the reasons therefore;
c. Date of that report

4. When the prior period financial statements were not audited, the incoming
auditor should state that the corresponding figures are unaudited.
5. If the incoming auditor identifies that the corresponding figures are materially
misstated, the auditor should request management to revise the corresponding figures
or if management refuses to do so, appropriately modify the report

REPORTING – COMPARATIVE FINANCIAL

STATEMENTS CONTINUING AUDITOR
1. The auditor may express adverse or qualified opinion, disclaim an opinion, or include
an emphasis of paragraph with respect to one or more financial statements for one or
more period, while issuing a different report on the other financial statements
2. When finding the connectivity of the prior period financial statements with the
current financial statements, if the opinion on such prior period is different from the
opinion previously expressed, the auditor should disclose the substantive reasons
for the different opinion in an emphasis of matter paragraph

INCOMING AUDITOR
When the financial statements of the prior period were audited by another auditor,
The predecessor auditor may reissue the audit report on the prior period with
the incoming auditor only reporting on the current period; or
The incoming auditor’s report should state that the prior period was audited by
another auditor and the incoming auditor’s report should indicate:
o That the financial statements of the prior period was audited by another auditor
o The type of report issued by the predecessor auditor, and if the report was
modified, the reasons;
therefore o Date of the report
PRIOR PERIOD FINANCIAL STATEMENTS NOT AUDITED
1. When the prior financial statements were not audited, the incoming auditor should state
in the auditor’s report that the comprehensive financial statements are unaudited
2. If the prior period financial statements were materially misstated, the auditor
should request management to revise the prior year’s figures or if management
refuses to do so, appropriately modify the report

OTHER INFORMATION IN DOCUMENTS CONTAINING AUDITED FINANCIAL

STATEMENTS (BASED ON PSA 720)

1. An entity ordinarily issues on an annual basis a document which includes its

audited financial statements together with the auditor’s report thereon, also
called “annual report”.

Material inconsistencies
2. This exists when the other information contradicts information contained in the
audited financial statements

50

Credits to the rightful owner

 lOMoARcPSD|4363002

3. If, on reading the other information, the auditor identifies material inconsistency, the
auditor should determine whether the financial statements need to be amended
If the amendment is necessary and the entity refuses to make an
amendment, the auditor should express a qualified or adverse opinion
If the amendment is necessary and the entity refuses to make an
amendment, the auditor should consider including in the auditor
auditor’s report an emphasis of matter paragraph.

Material misstatements of facts

4. A Material misstatements of fact in other information exists when such information,
not related to matters appearing in the audited financial statements, is incorrectly
stated or presented
5. If the auditor becomes aware that there is a misstatement of fact, the auditor
should discuss the matter with the entity’s management
6. When the auditor still considers there is an apparent misstatement of fact in the
other information which management refuses to correct, the auditor should consider
taking appropriate action such as notifying those persons ultimately responsible for
the overall direction of the entity in writing of the auditor’s concern regarding the
other information and obtaining legal advice

THE AUDITOR’S REPORT ON SPECIAL PURPOSE AUDOT

ENGAGEMENTS (BASED ON PSA 800)
1. Special purpose audit engagements include:
a. Financial statements prepared in accordance with a comprehensive basis
of accounting other than GAAP in the Philippines
b. Specified accounts, elements of accounts, or terms in a financial statement
c. Compliance with contractual agreements
d. Summarized financial statements
2. The auditor should assess and review the conclusions drawn from the audit evidenced
obtained during the special purpose audit engagement as the basis for an expression of
opinion. The report should contain a clear written expression of opinion
3. Before undertaking a special purpose audit engagement, the auditor should
ensure there is agreement with the client as to the exact nature of the
engagement and the form and content of the report to be issued
4. The auditor’s report on a special purpose audit engagement, except for a report
on summarized financial statements, should include the following basic
elements, ordinarily in the following layout:
Title
Addressee
Opening or introductory paragraph
o Identification of the financial information audited
o A statement of the responsibility of the entity’s management and
the responsibility of the auditor
A scope paragraph
o Reference to the PSAs applicable to special purpose audit
engagements o Description of the work the auditor performed
Opinion paragraph containing an expression of opinion on the
financial information
Date of the report
Auditor’s address
Auditor’s signature

