Auditing 2 Part 14 - Client Representation Letter

Summary

In this video, the importance of the client representation letter in auditing is discussed. The speaker explains the definition, purpose, and responsibilities surrounding this letter, which is prepared by management to assure auditors of the accuracy and completeness of the financial statements. The video also covers the necessary content of the letter, the potential consequences of not obtaining it, and the benefits it provides in legal contexts. Key topics include the role of auditors, client responsibilities, and examples of common content found in client representation letters. The speaker concludes with the significance of this document in ensuring a fair audit process.

Takeaways

• 😀 Client Representation Letter (Surat Pernyataan Langganan) is a letter provided by the client’s management to the auditor, confirming specific details about the company’s financial statements.
• 😀 This letter serves as evidence for the auditor and helps form the basis of the auditor's opinion on the client's financial statements.
• 😀 The Client Representation Letter must be prepared during the audit fieldwork, either in written or verbal form, to confirm management's assertions.
• 😀 The letter should be signed by the client’s management before the auditor publishes the audit report, as it supports the audit opinion.
• 😀 If management refuses to provide the letter, it may be considered a limitation in the scope of the audit, leading to a qualified or disclaimed opinion.
• 😀 The letter is crucial for auditors because it validates the reliability of financial information provided by the client, helping auditors form their opinion on the financial statements.
• 😀 The management of the client is responsible for preparing and signing the Client Representation Letter.
• 😀 The auditor ensures that the letter is obtained, and it plays a critical role in forming the final audit opinion.
• 😀 The letter includes key statements such as confirmation of the accuracy of financial statements, the availability of required information, and no unreported legal violations or contract breaches.
• 😀 Legal implications arise if the auditor does not receive the Client Representation Letter, as they could be held accountable for not detecting errors or omissions in the client’s financial records.

Q & A

What is a Client Representation Letter in auditing?

A Client Representation Letter is a letter created by management or the client for the auditor during the fieldwork process. It serves as a written or verbal confirmation of the client's responses to specific audit-related questions or information provided through the financial statements.

When should a Client Representation Letter be prepared?

The Client Representation Letter can be prepared at any time during the audit process. It should be dated to coincide with the auditor's report date and must be signed before the report is issued, as it serves as crucial evidence supporting the audit opinion.

Why is the Client Representation Letter important in the auditing process?

The letter is important because if management refuses to provide the requested representation, it is seen as a scope limitation, which could result in a modified audit opinion or the auditor withdrawing from the engagement. It ensures the reliability of the information provided to the auditor for forming an opinion on the financial statements.

What happens if the management refuses to provide a Client Representation Letter?

If management refuses to provide the letter, the auditor may consider it as a restriction on the audit scope, which could justify issuing a qualified opinion or withdrawing from the audit engagement altogether.

Who is responsible for the Client Representation Letter?

The responsibility for preparing the Client Representation Letter lies with management. The auditor requests this letter from the client as part of the audit process to confirm the accuracy and completeness of the information provided.

What are the key contents of a Client Representation Letter?

The letter typically includes statements regarding the fairness of the financial statements, the availability of required information, the accuracy of financial records, compliance with accounting standards, and the absence of unrecorded transactions or events that could affect the financial statements.

What are the potential consequences if the auditor does not have the Client Representation Letter?

Without the Client Representation Letter, the auditor might be exposed to legal liabilities, including the possibility of being held responsible in court if the financial statements cause harm to third parties. The auditor could be fined, or their certification could be revoked.

Can the Client Representation Letter be used in court as evidence?

Yes, the Client Representation Letter can be used as evidence in court if stakeholders or third parties challenge the audit or claim damages based on the financial statements, protecting the auditor from liability.

What does the Client Representation Letter confirm about transactions and financial records?

The letter confirms that all significant transactions have been properly recorded and that no material events have been omitted from the financial records, ensuring the reliability of the financial statements being audited.

What types of financial information are addressed in the Client Representation Letter?

The letter addresses various aspects of financial reporting, including assets, liabilities, equity, revenue, expenses, and any special arrangements or related party transactions. It confirms that these elements are accurately presented in accordance with applicable accounting standards.