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Nonprofit Audit Preparation Checklist
A 90-day audit preparation guide built by nonprofit CPAs. Three pages, 43 clickable checkboxes, and a phase-by-phase timeline that helps your organization complete fieldwork in 1–2 weeks instead of 4–6.
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Format: Fillable PDF
Pages: 3
Checkboxes: 43 clickable
Updated: April 2026
PDF
Audit Preparation Checklist
3 pages · 27 KB · 100% free · No signup required
What's Inside the Checklist
Every audit-ready document organized into five categories plus a 90-day timeline. Each item has a clickable checkbox so your audit coordinator can track readiness and share progress with the board.
Page 1
Core Records & Transactions
- General ledger and trial balance
- Bank statements and reconciliations
- Investment statements
- Cash flow statements
- Budget vs. actual reports
- 3-year prior financial statements
- Accounts receivable and payable aging
- Payroll records and 1099s
- Grant agreements
- Major gift documentation
Page 2
Governance & Internal Controls
- Form 990 returns (3-year history)
- Board meeting minutes
- Bylaws and articles of incorporation
- Conflict of interest forms
- Whistleblower policy
- Fixed asset register
- Donor restriction documentation
- Fund balance tracking
- Segregation of duties
- Cash handling procedures
- Disbursement approval hierarchy
Page 3
90-Day Preparation Timeline
- 90 days before — Foundation tasks
- 60 days before — Document assembly
- 30 days before — Final preparations
- Audit firm selection guidance
- Trial balance and statement prep
- Audit binder organization
The 90-Day Audit Preparation Framework
The PDF organizes your preparation into three sequential phases. Use this proven framework to avoid last-minute scrambles, reduce auditor questions, and keep audit costs predictable.
Phase 1
90
days before audit
Foundation Setting
Engage your audit firm, review prior management letter, designate audit coordinator, and begin document organization.
Phase 2
60
days before audit
Document Assembly
Complete bank reconciliations, finalize grant reporting, update fixed asset register, and document all internal controls in writing.
Phase 3
30
days before audit
Final Preparations
Generate trial balance and supporting schedules, draft preliminary financial statements, and organize audit binders.
Who This Checklist Is For
Designed for any 501(c)(3) nonprofit preparing for an external audit, regardless of whether the audit is mandated by federal, state, grant, or bylaw requirements.
How to Use This Checklist
Step 01
Download & Save
Click the download button and save the PDF to your computer or shared cloud drive.
Step 02
Open in PDF Reader
Use Adobe Acrobat, Preview, or any modern browser. All 43 checkboxes are clickable.
Step 03
Assign Owners
Share with finance team and audit coordinator. Assign ownership for each section.
Step 04
Track Progress
Check items as completed. Save your file to maintain a running record of audit readiness.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is this checklist really free?
Yes. 100% free with no email signup or registration required. Click download and use it. We provide it as a public resource for the nonprofit community.
When should I start using this checklist?
Begin 3 to 4 months before your expected audit start date. Use the included 90-day / 60-day / 30-day phased timeline to pace your preparation. First-time audits should allow up to 6 months.
How is this different from the Grant Audit Checklist?
This 43-item checklist covers
any audit (federal, state, grant, or voluntary) with comprehensive document categories and a 90-day timeline. The
Grant Audit Checklist is a 12-item simplified version focused specifically on grant-driven audits.
Can I edit and check items inside the PDF?
Yes. The PDF includes 43 fillable AcroForm checkboxes. Open in any PDF reader and click each checkbox to mark items complete. Save your progress to track over time.
Does this replace working with a CPA?
No. This checklist helps you prepare more efficiently and reduces the time your CPA spends on basics.
Contact GivingArc if you need professional support.
How long does an audit take with proper preparation?
Well-prepared organizations complete audit fieldwork in 1–2 weeks. Unprepared organizations may need 4–6 weeks. Total audit timeline is typically 8–12 weeks.
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