Yes, there are alternatives to a full financial statement audit for small businesses. These alternatives include review engagements, which provide limited assurance, and compilation engagements, which involve compiling financial data without providing assurance. These options may be more cost-effective for smaller businesses while still providing some level of assurance. We’re happy to discuss your options with you!
Audit and Assurance Services
Building Trust and Transparency: Your Partner in Audit and Assurance since 1986
SSL Associates goes beyond the numbers. Our Chicago and nationwide audit and assurance services provide clarity and mitigate risk. With us, you can build trust with stakeholders and move forward confidently knowing that your organization’s financials are properly presented.
Audit and Assurance Services We Offer
At SSL Associates, we offer a comprehensive suite of audit and assurance services designed to ensure accuracy, transparency, and compliance for businesses across the country.
Financial Statement Audit
Our meticulous financial statement audits provide stakeholders with confidence in the accuracy and reliability of your organization's financial statements. We assess internal controls, verify transactions, and provide valuable insights to support informed decision-making and regulatory compliance.
Financial Statement Review & Compilation
Our review and compilation services offer varying levels of assurance depending on your business needs. Whether providing limited assurance through reviews or compiling financial data, we ensure compliance with accounting standards and provide clarity for your stakeholders.
Agreed-Upon Procedures (AUP) Engagement
Our AUP engagements offer tailored procedures to meet specific business needs. Whether verifying financial data, assessing compliance, or investigating irregularities, we provide customized solutions and actionable insights to support informed decision-making and mitigate risks.
Merger & Acquisition Audits
Our merger and acquisition audits provide comprehensive due diligence to support strategic decision-making and transactional success. From financial assessments to risk evaluations, we help identify opportunities and challenges, assess synergies, and ensure the transition is smooth for all interested parties.
Generally Accepted Government Auditing Standards (GAGAS) Audits
GAGAS, also known as Yellow Book audits, adhere to the highest standards of integrity, accountability, and transparency when reporting to governmental agencies. With expertise in federal, state, and local regulations, we guarantee compliance, identify areas for improvement, and enhance trust with governmental entities through rigorous assessment and independent reporting.
Single Audit (OMB Circular A-133) Services
Our Single Audit services, aligned with OMB Circular A-133 requirements, help federally funded organizations maintain compliance with strict federal guidelines. We conduct in-depth audits of federal awards, evaluate internal controls, and ensure adherence to both federal and program-specific regulations.
Accuracy Assured, Transparency Guaranteed
Trust SSL Associates for thorough audits that instill confidence. Contact us to elevate your financial integrity today!
Our Approach to Audits & Assurance
At SSL Associates, we understand the critical role audits and assurance services play in building trust and transparency. That's why we go beyond just crunching numbers. Our approach is built on four key pillars:
Deep Industry Expertise
Our experienced team of CPAs has a deep understanding of your industry's unique challenges and regulations. This allows us to tailor our audit and assurance procedures to address your needs and ensure a comprehensive and relevant assessment.
Collaborative Partnership
We believe in fostering a collaborative partnership with your team. Through open communication and a clear understanding of your business goals, we work alongside you to create a smooth and efficient audit process.
Risk-Based Methodology
We use a risk-based methodology to identify and focus on areas of your financial statements most susceptible to error or misstatement. This targeted approach optimizes efficiency while delivering a high-quality audit
Proactive Insights and Recommendations
Our focus extends beyond mere compliance. Our team provides valuable insights and recommendations to help you identify potential risks, strengthen internal controls, and optimize your financial reporting processes for the future.
We Serve Your Business
At SSL Associates, we're dedicated to serving businesses across diverse sectors, from startups and small enterprises to large organizations, with customized solutions designed to drive success and uphold financial integrity.
Nonprofits rely on trust. Audits ensure your finances are accurate and transparent, building donor confidence and strengthening your mission.
We provide comprehensive audit & assurance services to businesses, delivering thorough evaluations that enhance transparency and build stakeholder trust. Our approach combines traditional methods with innovative techniques to offer reliable and effective auditing solutions.
