What it is
Planning is where most audit file deficiencies start: a risk assessment that is not tied to the procedures, a materiality benchmark without a reason, or a fraud discussion nobody dated. This checklist runs through the planning requirements of AU-C 210, 220, 240, 300, 315 and 320 in eight sections, one answerable item each.
Risk assessment items follow AU-C 315 as amended by SAS 145, and quality management items follow AU-C 220 as amended by SAS 146 (audits of periods beginning on or after December 15, 2025). The Summary sheet counts answered and open items by section.
When to use it
- Before fieldwork starts on any nonissuer audit.
- To confirm the planning memo and risk assessment worksheet are complete before partner approval.
- For recurring audits, to show planning was refreshed and not copied forward.
What’s inside
- Acceptance, engagement terms and predecessor communication
- Independence, nonattest services and quality management
- Understanding the entity, internal control and IT
- Risk assessment, fraud and going concern at planning
- Materiality, audit strategy and plan
- Summary by section with open and “No” counts
Standard cited
This template follows AU-C 300 / 315 / 320. 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 300 explained.
Questions
Does this replace the planning memo?
No. The memo records the decisions. The checklist confirms each required step was done and points to where it is documented.
What changed with SAS 145?
The auditor assesses inherent risk and control risk separately, uses inherent risk factors and a spectrum of inherent risk, and must understand the IT environment and the controls over significant risks. SAS 145 applies to audits of periods ending on or after December 15, 2023.
When does the SAS 146 quality management wording apply?
SAS 146, which amends AU-C 220, applies to audits of financial statements for periods beginning on or after December 15, 2025. For earlier periods use the quality control wording in your file.
Related templates
- Audit Planning Memo (AU-C 300)
- Audit Risk Assessment Worksheet (SAS 145)
- PBC List — Audit Request List (Excel)
- Audit Engagement Letter (AU-C 210)
Last updated 11/05/2026. All free templates.