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Audit Planning Memo
Audit Planning Memo
Client Name:
The purposes of the audit plan are, first, to contribute to the effectiveness of the audit and, second, to
contribute to the audit efficiency. This memorandum should be completed and approved as part of initial
audit planning. In completing this document, there may be occasions when matters already documented
in other work papers are relevant. There is no need to re-write such material if a specific reference can
be made.
This memorandum is structured so that planning documentation common to all engagements is
presented. All items should be read and considered on every engagement. When a section is not
applicable, indicate "N/A" with a brief explanation why it is not applicable.
The planning memorandum is divided into three sections:
1. Administration and job set up;
2. Risk assessment; and
3. Approach
The Understanding the Business of the Entity should be used as the starting point for engagement planning.
Engagement Objective:
Timing of the review (including submission of draft report and anticipated date of closing
meeting).
Management in attendance
The need for Information Technology (IT) auditor or other specialist assistance
Whether independent reviewer is needed (e.g., because client is designated for Close
Monitoring)
Role
Date
2. Prior Audits
a. Previous Audit History
Prior audit date:
Key Issues Raised:
3. Extent of Change
Document any significant current events, issues and considerations and how such conditions will impact
the overall audit approach (restructuring, new products, changes in operations, management, changes in
compliance requirements and other regulations, environment, etc.). Consider management's position on
operational change as well as other prior events and issues which have carry over impact on the current
audit engagement.
Documentation:
Scope of audit
Other issues
Documentation:
5. Risk of Fraud
Consider whether there is a high risk of fraud, including:
Documentation:
6. Other Factors
Consider the impact of other factors, e.g. reliance on work of internal auditors.
Documentation:
Audit Response
If the risk level, assessed as a result of the planning phase, differs from the risk indicated on the
Understanding the Business of the Entity, the reasons for the change should be documented.
Documentation:
III. APPROACH
Once determined, the detailed work to be performed should be documented in the standard work
program format. In determining the approach to the audit, the following issues should be considered:
Where the engagement involves detailed transaction testing, a statistically based sampling approach
should generally be used. The justification for the sampling method and parameters selected should
be documented in the appropriate sampling approach memo.
Documentation:
E. Client Assistance
Describe below the nature of any significant assistance that may be provided by client's staff and the
effect on the audit work to be performed. Attach request list if applicable.
Assistance from Client
Prepared by:
Date
Date
Reviewed by:
Approved by:
Engagement Partner
Date