What it is
A group audit adds a second layer of planning: which components matter, who will do the work and how the group team will stay involved. SAS 149 revised AU-C 600 and applies to audits of group financial statements for periods ending on or after December 15, 2026.
The memo records the group and component structure, group-level risks, a scoping table with the response for each component, the involvement of component auditors and the timetable.
When to use it
- Audits that include subsidiaries, divisions or investees audited or reviewed by others.
- Planning the first group audit under the revised standard.
- When scoping decisions need to be documented for review.
What’s inside
- Group audit determination and framework section
- Group risk assessment and consolidation controls
- Component scoping table with responses and materiality
- Component auditor evaluation and communication section
Standard cited
This template follows AU-C 600. 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 600 explained.
Questions
Which version of AU-C 600 applies?
The revised AU-C 600 (SAS 149) applies for periods ending on or after December 15, 2026, so December 31, 2026 group audits must comply. For earlier periods the prior version applies unless the firm adopts early.
Does the memo choose the scope for me?
No. It gives a place to record the scoping decision and the reasons, which your methodology and professional judgment determine.
Related templates
- Audit Planning Memo (AU-C 300)
- Consolidation and Elimination Workbook (ASC 810)
- Consolidating Worksheet, Multiple Entities
- Audit Risk Assessment Worksheet (SAS 145)
Last updated 11/06/2026. All free templates.