What it is
The completion stage pulls the audit together: final analytical procedures, the summary of misstatements, subsequent events and going concern, written representations, the report and the required communications. AU-C 230 then requires the final file to be assembled within 60 days after the report release date and kept for at least five years.
This checklist runs through those steps in order, with sign-offs for the preparer, manager and engagement partner, and a file assembly section to evidence the documentation completion date.
When to use it
- In the final days before the report is dated and released.
- For file assembly after release, before the 60-day documentation completion date.
What’s inside
- Final analytics, misstatement evaluation and materiality reassessment
- Going concern, subsequent events, legal letters and representations
- Report form and content (AU-C 700 and modifications), other information and supplementary information
- AU-C 260 and AU-C 265 communications, EQ review completion
- File assembly: documentation completion date, changes after release, retention
Standard cited
This template follows AU-C 230 / AU-C 700. It is written in our own words, except for phrases the standard requires the document to contain, with [bracketed placeholders] for client details, amounts in USD and dates as MM/DD/YYYY. Check it against the current standard and your firm’s methodology before use. See AU-C 230 explained, AU-C 700 explained.
Questions
How long does an auditor have to assemble the audit file?
AU-C 230 requires assembly of the final engagement file no later than 60 days after the report release date. After that date, documentation must not be deleted or discarded before the end of the retention period.
How long must audit documentation be kept?
AU-C 230 requires a retention period of at least five years from the report release date. State law, regulators or contracts (for example, single audits) may require longer.
What is the difference between the report date and the report release date?
The report date is when the auditor has obtained sufficient appropriate evidence, and is no earlier than management’s approval of the statements. The report release date is when the auditor grants management permission to use the report. The 60-day assembly window runs from the release date.
Related templates
- Engagement Quality Review Checklist (SQMS 2)
- Summary of Uncorrected Misstatements (AU-C 450)
- Independent Auditor's Report — Unmodified Opinion (AU-C 700)
Last updated 11/04/2026. All free templates.