Internal audit system

This query is : Resolved 

10 November 2011 Is it mandatory for a Private Company on which CARO is applicable to have an Internal Audit system ?

And if it is mandatory, and the company does not have an Internal Audit system themn what consequences will follow ?

14 November 2011 No formal installation of internal audit syatem is required legally.

However it is advisable to install something like this for better performance of the company.

01 August 2024 ### Internal Audit System and CARO Applicability

#### **1. Applicability of Internal Audit System:**

Under the Companies Act, 2013, the requirement for maintaining an internal audit system in a private company is influenced by the provisions of the Companies (Auditor's Report) Order, 2020 (CARO 2020), and the Companies (Accounts) Rules, 2014.

**Internal Audit Mandate:**
- **Internal Audit System** is mandatory for a private company if it meets any of the following conditions:
- **Paid-up Share Capital:** The company's paid-up share capital is ₹50 crore or more.
- **Turnover:** The company’s turnover is ₹200 crore or more.
- **Borrowings:** The company’s borrowings from banks or financial institutions are ₹100 crore or more.
- **Listed Companies:** All listed companies are required to have an internal audit system, regardless of the size or turnover.

If a private company falls under these conditions, it is required to have an internal audit system in place to ensure that its operations are efficient and comply with laws and regulations.

#### **2. Consequences of Non-Compliance:**

If a company that falls under the CARO 2020 criteria does not have an internal audit system, the following consequences may arise:

1. **Non-Compliance with CARO:**
- **Audit Report:** The statutory auditor's report may include a qualification or adverse remark regarding the lack of an internal audit system, which could impact the credibility of the company's financial statements.
- **Regulatory Scrutiny:** The company may face increased scrutiny from regulatory authorities such as the Ministry of Corporate Affairs (MCA).

2. **Legal and Penalty Consequences:**
- **Penalties:** Under Section 143(3)(i) of the Companies Act, 2013, the statutory auditor is required to report on the existence and adequacy of the internal audit system. Failure to maintain an internal audit system, if mandated, may lead to penalties.
- **Compliance Issues:** Non-compliance with internal audit requirements could result in legal actions and penalties for the company as prescribed by the Companies Act, 2013.

3. **Operational Risks:**
- **Operational Efficiency:** Without an internal audit system, the company may face inefficiencies, fraud, and operational issues that could adversely affect its performance and compliance.
- **Risk Management:** Lack of internal controls may lead to inadequate risk management and oversight, exposing the company to various financial and operational risks.

4. **Impact on Stakeholders:**
- **Investors and Creditors:** The absence of an internal audit system may affect the confidence of investors and creditors, potentially impacting the company’s ability to raise capital or secure credit.

### **Summary:**

For private companies falling under CARO 2020 criteria, having an internal audit system is mandatory. Failure to establish such a system can lead to regulatory, legal, and operational consequences. It is essential for companies to comply with these requirements to ensure proper governance and risk management.


You need to be the querist or approved CAclub expert to take part in this query .
Click here to login now


CCI Pro

Similar Resolved Queries


loading


Unanswered Queries



CCI Pro
Meet our CAclubindia PRO Members

Follow us
add to google news


Answer Query



Company
Featured 15 June 2026
Senior Auditor

N. Dhawan & Co

New Delhi

CA Inter

View Details
Company
24 May 2026
Accounts & Tax Executive

PARAS KHURANA AND CO

New Delhi

B.Com

View Details
Company
ARTICLESHIP 17 May 2026
CA Article /Trainee

Malik Sunil & co

New Delhi

CA Foundation

View Details
Company
19 May 2026
Article, CA & Paid Assistant Positions

Aggarwal Sarawagi and Co

New Delhi

CA

View Details
Company
ARTICLESHIP 09 June 2026
Article Trainee

Numbertree LLP

Mumbai

CA Inter

View Details
Company
29 May 2026
Finance Head

Bhawar Sales Corporation

Chennai

Graduate (Any)

View Details
Company
26 May 2026
CA / MBA (Finance) / CMA / M.Com (Finance)

Sri Aurobindo Gnostic Centre of Education

New Delhi

CA

View Details
Company
Featured 27 May 2026
Lead Conversion Executive / Sales Closing Executive

SMJ global advisors pvt ltd

New Delhi

B.Com

View Details