Reports on an “other comprehensive basis of accounting” financial statements

1. The report should include a statement that indicates the basis of accounting used
or should refer to the note to the financial statements giving that information
2. The opinion should state whether the financial statements are prepared, in all
material aspects, in accordance with the identified basis of accounting

51

Credits to the rightful owner

 lOMoARcPSD|4363002

3. If the financial statements are not suitably titled or the basis of accounting is not
adequately disclosed, the auditor should issue an appropriately modified report

Reports on a component financial statement

1. This type of engagement may be undertaken as a separate engagement or
in conjunction with an audit of the entity’s financial statements
2. The auditor’s report on a component of financial statements should include a
statement that indicates the basis accounting in accordance with which the
component is presented or refers to an agreement that specifies the basis. The
opinion should state whether the component is prepared, in all material aspects, in
accordance with the identified basis of accounting.
3. When an adverse opinion or disclaimer of opinion on the entire financial statements
has been expressed, the auditor should report components of the financial
statements only if those components are not so extensive as to constitute a major
portion of the financial statements. To do otherwise may overshadow the report on
the entitre financial statements.

Reports on a compliance with contractual agreements

1. Engagements to express an opinion as to an entity’s compliance with contractual
agreements should be undertaken only when the overall aspects of compliance relate
to accounting and financial matters within the scope of the auditor’s professional
competence
2. The report should state whether, in the auditor’s opinion, the entity has complied
with the particular provisions of the agreement

Reports on summarized financial statements

1. Unless the auditor has expressed an audit opinion on the financial statements from
which the summarized financial statements are derived, the auditor should not
report the summarized financial statements
2. Summarized financial statements should be appropriately titled to identify the
audited financial statements from which they have been derived.
3. Summarized financial statements do not contain all the information required by the
financial reporting framework used for annual audited financial statements.
Consequently, wording such as “present fairly, in all material respects,” is not used
4. The following elements in an auditor’s report:
a. Title
b. Addressee
c. An identification of the audited financial statements from the
summarized financial statements were derived
d. A reference to the date of the audit report on the unabridged
financial statement and the type of opinion given in that report
e. An opinion as to whether the information in the summarized financial
statements is consistent with the audited financial statements from which it
is derived
f. A statements, or reference to te note within the summarized financial
statements, which indicates that for a better understanding of an entity’s
financial performance and position and of the scope of the audit performed,
the summarized financial statements should be read n conjunction with the
unabridged financial statements and the audit report thereon
g. Date of the report
h. Auditor’s address
i. Auditor’s signature
CPA REVIEW SCHOOL OF THE PHILIPPINES
Manila

AUDITING THEORY CPA REVIEW

REPORTS – OTHER ASSURANCE AND RELATED SERVICES

52

Credits to the rightful owner

 lOMoARcPSD|4363002

ENGAGEMENTS TO REVIEW FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

(Based on PSRE 2400)

1. The objective of a review of financial statements is to enable an auditor to state whether, on

the basis of procedures which do not provide all the evidence that would be required in an
audit, anything has come to the auditor’s attention that causes the auditor to believe that
the financial statements are not prepared, in all material respects, in accordance with
Philippine Financial Reporting Standards (negative assurance).

2. For the purpose of expressing negative assurance in the review report, the auditor
should obtain sufficient appropriate audit evidence primarily through inquiry and
analytical procedures to be able to draw conclusions.

3. A review engagement provides a moderate level of assurance that the information

subject to review is free of material misstatement. This is expressed in the form of
negative assurance.

4. In planning a review of financial statements, the auditor should obtain or update the
knowledge of the business including consideration of the entity’s organization,
accounting systems, operating characteristics and the nature of its assets, liabilities,
revenues, and expenses.

