PCAOB Proposes Modernization of Standards Addressing Core Auditing Principles and Responsibilities

The Public Company Accounting Oversight Board (PCAOB) today issued for public comment a proposed new standard, AS 1000, General Responsibilities of the Auditor in Conducting an Audit. The Board requests public comment on the proposal by May 30, 2023.

If adopted, AS 1000 would reorganize and consolidate a group of standards that were adopted on an interim basis by the PCAOB in April 2003 and that address the core principles and responsibilities of the auditor, such as reasonable assurance, professional judgment, due professional care, and professional skepticism.

The proposal would also amend certain other standards that address responsibilities fundamental to the conduct of an audit. Among other changes, the amendments would (1) reinforce and clarify the engagement partner’s responsibility to exercise due professional care related to supervision and review and (2) accelerate the documentation completion date by reducing the maximum period for the auditor to assemble a complete and final set of audit documentation from 45 days to 14 days.

“Our capital markets never stop evolving, and PCAOB standards must keep up to keep investors protected,” said PCAOB Chair Erica Y. Williams. “This proposal would modernize standards that are foundational to audit quality, ensuring they are fit to meet today’s challenges.”

Since the PCAOB’s adoption of the interim standards in 2003, the auditing environment has continued to develop in many ways, including new PCAOB standards, new or revised independence requirements, and advancements in technology affecting the availability of electronic audit evidence and use of audit software.

The proposal would bring important improvements designed to reflect changes in the auditing environment, eliminate outdated and inconsistent language, and increase consistency throughout PCAOB standards.

Detailed questions are included throughout the proposal, and commenters are encouraged to (1) comment on any or all topics, (2) respond to any or all questions, (3) provide feedback in areas not covered by specific questions, and (4) provide any evidence that informs commenters’ views.

The public can learn more about submitting comments on proposed PCAOB rules at the Rulemaking Docket page. For more information regarding the PCAOB’s standard-setting activity, visit our Standards page.

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About the PCAOB

The PCAOB is a nonprofit corporation established by Congress to oversee the audits of public companies in order to protect investors and further the public interest in the preparation of informative, accurate, and independent audit reports. The PCAOB also oversees the audits of brokers and dealers, including compliance reports filed pursuant to federal securities laws.

Contact

PCAOB Office of Communications and Engagement
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