WSU is subject to audit by external parties throughout the year. The university cooperates with all external auditors in their responsibilities examining and confirming university transactions and activities. To facilitate cooperation and collaboration, every external audit has a university liaison — most often this will be the Controller, Sponsored Program Services and/or Internal Audit (IA). See BPPM 30.14 External Audits for more information.
The State Auditor’s Office (SAO) will be auditing WSU this month and into fall. WSU IA serves as liaison between central administrative offices, departments, and the State Auditors.
If you are contacted by anyone identifying as an external auditor, proper protocols must be followed to protect confidential data and provide a cooperative and collaborative process. No records or information are to be released until verifying the reviewer’s identity and purpose. Contact the unit supervisor and IA.
Except for surprise cash counts, all audit engagements should have prior notice and be coordinated through the university liaison. If the State Auditor makes contact for an unannounced cash count, remember:
- obtain proper identification
- notify supervisor immediately and have present for the count if possible
- do not leave the funds, ever
- contact IA as soon as possible, after the count or during the count if problems arise
Questions? Contact IA at: ia.central@wsu.edu
