WSU is subject to audit by external parties throughout the year. The university cooperates with external auditors in their responsibilities examining and confirming transactions and activities. Every external audit has a university liaison — most often the Controller, Sponsored Programs Services, and/or Internal Audit.
The State Auditor’s Office (SAO) will be onsite this month and into summer. WSU Internal Audit serves as liaison between central administrative offices, departments, and the state auditors.
If your unit is 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. If contacted by an external auditor, including state auditor, please contact the unit supervisor and Internal Audit.
With the exception of 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 (picture ID and business card)
- Notify unit supervisor immediately and have present for the count if possible
- Do not leave the funds, ever
- Contact Internal Audit as soon as possible, after the count or during the count if problems arise
For more information, contact Internal Audit at ia.central@wsu.edu.
