An engagement letter refers to a legal document that defines the relationship between a business providing professional services and its clients. Engagement letters set the terms of the agreement between two parties and include details such as the scope, fees, and responsibilities, among others.
(drɑːft ˈlɛtə ) noun. the first version of a letter.
Engagement letters are a daily requirement in fields like law, accounting, and consulting. They serve as a formal agreement outlining the scope of work, terms, and conditions between a professional and their client. If you haven't drafted one already, chances are you'll need to in the future.
It should be included within the SOW. Engagement Letter: This is the actual contract, and once signed by both parties, will be the legal document governing the project moving forward. Both the SOW and Scope of Work need to be spelled out in the Engagement Letter.
Add the client's name and address beneath the date. Subject line. Clearly state the purpose of the letter. Introduction. Begin with a polite greeting, such as “Dear Client's Name.” ... Scope of services. Objectives. Responsibilities. Fees and payment terms. Duration of engagement. Confidentiality clause.
Letters of engagement are mandatory. On accepting an appointment, the practitioner must send the client a letter of engagement. This forms the basis of a contractual relationship between the practitioner and the client.
Engagement letters set the terms of the agreement between two parties and include details such as the scope, fees, and responsibilities, among others. Some of the benefits of engagement letters are that they are legally binding documents, they reduce misunderstandings, and they set clear expectations.
Your designated audit firm will prepare the specific terms of engagement using the appropriate AICPA-issued engagement letter template. It should be noted that there are many terms for audit engagements that are deemed required by the AICPA and therefore unable to be negotiated.