Understanding Financial Statement Services: Compilations and Reviews
Financial statements are the bedrock of sound business decisions. They provide crucial insights into your company's performance and financial health. However, the level of assurance provided by a CPA on those statements can vary significantly. This post focuses on two important levels of assurance services: compilations and reviews, explaining their purpose and when they might be right for your business.
Why Financial Statements Matter
Accurate, timely, and understandable financial statements are essential for any business. They serve as the foundation for strategic planning, securing financing, and evaluating your overall success. Whether you're a small startup or a growing enterprise, understanding your financial position is paramount.
Compilations: A Foundational Approach
A compilation is often the starting point for businesses, particularly when seeking initial or smaller amounts of financing. In a compilation, the CPA's role is primarily to present financial data in the proper format. Think of it as assembling the pieces of a puzzle. The CPA takes the financial information you provide and organizes it into financial statements that comply with accounting standards.
It's important to understand what a compilation doesn't include. The CPA does not provide any assurance on the accuracy or completeness of the information. They are not verifying the underlying data or performing any in-depth analysis. Essentially, they are saying, "Based on the information provided, these financial statements appear to be presented correctly."
While the CPA doesn't provide assurance in a compilation, they can still offer valuable insights. They can help identify any obvious errors or inconsistencies in the data, ensuring that the financial statements are clear and understandable. A compilation can be a cost-effective way to get your financial information organized and presented professionally. The CPA does not have to be independent for a compilation, but if they aren't independent, they must disclose that fact in the compilation report.
Reviews: A Step Up in Assurance
As your business grows and your financing needs become more complex, a review may be the more appropriate service. A review provides a higher level of assurance than a compilation. In a review, the CPA performs inquiry and analytical procedures to assess the financial statements. This involves asking management questions about the financial data and comparing key figures to identify any potential red flags.
The CPA's goal in a review is to provide "limited assurance" that there are no material modifications that should be made to the financial statements. They are not providing an audit-level of assurance, but they are offering a greater degree of confidence than a compilation. The CPA's report will state whether they are aware of any material modifications needed to the financial statements.
Choosing the Right Service for Your Business
The decision to choose a compilation or a review depends on several factors, including your financing needs, the requirements of your stakeholders, and your budget. A compilation might be sufficient for smaller businesses with limited financing needs, while a review may be necessary for larger businesses seeking significant investment. Reviewed financial statements are also required for obtaining a contractors license in the state of Tennessee.
At Callison CPA, we can help you determine which service is right for your business. We'll work with you to understand your specific needs and provide guidance on how to best present your financial information. Our team of experienced CPAs is committed to providing you with the highest quality of service and helping you achieve your financial goals. Schedule a consultation to discuss your specific requirements and learn how we can help you succeed.