How should a nonprofit prepare for an audit?

Start by scheduling a pre-audit meeting, gathering PBC documents, reconciling accounts, organizing digital folders, and reviewing internal controls and policies. Cook CPA Group provides a 5-step checklist to guide you through the process.

What are PBC documents in a nonprofit audit?

PBC (Prepared by Client) documents are records the auditor will request, including trial balances, bank reconciliations, donor reports, grant agreements, and board minutes. Having these ready speeds up the audit.

How do I organize files for a nonprofit audit?

Use a digital folder system such as /Audit 2025/ with subfolders for Financials, Governance, Grants, and Supporting Docs. Clearly label everything for easy access by the auditor.

Why are internal controls important for nonprofit audits?

Auditors will test your internal controls to ensure proper financial oversight. Having documented and consistently followed procedures helps build trust and avoid audit findings.

Who can help with nonprofit audit preparation?

Cook CPA Group specializes in nonprofit audit readiness, including internal control reviews and year-end financial preparation. Contact us for a consult.

Ashley Chang, Business & Tax Analyst

As a Business & Tax Analyst, Ashley Chang brings a strong foundation in economics, accounting, and legal analysis to her work. She earned her B.A. in Economics with an emphasis on Economic History from UC Davis, where she also completed minors in Accounting and History. She later earned her Paralegal Certificate from American River College and is currently pursuing her J.D. at McGeorge School of Law.

Before joining the team, Ashley gained experience as a law clerk, conducting legal research, analyzing statutes and case law, reviewing contracts, and preparing legal memoranda. She has also worked directly with financial and case information, using Excel to organize and analyze complex data for client matters.

Ashley has a particular interest in tax law and enjoys the intersection of law, business, and finance. Her background in economics and accounting, combined with her legal education, allows her to approach business and tax matters from multiple perspectives. Detail-oriented and analytical, Ashley enjoys working through complex issues and information into clear, practical insights.

Outside of work and school, Ashley enjoys tutoring and working with children. She is also a second-degree black belt and previously worked as a martial arts instructor. She is fluent in spoken Mandarin Chinese and is currently learning to read and write the language. Ashley also enjoys spending time with her chocolate lab, Mocha, who happens to share her birthday.

Ashley Chang, Business & Tax Analyst

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