In the world of auditing, “PBC” stands for “Prepared by Client.” These are the documents and information that clients need to give us so we can do our job smoothly. When those PBCs are missing or arrive late, it creates a ripple effect that impacts everyone involved.
Why Timeliness Matters
We plan our audit schedules at least six months in advance, and those schedules are strategic. We assign recurring team members who are familiar with your business and have experience in your industry. This means that when everything runs on time, you have a consistent, knowledgeable team working on your audit.
Our People Matter
At our firm, we care deeply about our people. They are dedicated professionals who are committed to delivering high-quality service with integrity, accuracy, and care. When clients provide requested materials on time, our auditors are able to complete their work in a predictable, structured way. This allows them to maintain balance in their lives, avoid unnecessary stress, and stay energized and engaged in their work.
Timely PBCs are not just about audit efficiency. They are a critical component of protecting our team’s time, energy, and mental well-being.
The Cost of Delays
When clients are late providing information, our team can’t complete their work during the scheduled time. That often means late nights or weekends for our staff, contributing to burnout and turnover.
Furthermore, when information is late, our team ends up picking up and putting down the work repeatedly, causing inefficiencies. Sometimes higher-level team members have to step in when junior staff aren’t available, which drives up costs and can lead to incremental fees. It’s also unfair to other clients who are ready on time, because delays with one client can affect everyone else’s service.
Lastly, if deadlines are approaching and information is not provided on time, we may have to reassign tasks to whoever is available. That might mean a different team member who doesn’t have the same familiarity with your business. This creates inefficiencies because a new team member has to get up to speed, and that can slow down the process and increase costs.
A Shared Commitment
Just as you wouldn’t miss a doctor’s appointment and expect to walk in weeks later and be seen immediately, audit schedules rely on preparation and timeliness. We respectfully ask our clients to provide PBCs on time as a show of partnership, not just with our firm, but with the professionals who work hard to serve you.
Delivering PBCs on time helps us protect our people from burnout, ensures you receive a consistent and knowledgeable team, and allows us to provide the high level of service your organization deserves. Let’s work together to support the people behind your audit!
If you need further guidance or have any questions, we are here to help. Please do not hesitate to reach out to discuss your specific situation.
This material has been prepared for general, informational purposes only and is not intended to provide, and should not be relied on for, tax, legal or accounting advice. Should you require any such advice, please contact us directly. The information contained herein does not create, and your review or use of the information does not constitute, an accountant-client relationship.
