A risk-based budget model for independent audit engagement

Estimating the time budget of any independent audit engagement is often a subjective estimation done without paying attention to uniform criteria, therefore, the audit profession does not enjoy its benefits in project planning and control. Also, the auditor's estimation of time budget can be one of the effective factors in determining audit fees. The purpose of this study is to provide a practical model to reasonably estimate a risk-based time budgeting for independent audit of financial statements. The research method was literature review, interviewing experts, distributing questionnaires and using grounded theory to collect data in order to present an applied model and review the budget form. According to the proposed model, at the stage of work acceptance, the time budget is initially estimated based on the assessed risk for each part of the budget form and then initial estimated hours will be adjusted by obtaining an understanding or overview from the customer. The proposed model of this study has been formulated as an executive instruction, and its mechanization for deployment is now at the production phase, in collaboration with a specialized working group of partners and managers in one of the largest private sector audit institutions in our country.