CPA Exam — AUDForming Conclusions and ReportingEasy

A CPA is performing an engagement to review the financial statements of a non-public entity. Which of the following procedures would typically be performed in such an engagement?

  1. AConfirmation of accounts receivable directly with debtors.
  2. BObservation of physical inventory counts at year-end.
  3. CInquiry of management about significant subsequent events.
  4. DAssessment of internal control over financial reporting.
Show answer & explanation

Correct answer: C. Inquiry of management about significant subsequent events.

A review engagement provides limited assurance, primarily through inquiry and analytical procedures. Inquiry of management regarding subsequent events is a standard procedure in a review.

Why the other options are wrong

  • A. Confirmations are typically performed in an audit, not a review, as they provide a higher level of assurance.
  • B. Observation of inventory is an audit procedure designed to obtain direct evidence about the existence and condition of inventory.
  • D. Assessing internal control is a core procedure in an audit to determine the nature, timing, and extent of substantive testing, not a review.

Review Engagement Procedures

A review engagement provides limited assurance on financial statements, primarily through inquiry and analytical procedures, without performing extensive audit procedures.

  • Less extensive than an audit.
  • Primarily uses inquiry and analytical procedures.
  • Provides limited (negative) assurance.

Memory trick: Reviews Really Rely on Reading and Asking.

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