Certified Internal Auditor (CIA) Practice Test

Which of the following approaches is most useful for collecting evidence of compliance with a loan agreement?

1. Observing management practices.

2. Reviewing contractual terms.

3. Interviewing loan officers.

4. Contacting previous clients.

The correct answer is: Reviewing contractual terms.

The choice of reviewing contractual terms is the most useful approach for collecting evidence of compliance with a loan agreement because it directly involves analyzing the specific stipulations and obligations outlined in the loan agreement itself. This method allows for a clear and focused review of the terms that the borrower is legally bound to follow, such as payment schedules, interest rates, and any covenants related to financial performance or actions to be undertaken by the borrower. By examining the contractual terms, one can verify whether the conditions of the loan have been met, such as the punctuality of payments and adherence to any operational requirements stipulated. This process not only provides a definitive reference point for compliance but also helps identify any potential breaches or areas of concern that may need further investigation. In contrast, observing management practices might provide insights into how operations are run, but it does not directly demonstrate compliance with specific loan terms. Interviewing loan officers could yield useful perspectives on the loan management process, however, it relies heavily on subjective viewpoints rather than objective evidence. Finally, contacting previous clients may provide anecdotal insights into prior compliance issues or experiences, but it does not offer direct evidence related to the current compliance status of the loan agreement in question. Thus, reviewing contractual terms is the most effective method for ensuring