‍

⏲️ AGAR Submission Deadline for 23/24:

The AGAR needs to be submitted to external auditor and unaudited AGAR along with supporting docs published online by 30th June 2024, but you will need a council meeting beforehand to sign off final figures.

The deadline for submitting your completed and signed AGAR to your External Auditor is now set for Monday, 1st July 2024. Given the importance of adherence to this deadline, it's vital to mark this in your calendar to avoid unnecessary penalties.

‍

⚠️ Final Reminder:

Ensure your AGAR is submitted by the 1st of July 2024 and that your Exercise of Public Rights Notice is accessible on your website. This year, no extensions beyond 31st July 2024 will be granted, highlighting the importance of prompt action and compliance.

‍

💰 Fines for Late Submission:

Authorities that fail to meet the submission deadline are subject to chargeable chaser letters, costing £40 plus VAT for financially active smaller authorities. This reinforces the need for timely submission to avoid financial penalties.

📆 Exercise of Public Rights Notice:

Though not explicitly updated in the recent guidelines, maintaining awareness and compliance with the suggested timeframe for the Exercise of Public Rights Notice remains essential. Ensure this notice is prominently displayed on your Council's website within the statutory periods to uphold transparency.

🚫 Exemption Criteria:

For councils seeking exemption from the External Audit, the financial thresholds remain as follows:

1. Total income (Box 2 + 3) is less than £25k.

2. Total expenditure (Box 4 + 5 + 6) is less than £25k.

Eligible councils must complete the Exemption Certificate and comply with the Transparency Code for Smaller Authorities.

❌ Common Errors and Variances:

The explanation of variances continues to be a stumbling block for many. It's crucial to articulate these with both qualitative and quantitative details, erring on the side of providing more in Explanation of variances

We would like to draw your attention to Paragraph 2.35 of the Joint Panel on Accountability and Governance Practitioners’ Guide (JPAG).  This states that smaller authorities are required to provide ‘a sufficiently detailed and meaningful analysis and explanation of the reasons for the change’ formation rather than less to facilitate a smooth audit process.

💰 Trust Funds Update:

The presentation of Trust Funds within the AGAR has been refined. Authorities must now delineate AGAR figures that include Trust Funds into two separate declarations, enhancing clarity and accountability.

💻 The Future is Digital:

The possibility of transitioning to digital AGAR submissions is on the horizon, its a move currently being explored by SAAA for its ability to streamline processes

If you want to future proof yourself by going digital, then have a look at Scribe Accounts.

‍