Finding 544134 (2024-002)

Finding #2024-002 – Lack of Financial Close Process and Delayed Accounting Condition: Cash and other accounts were adjusted during the audit process. Many audit journal entries were required to record and adjust activity. Effect: Financial reporting from the District’s general ledger could be materially misstated. Delayed grant claims could cause cash flow issues. Cause: The District did not have procedures in place to ensure that all transactions were properly recorded on the general ledger prior to the audit. Criteria: During the close of the monthly financial statements, other balances should be reconciled to subsidiary detailed listings. Grant claims should be reconciled to the general ledger and submitted throughout the year. Receivables should be recorded as of year end as needed. Recommendation: The District should develop procedures to timely reconcile cash and other balance sheet accounts. The reconciliations should be reviewed by someone other than the person preparing the reconciliations. The reviewer should initial and date the reconciliations when the review is complete. The District should reconcile payroll liabilities. The District should develop procedures to review and submit grant claims throughout the year and reconcile to the general ledger. Response: The District will work to establish procedures to reconcile accounts monthly and grant claims are reconciled and submitted throughout the year.