Agreed-upon procedures (AUP) is a type of audit engagement where an auditor performs specific procedures on financial or non-financial information as requested by the client or a third party. Unlike a full audit or review, the auditor does not express an opinion or conclusion but reports only the factual findings based on the agreed-upon procedures.
Agreed-Upon Procedures (AUP) is an engagement where an auditor is asked to carry out specific tasks or tests on financial or non-financial data based on the agreement made with the client or another party. Unlike an audit or review, the auditor does not provide a formal opinion but instead reports the factual outcomes of the agreed procedures. This process is typically used to address specific concerns or verify certain information as requested by the parties involved, making it a highly focused and tailored engagement.
The auditor is not required to perform a full examination but only the specific procedures stipulated in the agreement. These procedures could range from simple reconciliations to more detailed checks and verifications, depending on the needs of the client or the third party. The resulting report only presents the findings without offering any assurance or conclusion, making it distinct from other types of audits.
Purpose Of Agreed-Upon Procedures
The primary purpose of an agreed-upon procedures engagement is to provide a client or third party with specific information that is needed to make informed decisions. These procedures can be focused on a particular area, such as verifying financial transactions, reviewing contract compliance, or confirming inventory levels.
Scope Of Agreed-Upon Procedures
The scope is defined entirely by the client or the third party, which means the auditor's involvement is limited to performing the specified tasks. These engagements do not cover broader aspects of financial health or internal controls.
Key Benefits Of Agreed-Upon Procedures
Focused Examination
AUP engagements allow for a focused examination of specific areas of concern.
No Opinion or Conclusion
Since the auditor does not issue an opinion, the engagement is usually less costly and quicker than a full audit.
Transparency
The client or third party receives a clear report of the factual findings, which can support decision-making.
Applicability For Agreed-Upon Procedures
Agreed-Upon Procedures (AUP) are often used to address client-specific needs when a client requires specific information without the need for a full audit. These procedures may also be mandated by regulatory bodies to verify compliance with particular standards. Additionally, AUPs are commonly utilized during business transactions such as mergers and acquisitions, where they help verify the accuracy of data related to the transaction, ensuring that both parties have a clear understanding of the financial or operational details.
Document Required For Agreed-Upon Procedures
Financial statements or relevant records to be examined.
Specific transactions or areas that need verification.
Any legal or contractual documents that the procedures must verify.
Agreements and contracts with third parties outlining the procedures to be performed.
Choose Lexprosoft for Your Agreed-Upon Procedures !
At Lexprosoft, we provide tailored Agreed-Upon Procedures (AUP) services designed to meet your specific needs. Whether you require a focused examination of financial data, regulatory compliance verification, or transaction-related verifications, our team of experts ensures that the agreed procedures are executed with precision and transparency. We work closely with you to understand your requirements and provide a clear, factual report of our findings, offering you the confidence and insights needed for informed decision-making. Trust Lexprosoft to deliver efficient and reliable AUP services that align with your business objectives.
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Agreed-Upon Procedures (AUP) FAQ's
What are Agreed-Upon Procedures (AUP)?
AUP is an audit engagement where an auditor performs specific procedures agreed upon by the client or a third party to verify particular information. The auditor reports the factual findings but does not offer an opinion.
What is the difference between AUP and a full audit?
AUP focuses on specific tasks or checks as per the agreement, without providing an overall opinion on the financial statements, whereas a full audit involves a thorough evaluation of the financial statements and includes an opinion on their accuracy and compliance.
Who typically uses Agreed-Upon Procedures?
AUP is used by businesses or organizations that need specific data or verifications, such as compliance checks, transaction verifications, or regulatory reviews, without requiring a full audit.
What type of documents are required for Agreed-Upon Procedures?
Required documents may include financial statements, specific transaction records, legal or contractual documents, or any other relevant data the auditor needs to examine as per the agreed procedures.
Why would a business choose Agreed-Upon Procedures?
Businesses choose AUP when they need a focused, cost-effective examination of certain data, such as for regulatory compliance, business transactions, or specific concerns, without the full scope of an audit.
How do Agreed-Upon Procedures differ from a review?
A review involves an assessment of financial statements, providing limited assurance, while AUP involves executing specific procedures and reporting findings without offering assurance or an opinion.
Can AUP be used for compliance verification?
Yes, AUP is commonly used for verifying compliance with regulations or standards when required by regulatory bodies.
What happens after the AUP procedures are completed?
Once the procedures are completed, the auditor provides a report with the factual findings based on the agreed-upon procedures, which is shared with the client or relevant parties.
Are AUP engagements less expensive than full audits?
Yes, since AUP engagements focus on specific procedures rather than a full audit, they are generally quicker and more cost-effective.
Can AUP be used during business transactions?
Yes, AUP is often used in mergers, acquisitions, or other business transactions to verify the accuracy of data and ensure transparency for all parties involved.
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