5. Procedures for the review of financial statements will ordinarily include:

Obtaining an understanding of the entity’s business and the industry in
which I operates.
Inquiries concerning the entity’s
Accounting principles and practices.
Procedures for recording, classifying, and summarizing transactions, and
accumulating information for disclosures.
Actions taken at meeting of stockholders, the board of directors, and committees.
Analytical procedures designed to identify relationships and individual items
that appear unusual. Examples:
Comparison of the financial statements with those from prior periods.
Comparison of the statements with anticipated results, such as previously prepared
budgets or forecasts.
Study of the relationships of elements of the financial statements that are expected to
form a predictable pattern.
Reading the financial statements to consider, on the basis of information coming
to the auditor’s attention, whether the financial statements appear to conform to
basis of accounting indicated.
Obtaining reports from other auditor’s, if any if considered necessary, who have been
engaged to audit or review the financial statements of components of the entity.
Inquiries of persons having responsibility for financial and accounting
matters concerning, for example:
Whether all transactions have been recorded.
Whether the financial statements have been prepared in accordance with the basis
of accounting indicated.
Changes in the entity’s business activities and accounting principles and practices.
Matters as to which questions have arisen in the course of applying the foregoing procedures.
Obtaining written representations from managements when considered appropriate.

6. If the auditor has reason to believe that the information subject to review may be
materially misstated, the auditor should carry out additional or more extensive
procedures as are necessary to be able to express negative assurance or to confirm that
a modified report is required.

EXAMPLE OF AN UNQUALIFIED REVIEW REPORT

53

Credits to the rightful owner

 lOMoARcPSD|4363002

We have reviewed the accompanying balance sheet of AAA Company at December 31, 19XX, and the
related statements of income, changes in equity and cash flows for the year then ended. These financial
statements are the responsibility of the Company’s management. Our responsibility is to issue a report on
these financial statements based on our review.

We conducted our review in accordance with the Philippines Standards on Review Engagements 2400. This
Standard requires that we plan and perform the review to obtain moderate assurance as to whether the
financial statements are free of material misstatement. A review is limited primarily to inquiries of company
personnel and analytical procedures applied to financial data and thus provide less assurance than an audit.
We have not performed an audit an accordingly, we do not express an audit opinion.

Based on our review, nothing has come to our attention that causes us to believe that the accompanying
financial statements are not presented fairly, in all material respects in accordance with Philippine
Financial Reporting Standards.

ENGAGEMENTS TO PERFORM AGRRED-UPON PROCEDURES

REGARDING FINANCIAL INFORMATION (Based on PSRS 4400)

1. An engagement to perform agreed-upon procedures may involve the auditor in

performing certain procedures concerning:
Individual items of financial data (for example, accounts payable, accounts receivable, purchases
from related parties and sales and profits of a segment of an entity).
A financial statement (for example, a balance
sheet). A complete set of financial statements.
2. The objective of an agreed-upon procedures engagement is for the auditor to carry
out procedures of an audit nature to which the auditor and the entity and any
appropriate third parties have agreed and to report on factual findings.

3. As the auditor simply provides a report of the factual findings of agreed-upon procedures,
no assurance is expressed. Users of the report assess for themselves the procedures and
findings reported by the auditor and draw their own conclusions from the auditor’s work.

4. The report is restricted to those parties that have agreed to procedures to be performed
since others, unaware of the reasons for the procedures, may misinterpret the results.

5. Independence is not a requirement for an agreed-upon procedures engagement.

REPORTING

6. The report on an agreed-upon procedures engagement needs to describe the purpose

and the agreed-upon procedures of the engagement in sufficient detail to enable the
reader to understand the nature and the extent of the work performed.

7. The report of factual findings should contain:

Title;
Addressee (ordinarily the client who engaged the auditor to perform the agreed-upon procedures);
Identification of specific financial or non-financial information to which the agreed-upon procedures
have been applied;
A statement that the procedures performed was those agreed upon with the recipient;
A statement that the engagement was performed in accordance with the Philippine Standard on
Related Services applicable to agreed upon procedures engagements;
A statement that the auditor is not independent of the entity if such is the case;
Identification of the purpose for which the agreed-upon procedures were
performed; A listing of the specific procedures performed;
A description of the auditor’s factual findings including sufficient details of errors and exceptions found; A
statement that the procedures performed does not constitute either an audit or a review and, as such,
no assurance is expressed;
A statement that had the auditor performed additional procedures, an audit or a review, other
matters might have come to light that would have been reported;
A statement that the report is restricted to those parties that have agreed to the procedures to
be performed;

54

Credits to the rightful owner

 lOMoARcPSD|4363002

A statement (when applicable) that report relates only to the elements, accounts, items, or financial
and non-financial information specified and that it does not extend to the entity’s financial
statements taken as a whole;
Date of the report;
Auditor’s address; and
Auditor’s signature.

