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Overview

Appointment or Resignation of Auditors

The appointment or resignation of auditors is a crucial compliance process for companies under the Companies Act, 2013. Auditors are responsible for ensuring the accuracy of financial records, adherence to regulatory standards, and transparency in corporate governance. Any appointment, resignation, or removal of an auditor must be formally approved by the Board of Directors and shareholders and reported to the Registrar of Companies (ROC) through prescribed forms.

Important

1. Regulatory Compliance : Ensures the company meets audit and financial reporting obligations under the Companies Act, 2013.

2. Financial Transparency : Independent auditors enhance credibility and investor confidence.

3. Legal Obligation : Non-compliance may result in penalties and legal consequences.

4. Corporate Governance : A proper audit process helps in fraud prevention and accountability.

5. Business Continuity : A smooth transition ensures uninterrupted financial audits and statutory filings.



Documents Required

For Appointment of Auditor


For Resignation of Auditor


For Removal of Auditor Before Term Completion




Features

Features & Benefits of Appointment or Resignation of Auditors

Mandatory Auditor Appointment
Every company, except small private companies, must appoint an auditor within 30 days of incorporation.
5-Year Term for Statutory Auditors
Auditors are usually appointed for five years, subject to shareholder approval.
ROC Filing Required for Every Change
Forms ADT-1, ADT-2, or ADT-3 must be filed for appointment, removal, or resignation.
Voluntary Resignation Allowed
An auditor can resign by submitting a formal resignation letter with reasons.
Central Government Approval
If an auditor is removed before the completion of tenure, government approval may be required.

Appointment or Resignation of Auditors

Corporate Transparency
Ensures financial accountability and regulatory adherence.
No Need for EGM in Some Cases
In private companies, auditor appointments can often be approved only by the Board.
Strict Eligibility Criteria
Auditors must meet the conditions under Section 141 of the Companies Act.
Mandatory Rotation for Companies
Listed and large private companies must change auditors every 5-10 years.
Impact on Financial Filings
Changes in auditors must be reflected in annual financial reports.



Comparison with Related Services

Feature Appointment of Auditor Resignation of Auditor Removal of Auditor Change in Financial Year
Governing Law Companies Act, 2013 Companies Act, 2013 Companies Act, 2013 Companies Act, 2013
Requires Board Resolution Yes Yes Yes Yes
Shareholder Approval Needed Sometimes No Yes Yes
ROC Filing Required Yes (ADT-1) Yes (ADT-3) Yes (ADT-2) Yes (MGT-7, AOC-5)
Special Resolution Required No No Yes Yes
Impact on Compliance Filings Yes Yes Yes Yes
Requires Central Govt. Approval No No Sometimes No
Ideal for Appointing a New Auditor Auditor Resigning Voluntarily Removing Auditor Before Term Ends Changing Financial Year



Frequently Asked Questions

Is it mandatory to appoint an auditor for every company?

Yes, except for small private companies with turnover below ₹50 lakh, all companies must appoint an auditor within 30 days of incorporation.

What is the tenure of an auditor?

An auditor is usually appointed for five years and can be reappointed based on shareholder approval.

How can a company remove an auditor before tenure completion?

A company must pass a Board Resolution, obtain Shareholder Approval (Special Resolution), and file Form ADT-2 with ROC. In some cases, Central Government approval may be required.

What happens if an auditor resigns mid-term?

The auditor must submit a resignation letter with reasons, and the company must file Form ADT-3 with the ROC within 30 days.

Can the same auditor be reappointed?

Yes, unless the company falls under the mandatory auditor rotation rule (for listed and large private companies).

What are the penalties for non-compliance with auditor appointments?

Failure to appoint an auditor within 30 days of incorporation may result in penalties of up to ₹5 lakh for the company and ₹50,000 for officers in default.

How long does it take to update the auditor details with the ROC?

It usually takes 7-15 days after filing Form ADT-1, ADT-2, or ADT-3.

Is shareholder approval required for every auditor change?

No, only for removal before term completion or appointment in certain cases.