Finding 1168814 (2024-001)

Material Weakness Repeat Finding
Requirement
A
Questioned Costs
-
Year
2024
Accepted
2026-01-12

AI Summary

  • Core Issue: Accounting records were not kept on an accrual basis, leading to inaccuracies.
  • Impacted Requirements: Failure to follow U.S. GAAP resulted in material errors and missing budget preparation.
  • Recommended Follow-Up: Implement accrual accounting practices and ensure management reviews reconciliations regularly.

Finding Text

Criteria: Recording transactions on an accrual basis is in accordance with U.S. generally accepted accounting principles, and it provides more meaningful financial information. Accrual basis accounting is the method of accounting where revenues are recognized when earned, and expenses are recognized when incurred. Condition and Context: During our audit procedures, it was noted that accounting records were not maintained on an accrual basis. Additionally, a budget was not prepared for the year under audit. Cause: While reconciliations were prepared, it was noted that they were not maintained on an accrual basis, therefore, there were several errors resulting in material audit entries. Expenses were recorded for items not yet incurred. Additionally, management’s review of the grant reconciliation and related indirect cost calculation was not evident. Effect: As a result of the condition noted above, several adjusting entries were required to correct the differences between the general ledger and the audited balances.

Corrective Action Plan

Management acknowledges the condition noted regarding the maintenance of accounting records on a cash basis rather than an accrual basis in 2024, as well as the absence of a formal budget for the year under audit. We recognize that these factors contributed to errors in the financial records and resulted in the need for several audit adjustments. To address the underlying causes identified, management is implementing the following corrective actions: • Transition to Accrual Basis Accounting: We have revised our accounting processes to ensure that all financial activity is recorded in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles (GAAP). This includes recording expenses in the period in which they are incurred and ensuring that all reconciliations reflect accrual basis adjustments. • Grant Reconciliation Oversight: We have strengthened our review of grant reconciliations and indirect cost calculations to ensure accuracy and compliance with grant requirements. The Treasurer reviews all reconciliations and submits same to the Board for review and approval on a monthly basis. • Timely Period End Close: Management is implementing a structured month end and year end close process to ensure that all reconciliations and supporting schedules are completed and reviewed promptly after period close. • Budget Preparation: Approximately 90% of all revenue and appropriations are driven by grant programs with specific spending requirements. As such, there are limited funds subject to the development of an operating budget outside of grant funding. However, the Board of Director's has initiated the development of an annual budget related to the discretionary funding.

Categories

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Other Findings in this Audit

  • 1168815 2024-002
    Material Weakness Repeat

Programs in Audit

ALN Program Name Expenditures
93.889 NATIONAL BIOTERRORISM HOSPITAL PREPAREDNESS PROGRAM $877,027
93.354 PUBLIC HEALTH EMERGENCY RESPONSE: COOPERATIVE AGREEMENT FOR EMERGENCY RESPONSE: PUBLIC HEALTH CRISIS RESPONSE $330,469