Assurance in the Not-for-Profit Sector Explained
1. Financial Statement Audits
Financial Statement Audits involve an independent examination of a not-for-profit organization's financial statements to express an opinion on whether they present fairly, in all material respects, the financial position, results of operations, and cash flows in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles (GAAP).
Example: A charity organization undergoes a financial statement audit by an external auditor. The auditor reviews the organization's financial records, verifies transactions, and ensures that the financial statements comply with GAAP. The auditor then issues an audit report expressing an opinion on the fairness of the financial statements.
2. Agreed-Upon Procedures Engagements
Agreed-Upon Procedures Engagements are engagements where the auditor performs specific procedures on financial information as agreed upon by the auditor and the organization. The auditor then reports the findings of these procedures without expressing an opinion on the financial statements as a whole.
Example: A not-for-profit organization requests an agreed-upon procedures engagement to verify the accuracy of its donor database. The auditor performs procedures such as reconciling donor records with bank statements and verifying the accuracy of donation amounts. The auditor then provides a report detailing the findings of these procedures.
3. Internal Control Assessments
Internal Control Assessments involve evaluating the effectiveness of a not-for-profit organization's internal controls over financial reporting. This includes assessing the design and implementation of controls to ensure that financial information is accurate and reliable.
Example: A not-for-profit organization conducts an internal control assessment to evaluate its controls over cash disbursements. The assessment includes reviewing the segregation of duties, authorization procedures, and reconciliation processes. The findings are then reported to the organization's management to identify areas for improvement.
4. Compliance Audits
Compliance Audits involve examining a not-for-profit organization's compliance with applicable laws, regulations, and contractual obligations. This includes verifying that the organization adheres to funding requirements, tax regulations, and other legal obligations.
Example: A not-for-profit organization that receives government grants undergoes a compliance audit to ensure it meets the conditions of the grant agreement. The auditor reviews the organization's records to verify that funds are used for authorized purposes and that the organization complies with all reporting requirements. The auditor then issues a report detailing the findings and any areas of non-compliance.