For higher education professionals, the annual audit process can feel like an intense period of juggling responsibilities, complying with evolving regulations, and making sure everything is in order. Under these conditions, even a dependable team can feel stretched. It’s understandable, then, that many institutions occasionally wonder if their auditor is providing the right kind of support and reassurance.
At McClintock & Associates, we’ve listened closely as new clients describe why they are switching auditors. Over time, certain patterns emerge—common reasons that prompt schools to seek a different kind of relationship. More often than not, these reasons center around a desire for proactive service, genuine understanding, and the confidence that arises when you know your audit partner is truly looking out for you.
If you find yourself reevaluating your current arrangement, here are a few signals that it might be time to consider a different approach.
Signals To Look For
1. Facing Unnecessary Stress from Last-Minute Requests
If the process often feels rushed—documents requested unexpectedly, deadlines looming without much notice—it can cause undue strain. A more attentive auditor organizes the year’s work thoughtfully, communicates timelines early, and ensures you feel prepared well before critical dates approach. Instead of feeling caught off guard, you can move through the season with greater calm and clarity.
2. Timely Completion and Early Reporting
If your audit consistently spans several months—beginning early in the year and only concluding right before the filing deadline—it can place undue pressure on everyone involved. Instead of rushing to finalize everything at the last moment, a thoughtful and proactive auditor establishes a clear, efficient timeline from the start. By issuing reports well in advance, you have ample time to review the findings, address any issues, and ultimately move forward with greater confidence. With this kind of forward-looking approach, the entire process becomes smoother, more manageable, and far less stressful.
3. Feeling Like Just Another Engagement Instead of a Valued Partner
Some institutions sense that their auditor simply “checks the box” once a year, rather than investing in a true relationship. But when you work in a highly regulated, complex environment, you need an auditor who takes the time to understand not only the rules but also your unique circumstances. Regular engagement, industry involvement, and meaningful communication create a more authentic connection—one where you feel supported, not just assessed.
4. Spending Too Much Time Getting Your Auditor Up to Speed
If your annual audit feels like starting over each time—re-explaining processes, reminding the auditor of your particular situation, and guiding them through Title IV requirements—it may be time for a partner who arrives prepared. A knowledgeable auditor brings specialized insight that requires fewer long explanations and more opportunities for productive, forward-looking conversations. Over time, this saves you effort and frees your team to focus on their core responsibilities.
5. Not Receiving the Help You Need Throughout the Year
Regulations and best practices don’t stand still once the audit is complete. If your auditor is hard to reach outside of peak audit periods, you may be missing valuable guidance when it’s needed most. With regular updates, timely resources, and open lines of communication, a supportive auditor ensures you’re never navigating changes on your own. This ongoing partnership reduces surprises and makes the annual audit feel like a natural part of a well-supported process.
Is It Time to Rethink Your Auditing Experience?
If any of these issues resonate, it may be worth exploring a firm that takes a more attentive, forward-thinking approach. At McClintock & Associates, we believe in building relationships founded on understanding, trust, and steady support—an approach that leaves you feeling more confident, informed, and prepared throughout the year.
Let's Chat
We’d be honored to talk through your experiences and see if our perspective aligns with what you’re looking for. Feel free to reach out if you’d like to learn more about how we can help bring greater ease and assurance to your auditing process.