ENGAGEMENTS TO COMPLETE FINANCIAL INFORMATION (Based on PSRS 4410)

1. A compilation engagement would ordinarily include the preparation of financial statements

(which may or may not be a complete set of financial statements) but may also include the
collection, classification, and summarization o other financial information.

2. The objective of a compilation engagement is for the accountant to use accounting

expertise, as opposed to auditing expertise, to collect, classify and summarize
financial information.

3. The procedures employed are not designed and do not enable the accountant to
express any assurance on the financial information.

4. Independence is not a requirement for a compilation engagement. However, where

the accountant is not independent, a statement to that effect would be made in the
accountant’s report.

5. The accountant should obtain a general knowledge of the business and operations of the
entity and should be familiar with the accounting principles and practices of the industry
in which the entity operates and with the form and content of the financial information
that is appropriate in the circumstances.

6. The accountant is not ordinarily required to:

Make any inquiries of management to assess the reliability and completeness of
the information provided;
Assess internal controls;
Verify any matters;
Verify any explanations.

If the accountant becomes aware that information supplied by management is incorrect,

incomplete, or otherwise unsatisfactory, the accountant should consider performing the
above procedures and request management to provide additional information.

If management refuses to provide additional information, the accountant should

withdraw from the engagement, informing the entity of the reasons for the withdrawal.

7. The accountant should read the compiled information and consider whether it appears
to be appropriate in form and free from obvious material misstatements.

8. The accountant should obtain an acknowledgement from management of its

responsibility for the appropriate presentation of the financial information and of
its approval of the financial information.

9. The financial information compiled by the accountant should contain a reference such
as “Unaudited’, “Compiled without Audit or Review,’ or “Refer to the Compilation
report’ on each page of the financial information or on the front of the complete set of
financial statements.

Example of a report on an engagement to compile financial statements

55

Credits to the rightful owner

 lOMoARcPSD|4363002

On the basis of information provided by the management we have compiled, in accordance with the Philippine
Standard on Related Services applicable to compilation engagements, the balance sheet of XXX Company as
of December 31, 19XX and statements of income, changes in equity and cash flows for the year then ended.
Management is responsible for these financial statements. We have not audited or reviewed these
financial statements and accordingly express no assurance thereon.

THE EXAMINATION OF PROSPECTIVE FINANCIAL

INFORMATION (Based on PSAE 3400)

1. “PROSPECTIVE FINANCIAL INFORMATION” means financial information based on

assumptions about events that may occur in the future and possible actions by an entity.
It can be in the form of a forecast, a projection, or a combination of both, for example, a
one year forecast plus a five year projection.

2. A “FORECAST” means prospective financial information prepared on the basis of

assumptions as to future events which management expects to take place and the
actions management expects to take as of the date the information is prepared (best-
estimate assumptions).

3. A “PROJECTION” means prospective financial information prepared on the basis of:

Hypothetical assumptions about future events and management actions which are not
necessarily expected to take place, such as when some entities are in a start-up phase or
are considering a major change in the nature of operations; or
A mixture of best-estimate and hypothetical assumptions.

4. Prospective financial information can include financial statement or one or more

elements of financial statements and may be prepared:
As an internal management tool, for example, to assist in evaluating a possible
capital investment; or
For distribution to third parties.

5. Management is responsible for the preparation and presentation of the prospective

financial information, including the identification and disclosure of the assumptions
on which it is based.

