This week the Peer Review Board of the AICPA voted to grant a six-month extensions for peer reviews, corrective actions, and implementation plans that had original due dates between January 1 and September 30, 2020. The delays, consistent with other standard setters, are trying to assist firms who are struggling with COVID19. As firms assist clients with obtaining assistance and work to audit in a remote environment, the delay is to provide relief. The additional six months is optional and if a firm and the reviewer are ready and able, they can continue as scheduled. The extension is automatic and does not have to be requested.
This week found our regulatory agencies working hard to address COVID-19. OMB expanded its administrative relief to entities impacted operationally by current conditions. The AICPA provided guidance on how to audit inventory when you can’t be on site. The SEC provided disclosure guidance to address COVID. GASB has indicated potential delays of two major standards in response to operational issues. FASB has worked with the federal agencies to address loan modifications and TDRs in light of banks helping customers dealing with COVID fallout. Standard setting may be on hold while they all take the time to address the current situation.
OMB has issued administrative relief for those who receive federal financial assistance that is DIRECTLY RELATED to COVID-19. The GAQC has provided clarifying guidance on who the relief is directed to. We expect additional guidance for a broader subset of nonfederal entities due to operational issues in the near future. Universities are also impacted significantly by COVID-19 due to instructional disruption. The Department of ED has also provided guidance on the impact on student financial assistance. This blog reviews the major impacts of this OMB alert.
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