Auditor independence resource center
The AICPA, DOL, and SEC all have rules regarding auditor independence. The DOL rules apply to all employee benefit plan auditors, the AICPA rules also apply to those auditors who are members of the AICPA, and the SEC's rules apply to auditors of plans that file on Form 11-K with the SEC. The Center has compiled the following resources to assist employee benefit plan auditors in better understanding the independence rules that apply to them and their firms.
Auditor Resources
Non-attest services performed for EBP audit client independence review toolThis EBPAQC tool helps auditors document their assessment of whether nonattest services performed for an EBP audit client impairs independence.
The DOL's independence rules are codified in DOL Interpretive Bulletin 75-9 (29 CFR 2509.75-9).
The AICPA's independence rules are codified in AICPA Rule 101, Independence.
This tool assists members in understanding some of the more common DOL and AICPA independence rules and the differences between them.
Independence Inquiries
AICPA Hotline and Contact Information
The Professional Ethics Division educates members and promotes the understanding of ethical standards contained in the Code by responding to member inquiries on the application of the Code to specific areas of practice. To access the Ethics Hotline, dial (888) 777-7077, (select option 2, then 3) or e-mail us at ethics@aicpa.org.
DOL
EBSA Hotline: 866-463-3278
Contact The Center
Employee Benefit Plan Audit Quality Center
The Center is a voluntary membership organization for firms that perform or are interested in performing ERISA employee benefit plan audits.