Single Audit Act: Overview, definition, and example
What is the Single Audit Act?
The Single Audit Act is a U.S. federal law that requires certain non-federal entities—like state and local governments, nonprofits, and educational institutions—to undergo a comprehensive audit if they spend $750,000 or more in federal funds in a fiscal year. The audit evaluates how those federal funds were managed and whether they were used in accordance with applicable laws and grant requirements.
Why is the Single Audit Act important?
The Act ensures accountability and transparency in the use of federal funding. It helps the federal government monitor compliance, prevent misuse, and identify risks across thousands of grant recipients. In contracts and grant agreements, a clause referencing the Single Audit Act signals that the recipient must comply with its audit requirements and provide access to records, if applicable. Noncompliance can result in funding being suspended or reclaimed.
Understanding the Single Audit Act through an example
A public university receives a $1.2 million federal research grant. Because it exceeds the $750,000 threshold, the university is subject to the Single Audit Act. Its contract with the granting agency includes a clause requiring it to maintain records and cooperate with auditors. During the audit, federal reviewers examine the university’s financial systems and grant spending to confirm compliance. If issues are found, the agency may impose corrective measures or require repayment.
Example of a Single Audit Act clause
Here’s how a Single Audit Act clause may look like in a federal grant agreement:
"If the Recipient expends $750,000 or more in federal awards during its fiscal year, it agrees to have a single or program-specific audit conducted in accordance with the Single Audit Act and 2 C.F.R. Part 200, Subpart F. The Recipient shall submit audit results to the Federal Audit Clearinghouse and make records available upon request."
Conclusion
The Single Audit Act clause ensures that entities receiving substantial federal funds are held to a uniform standard of financial accountability. If you're receiving or administering federal awards, understanding and complying with this requirement is essential to maintaining eligibility, avoiding penalties, and safeguarding future funding.
This article contains general legal information and does not contain legal advice. Cobrief is not a law firm or a substitute for an attorney or law firm. The law is complex and changes often. For legal advice, please ask a lawyer.