Chapter 9 - Internal audit Flashcards
What is the internal audit function?
Appraisal activity established as a service to the entity examining internal controls
What is the internal audit generally a feature of?
Large companies
What is the objective of external audit?
Express an opinion on financial statements
What is the objective of internal audit?
Designed to add value and improve operations
What does the internal audit report to?
Board of directors/audit committee
Who do external auditors report to?
Shareholders
What are the roles of an internal audit?
- Monitoring internal controls
- Examine financial and operational info
- Review economy, effectiveness and efficiency of operations
- Review compliance with laws and regs
- Identify and evaluate risk
What is the relationship between risk and internal audit function?
Internal audit function monitors overall risk management policy and strategies implemented
How does the internal audit aid internal controls?
- Monitors overall process and provides assurance
- Must retain objectivity
- Testing
-Ensures policies are adequate
What 3 roles could the internal audit function take on to help the board in its management of the company and still operate effectively?
- Giving expert advice on technical accounting matters
- Liaising with the external auditors
- Auditing board reports not audited by the external auditors
What 3 activities are performed by both internal and external auditors?
- Review of compliance with laws and regulations
- Assessment of the effectiveness of internal controls
- Carrying out tests of details on transactions and balances