The Audit Connection Blog
How and when to seek SAO approval for a restitution agreement
State law requires local governments and state agencies to approval in writing from the State Auditor’s Office (SAO) and the Attorney General’s Office for settlement or compromise of any claim arising from misappropriation. Here are answers to some frequently asked questions to help you navigate this requirement. ... CONTINUE READING
Information from the Washington State Auditor about the state’s unemployment and Self-Employment Assistance Program (SEAP) fraud
Criminals, suspected to be part of an international crime ring, have targeted the state’s Employment Security Department and are filing fraudulent unemployment claims using the names and personal information of real people to steal public money. Here are a few questions and answers regarding this fraud. ... CONTINUE READING
Protect confidential information while working at home
As your employees continue to telework, they might be handling, transferring and storing confidential data at home differently than they did at their usual work location. Learn how to protect this information in this new work environment. ... CONTINUE READING
A message from State Auditor Pat McCarthy: Annual financial report filing deadline extended
As promised, I wanted to let you know as soon as possible that a limited extension of the annual financial report filing deadline has been approved by legislative leadership. The new filing deadline is June 17. ... CONTINUE READING
When exploring financial options, remember these considerations
Many governments are feeling the pressure on their general fund and looking at cost cutting and other measures. Here are some areas you might be looking at and some tips and resources to keep in mind. ... CONTINUE READING
Know your options: Allocating overhead costs can spread the burden among funds
A cost allocation plan takes some work to set up and carry out, but it can take some pressure off of the general fund. Here are some helpful tips and resources should you decide to go that route. ... CONTINUE READING
Loss of funds at economic development association underscores need for audits
The Camas-Washougal Economic Development Association resisted audits for years, lost public funds and lacked even basic financial documentation since its inception, the Office of the Washington State Auditor found in two reports issued today. ... CONTINUE READING
Are you looking to borrow from your restricted funds? Keep these tips in mind
If the COVID-19 crisis is hurting your local government’s cash flow, you might be looking to borrow from restricted funds. Here are a few things to keep in mind. ... CONTINUE READING
A message from State Auditor Pat McCarthy: Important update regarding delay of GASB standard
The Governmental Accounting Standards Board (GASB) voted Thursday, May 7 to delay implementation of several new accounting standards. The decision by GASB takes effect immediately, and comes in response to requests by governments across the country as they grapple with the coronavirus pandemic. ... CONTINUE READING
Schools and school districts: Check out a special edition of our newsletter just for you
In this special edition of our Audit Connection newsletter, we offer a range of articles tailored to schools and school districts. ... CONTINUE READING