Signing by Other Member Firms
21.51 Audit teams may request the services of other member firms in connection with signature and “proofing” of registration statements and other filings. When it is anticipated that such services will be required, the receiving office should be contacted at the earliest possible time, informed of the situation and the firm’s responsibility, and furnished drafts of the financial statements together with any pertinent correspondence. Finally, as the signature date approaches, the engagement partner should make certain that the signing partner has ample notice of the time and place, an understanding of the filing and the people involved, and sufficient background information to properly represent the firm. It is the engagement partner’s responsibility to fully inform the signing partner. It should be noted that certain member firms have established “gatekeeping” policies and procedures.