6. In an engagement to examine prospective financial information, the auditor should

obtain sufficient appropriate evidence as to whether:

Management’s best-estimate assumptions on which the prospective financial

information is based are not unreasonable and, in the case of hypothetical
assumptions, such assumptions are consistent with the purpose of the information.
The prospective financial information is properly presented and all material
assumptions are adequately disclosed, including a clear indication as to whether
they are best-estimate assumptions or hypothetical assumptions; and
The prospective financial information is prepared on a consistent basis with
historical financial statements, using appropriate accounting principles.

7. The auditor should not express any opinion as to whether the results shown in
the prospective financial information will be achieved.

8. When reporting on the reasonableness of management’s assumptions, the

auditor provides only a moderate level of assurance.

9. The auditor should not accept, or should withdraw from, an engagement when the
assumptions are clearly unrealistic or when the auditor believes that the
prospective financial information will be inappropriate for its intended use.

10. The auditor should obtain written representations from management regarding the
intended use of the prospective financial information, the completeness of significant

56

Credits to the rightful owner

 lOMoARcPSD|4363002

management assumptions and management’s acceptance of its responsibility for

the prospective financial information.

Example of an unmodified report on a forecast

We have examined the forecast (include name of the entity, the period covered by the forecast and provide suitable
identification, such as by reference to page numbers or by identifying the individual statements) in accordance with
Philippine Standard on Assurance Engagements applicable to the examination of prospective financial information.
Management is responsible for the forecast including the assumptions set out in Note X on which it is based.

Based on our examination of the evidence supporting the assumptions the assumptions, nothing has come
to our attention which causes us to believe that these assumptions do not provide a reasonable basis for
the forecast. Further, in our opinion the forecast is properly prepared on the basis of the assumptions
and is presented in accordance with Philippine Financial Reporting Standards.

Actual results are likely to be different from the forecast since anticipated events frequently do not occur as
expected and the variation may be material.

Example of an unmodified report on a projection

We have learned the projection (include name of the entity, the period covered by the forecast and provide suitable
identification, such as by reference to page numbers or by identifying the individual statements) in accordance with
Philippine Standard on Assurance Engagements applicable to the examination of prospective financial information.
Management is responsible for the projection including the assumptions set out in Note X on which it is based.

This projection has been prepared for (describe purpose). As the entity is in a start-up phase the projection
has been prepared using a set of assumptions that include hypothetical assumptions about future events and
management’s actions that are not necessarily expected to occur. Consequently, readers are cautioned that
this projection may not be appropriate for purposes other than that described above.

Based on our examination of the evidence supporting the assumptions, nothing has come to our attention which
causes us t believe that these assumptions do not provide a reasonable basis for the projection, assuming that
(state or refer to the hypothetical assumptions). Further, in our opinion the projection is properly prepared on
the basis of the assumptions and is presented in accordance with Philippine Financial Reporting Standards.

Even if the events anticipated under the hypothetical assumptions described above occur, actual results are
still likely to be different from the projection since other anticipated events frequently do not occur as
expected and the variation may be material.

When the auditor believes that the presentation and disclosure of the prospective information
is not adequate, the auditor should express a qualified or adverse opinion or withdraw from
the engagement as appropriate.

When the auditor believes that one or more significant assumptions do not provide a reasonable
basis for the prospective financial information, the auditor should either express an
adverse opinion or withdraw from the engagement as appropriate.

When the examination is affected by conditions that preclude application of one or more
procedures considered necessary in the circumstances, the auditor should either withdraw
from the engagement or disclaim the opinion describe the scope limitation in the report on
the prospective financial information.

CPA REVIEW SCHOOL OF THE PHILIPPINES

Manila

AUDITING THEORY CPA REVIEW

CODE OF PROFESSIONAL ETHICS FOR CPAs

57

Credits to the rightful owner

 lOMoARcPSD|4363002

Code of Ethics for Professional Accountants in the Philippines

is based on the International Code of Ethics for professional accountants developed by

the International Federation of Accountants.
Is mandatory for all CPAs and is applicable to professional services performed in
the Philippines on or after January 1, 2004.
Is divided into three parts:
Part A - applies to all professional accountants unless otherwise specified Part
B - applies only to those professional accountants in public practice Part C -
applies to employed professional accountants, and may also apply, in
appropriate circumstances, to accountants employed in public practice

