The service provider typically prepares the Letter of Engagement, be it a law firm, accounting agency, consultancy, or any professional offering services.
It is in the interests of both the entity and the auditor that the auditor sends an audit engagement letter before the commencement of the audit to help avoid misunderstandings with respect to the audit.
A letter of engagement is a legally binding document signed by both the business and the client. Much like a contract, it sets out the terms of an agreement to carry out a specific job, project, or service package between an organisation and its client.
In fact, in the event of a dispute, one of the first documents requested is the engagement letter. Engagement letters can help prevent a disagreement from growing to a claim. If a claim should arise, the existence of an engagement letter generally leads to lower claim severity.
Who Prepares a Letter of Engagement? An engagement letter is drafted by the company rendering the service, often with the help of a lawyer. It is than presented to the client, and both parties must sign in order for it to be legally binding.
What is a consulting engagement letter? A consulting engagement letter defines the work that will be done and the client expectations. It prevents scope creep and protects both, the consultant, and the client.
Engagement letters are important because they outline the expectations and responsibilities of both the bookkeeper and the client. They also help protect both parties in case of any disputes or misunderstandings, especially involving the scope of work to be completed.
Standard format for letters of engagement Addressee: Typically addressed to the senior management (e.g. CEO) of the client.
An engagement letter is a short agreement that outlines the scope of work, fees, and other important details, while a contract is a more comprehensive document that outlines the legal obligations of both parties and provides more detailed information about the project or service.
The engagement letter is a crucial document in any M&A transaction as it legally binds the client to the investment banker's services and stipulates the compensation structure. Without this agreement, the banker risks working without guarantee of payment.