All companies, regardless of size, structure, nature, or industry, encounter risks at all levels within their organization. In their 2018 Report to the Nations, the Association of Certified Fraud Examiners (ACFE) reported that internal control weaknesses were responsible for nearly half of all frauds reported. Internal Controls Toolkit is an authoritative and comprehensive book that outlines the standards of internal controls that organizations (of all types and sizes) can use to mitigate risk. Designed as a practical resource, the book offers a guide for putting in place effective controls in order to provide reliable, timely, and useful financial and managerial data that is critical for supporting operating, budgeting, and policy decisions.

The author--a noted expert on the topic--takes a toolkit approach that includes detailed information on controls and risks outlined for key business processes. The book offers background information on the history of internal controls, recommendations for developing a series of risk-based controls, proven ideas for implementing internal controls, and includes the metrics to use when measuring results. The author explores how to establish the three most critical corporate controls: segregation of duties; systems access; and delegation of authority. Filled with best practices for each step in the internal control process, the book examines the COSO model at the heart of many internal controls systems and Sarbanes-Oxley efforts in the corporate environment.

In addition, the book offers direction for being in compliance with SOX 404 initiatives, guidance for companies undergoing merger and acquisition projects, and suggestions for implementing Control Self-Assessment (CSA), Continuous Controls Monitoring (CCM), and other self-audit initiatives.

Internal Controls Toolkit is the hands-on resource for any organization that wants to achieve operational effectiveness and efficiency, reliable financial reporting, and compliance with laws, regulations, and policies.