Why Choose Us for Your Audit?
Deep Industry Expertise
Navigate Industry Regulations. Audits You Can Trust.
Cost-Effective Solutions
Budget-Conscious Services. Maximize Your Value.
Technology-Driven Efficiency
Save Time & Resources.
Ongoing Support
Your Partner Beyond the Audit. Continued Guidance.
Hear It from Our Clients
Seamus Naughton, Lake Shore Glass
5.0
As the owner-operator of a construction company, my hours are spent focusing on the operational aspects of our business. Managing our year-end financials was an unwelcome challenge that was a large drain on my time. Having SSL Associates, Ltd. freed me to focus my attention where it best served my company, and gave me peace of mind that our accounting would be done accurately, professionally, and on time. Their ability to work hand in hand with our accounting department allows us to tackle problems as they arise throughout the year to ensure all tax & financial reporting deliverables are free of any last-minute headaches.
Steve Brown, VP Business, Sabre Hockey Association
5.0
SSL Associates, Ltd. has been an invaluable resource for our youth hockey non-profit organization. Their team's expertise in tax compliance and financial reporting has been instrumental in ensuring transparency and accountability to our many families, donors and stakeholders. Their commitment to excellence and their deep understanding of the non-profit sector have made them an indispensable part of our success and a valued partner that we trust and rely on for their guidance.
Kristin Newell, Director of Finance and Administration, Evolution Soccer Club
5.0
When we started the not-for-profit youth travel soccer club, we quickly grew large enough that we are required to be audited by an independent accounting firm each year. We have used SSL Associates Ltd. for the past seven years and couldn’t be happier with their services. SSL also helped us make improvements to our Quickbooks so that the Audit is now very efficient. Their responsiveness and expertise in non-profit accounting has enabled our staff to stay focused on our mission of providing a competitive and positive learning environment to develop our players both on and off the field.
Mark Huelskoetter
5.0
SSL Associates has been a trusted advisor to Wenzak for many years. Their knowledge and valuable insights around tax and reporting impacts of business issues has helped us to navigate key decisions and stay focused on our core business. We greatly appreciate the personal approach and responsiveness of the entire team.
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Reach Out Today!
Ready to discuss your audit and assurance needs? Contact SSL Associates today for a complimentary consultation.
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FAQs
Are there alternatives to a full financial statement audit for small businesses?
How can I prepare my company for an upcoming audit?
There are steps you can take to start preparing. Here’s what we recommend:
- Organize financial records and documentation.
- Review internal controls and address any weaknesses.
- Communicate with auditors to understand their requirements and expectations.
- Train staff on audit procedures and ensure cooperation.
- Address any previous audit findings or recommendations
What should I expect during an audit engagement?
During an audit engagement, you can expect auditors to examine financial documents, interview key personnel, assess internal controls, perform testing procedures, and issue findings and recommendations. Communication with auditors and providing access to necessary information are an integral part of this process.
What are the different types of audits?
There are several types of audits, each serving different purposes and objectives:
- Financial statement audit: This type of audit focuses on verifying the accuracy and reliability of an organization's financial statements to ensure compliance with accounting standards and regulatory requirements.
- Internal audit: Internal audits are conducted by internal audit teams or outsourced firms to evaluate and improve the effectiveness of internal controls, risk management processes, and operational efficiency within an organization.
- Compliance audit: Compliance audits assess whether an organization is adhering to laws, regulations, industry standards, or internal policies. They ensure that the organization operates within the boundaries set by governing bodies or internal best practices.
- Forensic audit: Forensic audits are conducted to investigate suspected fraud, financial misconduct, or irregularities within an organization. They involve detailed examination and analysis of financial records, transactions, and evidence to uncover fraudulent activities.
These are some of the common types of audits, each serving a distinct purpose and contributing to organizational transparency, accountability, and improvement. If you have additional questions, our professional team is here to help.