CPAs should observe the following FUNDAMENTAL PRINCIPLES:

1. Integrity
2. Objectivity
3. Professional competence and due care
4. Confidentiality
5. Professional behavior
6. Technical standards

RULES APPLICABLE TO ALL PROFESSIONAL ACCOUNTANTS

1. INTEGRITY AND OBJECTIVITY
a. Integrity implies not merely honesty but fair dealing and truthfulness. The
principle of objectivity imposes the obligation on all professional accountants to
be fair, intellectually honest, and free of conflicts of interest.
b. Professional accountants should neither accept nor offer gifts or entertainment
which might reasonably be believed to have a significant and improper influence
on their professional judgment or those with whom they deal.

2. PROFESSIONAL COMPETENCE may be divided into two separate phases

a. Attainment of professional competence- requires initially a high standard of
general education followed by specific education, training, and examination in
professionally relevant subjects and a period of work experience.
b. Maintenance of professional competence– requires a continuing awareness of
development in the accountancy profession including relevant national and
international pronouncements on accounting, auditing, and other relevant
regulations and statutory requirements

3. CONFIDENTIALITY
a. Professional accountants have an obligation to respect the confidentiality of information
about a client’s or employer’s affairs acquired in the course of professional services.
b. The duty of confidentiality continues even after the end of the relationship between
the professional accountant and the client or employer.

4. TAX PRACTICE
a. The professional accountant should ensure that the client or the employer are aware
of the limitations attaching to tax advice and services so that they do not
misinterpret an expression of opinion as an assertion of fact.
b. A professional accountant should not be associated with any return or
communication in which there is reason to believe that it:
1. Contains a false or misleading statement;
2. Contains statements or information furnished recklessly or without any
real knowledge of whether they are true or false; or
3. Omits or obscure information required to be submitted and such omission
or obscurity would mislead the revenue authorities.
c. When a professional accountant learns of a material error or omission in a tax return of a
prior year, or the failure to file a required tax return, he/she has a responsibility to:

58

Credits to the rightful owner

 lOMoARcPSD|4363002

1. Promptly advise the client or employer of the error or omission and

recommend that disclosure be made to the revenue authorities.
2. If the client or employer does not correct the error, he/she:
a. Should inform the client or the employer that it is possible to act for them
in connection with that return or other related information submitted to
the authorities; and
b. Should consider whether continued association with the client or employer
in any capacity is consistent with professional responsibilities.

5. CROSS BORDER ACTIVITIES

When a professional accountant performs services in a country other than the home
country and differences on specific matters exist between ethical requirements of the
two countries, the following provisions should be applied:
1. When the ethical requirements of the country in which the services are being
performed are LESS STRICT than the Philippine Code of Ethics, then our code should
be applied.
2. When the ethical requirements of the country in which the services are being
performed are STRICTER than our code, then the ethical requirements in the
country where services are being performed should be applied.
3. When the ethical requirements of the Philippines are mandatory for services
performed outside the Philippines and are stricter than that set out in (1) and (2)
above, then the ethical requirements of the Philippines should be applied.

6. PUBLICITY

In the marketing and promotion of themselves and their work, professional

accountants should:
a. Not use means which brings the profession into disrepute.
b. Not make exaggerated claims for the services they are able to offer, the
qualifications they possess, or experience they have gained; and
c. Not denigrate the work of other accountants.

RULES APPLICABLE TO PROFESSIONAL ACCOUNTANTS IN PUBLIC PRACTICE

INDEPENDENCE

a. Independence requires:
1. Independence of mind – The state of mind that permits the provision of an
opinion without being affected by influences that compromise professional
judgment, allowing an individual to act with integrity, and exercise objectivity
and professional skepticism.
2. Independence in appearance – The avoidance of facts and circumstances that are
so significant that a reasonable and informed third party, having knowledge of all
relevant information, including safeguards applied, would reasonably conclude a
firms, or a member of the assurance team’s integrity, objectivity or professional
skepticism had been compromised.
b. Members of assurance teams, firms, and network firms should identify THREATS to
independence, evaluate the significance of those threats, and, if the threats are other
than clearly insignificant, identify and apply SAFEGUARDS to eliminate the threats or
reduce them to acceptable level, such that independence of mind and independence in
appearance are not compromised. In situations when no safeguards are available to
reduce the threat to an acceptable level. The only possible actions are to:
1. Eliminate the activities or interest creating the threat; or
2. Refuse to accept or continue the assurance engagement.

