SSAE 19 Key Changes, Applications, and Best Practices

Overview

Entities relying on agreed-upon procedures engagements must understand key enhancements in SSAE No. 19 to better tailor reporting, broaden distribution, and address evolving subject matters. Michael Manspeaker, CPA, CGMA, of SEK CPAs & Advisors explains how removing the need for pre-specified parties, allowing general-use reports, and enabling CPAs to develop procedures helps smaller entities optimize cost-effectiveness while ensuring independence, high-quality documentation, and pertinent findings.

Highlights

• artificial intelligence in accounting
• automation for accountants
• emerging technology trends

Objectives

• Identify the key changes introduced by SSAE No. 19, including the removal of restrictive distribution requirements and the practitioner's ability to develop procedures.
• Distinguish between the roles of an engaging party and a responsible party in agreed — upon procedures (AUP) engagements.
• Recognize how independence, thorough documentation, and clearly stated findings contribute to high — quality AUP engagements.
• Indicate how smaller or less complex entities can benefit from the cost — effectiveness and flexibility offered by SSAE No. 19.