Finding 1057657 (2023-001)

Material Weakness Repeat Finding
Requirement
P
Questioned Costs
-
Year
2023
Accepted
2024-08-16

AI Summary

  • Core Issue: There is minimal segregation of duties in the accounting function, increasing the risk of undetected errors or fraud.
  • Impacted Requirements: Proper segregation of duties is essential for strong internal controls, but budget constraints limit staffing options.
  • Recommended Follow-Up: Management should closely supervise and review accounting information regularly to mitigate risks in the absence of additional personnel.

Finding Text

Criteria: A proper segregation of duties is an important component of a system of strong internal controls and should be implemented, if possible. Condition: There is minimal segregation of duties among personnel involved in the accounting function. A lack of proper segregation of duties could allow errors or irregularities to occur and go undetected. Due to budgetary constraints imposed by HUD, small projects, for sound economic conditions, must function with a small number of office personnel and correction of this condition would require the employment of additional office personnel. Consequently, corrective action may not be practical. Cause: For sound economic reasons, the Corporation and the management company must function with a small number of office personnel, and correction of this condition would require the employment of additional office personnel. Consequently, corrective action may not be practical. Effect: A lack of segregation of duties increases the risk that errors or fraud may occur and not be prevented or detected on a timely basis. Recommendation: When this condition exists, management’s close supervision and review of accounting information is the best means of preventing or detecting errors and irregularities. Management Response: We agree and will continue to monitor monthly financial results and accounting information as correction is not practical.

Categories

Internal Control / Segregation of Duties HUD Housing Programs

Other Findings in this Audit

  • 481213 2023-001
    Material Weakness Repeat
  • 481214 2023-002
    Material Weakness Repeat
  • 481215 2023-001
    Material Weakness Repeat
  • 481216 2023-002
    Material Weakness Repeat
  • 1057655 2023-001
    Material Weakness Repeat
  • 1057656 2023-002
    Material Weakness Repeat
  • 1057658 2023-002
    Material Weakness Repeat

Programs in Audit

ALN Program Name Expenditures
14.155 Mortgage Insurance for the Purchase Or Refinancing of Existing Multifamily Housing Projects $2.84M
14.195 Section 8 Housing Assistance Payments Program $624,114