INDEPENDENCE REQUIREMENTS IN ASSURANCE ENGAGEMENTS

59

Credits to the rightful owner

 lOMoARcPSD|4363002

a. For assurance engagements provided to an audit client, the member of the assurance team,
the firm and network firms are required to be independent of the client
b. For assurance engagements provided to clients that are not audit clients, when the report is
not expressly restricted for use by identified users, the members of the assurance team and
firm are required to be independent of the client
c. For assurance engagements provided to clients that are not audit clients, when the assurance
report is expressly restricted for use by identified users, the members of the assurance team
are required to be independent of the client. N addition, the firm should not have a material
direct or indirect financial interest in the client

Network firm – an entity under common control, ownership or management with the firm or any
entity that a reasonable and informed third party having knowledge of all relevant information
would reasonably conclude as being part of the firm nationally or internationally

Financial interest – an interest in equity or other security, debenture, loan or other debt instrument
of an entity including rights and obligations to acquire such an interest and derivatives directly
related to such interest

Direct financial interest – a financial interest:

1. Owned directly by and under the control of an individual or entity; or
2. Beneficially owned through a collective investment vehicle, estate, trust or
other intermediary over which the individual or entity has control
Indirect financial interest – a financial interest beneficially owned through a collective investment
vehicle, estate, trust or other intermediary over which the individual or entity has no control

THREATS TO INDEPENDENCE
1. SELF-INTEREST THREAT
Occurs when a firm or a member of the assurance team could benefit from a financial interest
in, or other self-interest conflict with, an assurance client. Examples:
a. A direct financial interest or material indirect financial interest in an assurance client
b. A loan or guarantee to or from an assurance client or any of its directors or officers
c. Undue dependence on total fees from an assurance client
d. Concern about the possibility of losing the engagement
e. Having a close business relationship with an assurance client
f. Potential employment with an assurance client
g. Contingent fees relating to assurance engagements
2. SELF-REVIEWTHREAT
Occurs when:
a. Any product or judgment of a previous assurance engagement or non-assurance
engagement needs to be reevaluated in reaching conclusions on the assurance
engagement or;
b. When a member of the assurance team was previously a director or officer of the
assurance client, or was an employee in a position to exert direct and significant influence
over the subject matter of the assurance engagement
3. ADVOCACY THREAT
Occurs when a firm, or a member of the assurance team, promotes, or may be perceived to
promote, an assurance client’s position or opinion to the point that objectivity may, or may
be perceived to be compromised
4. FAMILIARITY THREAT
Occurs when, by virtue of a close relationship with an assurance client, its directors, officers
or employees, a firm or a member of the assurance team becomes too sympathetic to the
client’s interests.

5. INTIMIDATION THREAT
Occurs when a member of the assurance team may be deterred from acting objectively and
exercising professional skepticism by threats, actual or perceived, from the directors, officers
or employees of an assurance client

SAFEGUARDS

60

Credits to the rightful owner

 lOMoARcPSD|4363002

1. When the threats are identified, other than those that are clearly insignificant,
appropriate safeguards should be identified and applied to eliminate the threats or
reduce them to an acceptable level. This decision should be documented
2. When the safeguards are available are insufficient to eliminate the threats to independence
or to reduce them to an acceptable level, or when a firm chooses not to eliminate the
activities or interest creating the threat, the only course of action available will be the refusal
to perform, or withdrawal from, the assurance engagement

CATEGORIES OF SAFEGUARDS
1. Safeguards created by the profession, legislation or regulation
2. Safeguards within the assurance client
3. Safeguards within the firm’s own systems and procedures

