When is it appropriate for auditors to test internal controls?

Auditors test internal controls primarily to evaluate the effectiveness of those controls in preventing or detecting material misstatements in the financial statements. When the risk assessment indicates that the controls are effective, auditors often proceed with testing those controls. This approach allows auditors to rely on the effectiveness of the internal controls when planning and executing their audit, which can contribute to a more efficient audit process.

Testing effective internal controls means that if the auditors find the controls operate as intended, they can reduce the nature, timing, and extent of substantive procedures. This reliance on robust controls can lead to a more streamlined audit approach and lessen the need for extensive substantive testing, ultimately saving time and resources while still providing assurance regarding the financial statements' accuracy.

In contrast, when risk assessment indicates that controls are ineffective, testing them may not yield benefits, as they cannot be relied upon. Legal requirements for testing controls might apply to certain regulatory frameworks, but they do not dictate general auditing practices. Similarly, management’s request does not inherently justify the need for testing internal controls unless it aligns with the risk assessment outcomes.