Question

For each of the following independent situations, indicate whether there is an apparent internal control weakness, and, if one exists, suggest alternative procedures to eliminate the weakness. 1. John Smith is the petty cash custodian. John approves all requests for payment out of the $200 fund, which is replenished at the end of each month. At the end of each month, John submits to his supervisor a list of all accounts and amounts to be charged, along with supporting documentation. Once the supervisor indicates approval, a check is written to replenish the fund for the total amount. John's supervisor performs surprise counts of the fund to ensure that the cash and/or receipts equal $200 at all times. 2. All of the company's cash disbursements are made by check. Each check must be supported by an approved voucher, which is in turn supported by the appropriate invoice and, for purchases, a receiving document. The vouchers are approved by Dean Leiser, the chief accountant, after reviewing the supporting documentation. Betty Hanson prepares the checks for Leiser's signature. Leiser also maintains the company's check register (the cash disbursements journal) and reconciles the bank account at the end of each month. 3. Fran Jones opens the company's mail and makes a listing of all checks and cash received from customers. A copy of the list is sent to Jerry McDonald who maintains the general ledger accounts. Fran prepares and makes the daily deposit at the bank. Fran also maintains the subsidiary ledger for accounts receivable, which is used to generate monthly statements to customers.

Answer 1

Answer:

Weaknesses in the internal control and the alternative procedures to eliminate weaknesses:

1.

A weakness is created by the fact that John need only submit a list of accounts and amounts to be charged to replenish the petty cash fund. The supporting documentation for the petty cash disbursements also should be submitted with John?s list and reviewed by someone else. Surprise counts of the fund also should be made to ensure that the fund is being maintained on an impress basis, that is, to ensure that cash and/or receipts equal $200 at all times.

2.

The internal control system for disbursements does not contain sufficient separation of duties. Dean Leiser approves the vouchers, signs the checks, maintains the disbursement records, and reconciles the bank account. There should be at least one other person involved in these activities to ensure accuracy and to safeguard cash from expropriation.

3.

The internal control system for receipts does not contain sufficient separation of duties. Fran Jones has physical control of the deposits and also maintains the subsidiary ledger for accounts receivable. These duties should be separated. In addition, the company should require that customers pay their bills via check and that cash not be used.