Safeguards created by the profession, legislation or regulation include:

a. Educational, training and experience requirements for entry into the profession
b. Continuing education requirements
c. Professional standards and monitoring and disciplinary processes
d. External review of a firm’s quality control systems; and
e. Legislation governing the independence requirements of the firm

Safeguards within the assurance client include the following:

a. When the assurance client’s management appoints the firm, persons other than
management ratify or approve the appointment
b. The assurance client has competent employees to make managerial decisions
c. Policies and procedures that emphasize the assurance client’s commitment to fair
financial reporting
d. Internal procedures that ensure objective choices in commissioning non-
assurance engagements; and
e. A corporate governance structure, such as an audit committee, that provides
appropriate oversight and communications regarding a firm’s services
Safeguards within the firm’s own systems and procedures may include FIRMWIDE safeguards such as
the following:
a. Firm leadership that stresses the importance of independence and the expectation
that members of assurance teams will act in the public interest
b. Policies and procedures to implement and monitor quality control of assurance engagements
c. Documented independence policies
d. Internal policies and procedures to monitor compliance with firm policies and procedures
as they relate to independence
e. Policies and procedures that will enable the identification of interests or relationships
between the firm or members of the assurance team and assurance client
f. Policies and procedures to monitor and, if necessary, mange the reliance on revenue
received from a single assurance client
g. Using different partners and teams with separate reporting lines for the provision of
non-assurance service to an assurance client
h. Policies and procedures to prohibit individuals who are not members of the assurance
team from influencing the outcome of the assurance engagement
i. Timely communication of a firm’s policies and procedures, and any changes thereto, to all
partners and professional staff, including appropriate training and education thereon
j. Designating a member of senior management as responsible for overseeing the
adequate functioning of the safeguarding system
k. Means of advising partners and professional staff of those assurance clients and related
entities from which they must be independent
l. A disciplinary mechanism to promote compliance with policies and procedures; and
m. Policies and procedures to empower staff to communicate to senior levels within the firm
any issue of independence and objectivity that concerns them; this includes informing staff
of the procedures open to them

Safeguards within the firm’s own systems and procedures may include ENGAGEMENT
SPECIFIC safeguards such as the following:
a. Involving an additional professional accountant to review the work done or otherwise advise as
necessary. This individual could be someone from outside the firm or network firm, or someone
with the firm or network firm who was not otherwise associated with the assurance team
b. Consulting a third party, such as a committee of independent directors, a
professional regulatory body or another professional accountant

61

Credits to the rightful owner

 lOMoARcPSD|4363002

c. Rotation of senior personnel

d. Discussing independence issues with the audit committee or others charged with governance,
e. Disclosing to audit committee, or others charged with governance, the nature of
services provided and extent of fees charged
f. Policies and procedures to ensure members of the assurance team do not make, or
assume responsibility for, management decisions for the assurance client
g. Involving another firm to perform or re-perform part of the assurance engagement
h. Involving another firm to re-perform the non-assurance service to the extent necessary
to enable to take responsibility for that service; and
i. Removing an individual from the assurance team, when that individual’s financial interest
or relationships create a threat to independence

ENGAGEMENT PERIOD
1. The members of the assurance team and the firm should be independent of the assurance
client during the period of the assurance engagement
2. The period of the engagement is expected to recur, the period of the assurance services
and ends when the assurance report is issued, except when the assurance engagements is
of a recurring nature
3. If the assurance engagement s expected to recur, the period of the assurance engagement
ends with the notification by either party that the professional relationship has terminated or
the issuance of the final assurance report, whichever is later
4. In the case of an audit engagement, the engagement period includes the period covered by
the financial statements reported on by the firm
5. When an entity becomes an audit client during or after the period covered by the
financial statements that the firm will report on, the firm should consider whether any
thretas to independence may be created by:
a. Financial or business relationships with the audit client during or after the
period covered by the financial statements, but prior to the acceptance of the
audit engagement; or
b. Previous services provided to the audit client

Similarly, in the case of an assurance engagement that is not an audit engagement, the firm
should consider whether any financial or business relationships or previous services may
create threats to independence.

62

Credits to the rightful owner