What it is
PCAOB AS 2101 sets the planning requirements for issuer audits: preliminary engagement activities, an overall audit strategy that sets scope, timing and direction, and an audit plan describing risk assessment procedures and responses.
The memo follows those headings, lists the matters in AS 2101.07 to evaluate, and adds the scope of the internal control audit under AS 2201.
When to use it
- Annual planning for an accelerated or large accelerated filer.
- New issuer audits.
- When the engagement quality reviewer needs a map of the planning decisions.
What’s inside
- Preliminary engagement activities from AS 2101.06
- Table of the matters in AS 2101.07 with effect on the audit
- Strategy, plan and multi-location scoping
- ICFR scope and timing and audit committee communications
Standard cited
This template follows AS 2101 / AS 2201. 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.
Questions
Where do the planning matters come from?
AS 2101.07 lists matters the auditor evaluates, such as knowledge of internal control from other engagements, industry matters, recent changes, preliminary materiality and risk judgments, and the relative complexity of operations.
Is the memo current with PCAOB amendments?
The PCAOB amends its standards. Check the memo against the current text of AS 2101 and AS 2201 before use.
Related templates
- Audit Planning Memo (AU-C 300)
- SOX 404 Scoping Memo
- Engagement Quality Review Checklist (SQMS 2)
- Communication With Those Charged With Governance (AU-C 260)
Last updated 11/06/2026. All free templates.