What it is
The internal audit charter is the document by which the board establishes internal audit. It states the purpose, the authority, the independence, the scope and the reporting lines, and it is reviewed and approved by the board.
This template follows the structure used in the Global Internal Audit Standards. Every entity-specific item is a [bracketed placeholder], and a drafting note reminds you to align it with the standards and the audit committee charter.
When to use it
- When setting up an internal audit function.
- At the annual review of the charter.
- When moving to the Global Internal Audit Standards.
What’s inside
- Purpose, authority and independence sections
- Scope and chief audit executive responsibilities
- Standards, reporting table and approval block
Standard cited
This template follows IIA Global Internal Audit Standards (2024). 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
Who approves the charter?
The board, usually through the audit committee. The chief audit executive proposes it and reviews it at least annually.
Does the charter need to follow the Global Internal Audit Standards?
If the function says it follows them, yes. Read the published standards for the mandate and charter requirements, since this template is a starting draft and does not reproduce them.
Related templates
- Audit Committee Charter
- Internal Audit Quality Assurance and Improvement Program Plan
- Internal Audit Independence and Objectivity Statement
- Internal Audit Annual Plan Workbook
Last updated 11/05/2026. All free templates.