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Professional Standards Navigator

This tool helps you identify the correct professional standards for various accounting and auditing engagements. Select an engagement type to see the governing rules.

Select an Engagement Type

Standard-Setting Body

Standard / Reference

Applies To

Description

The GAAS Hierarchy of Authority

SAS and PCAOB AS

These are mandatory standards. Language indicates the level of responsibility:

• "Must" or "Is Required": An unconditional requirement. Must be followed.
• "Should": A presumptively mandatory requirement. Must be followed unless a rare exception exists, which requires justification and alternative procedures.

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Interpretive Publications

These are recommendations on how to apply the standards. They are not auditing standards themselves, but an auditor must be able to explain any departures.

Examples: AICPA Audit and Accounting Guides, Auditing Interpretations of GAAS.

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Other Auditing Publications

These publications have no authoritative status but can be helpful. The auditor should be able to explain why they chose not to follow this guidance if applicable.

Examples: Journal of Accountancy articles, textbooks, CPE materials.

This simulation is for educational purposes and is based on the provided document. It simplifies complex professional standards and should not be used for professional decisions. Always refer to the official source documents from the AICPA and PCAOB.