Glossary
Financial Reporting

Management Letter Response

By: Alec Hollingsworth
Updated:  
June 16, 2025

DEFINITION:

A Management Letter Response is management’s written reply to auditor recommendations, detailing corrective actions or clarifications.
A Management Letter Response is an official written reply from an organization's management to the recommendations and findings provided by external auditors in the management letter after an audit. The response addresses each issue raised, outlining corrective actions, timelines, or clarifications regarding processes and controls. It demonstrates management's commitment to rectifying deficiencies, improving internal controls, and ensuring compliance with accounting standards. The response is typically reviewed by the governing board or audit committee and can be referenced in future audits to assess progress on prior recommendations. A thorough and timely management letter response enhances accountability and transparency within the organization, helping maintain the trust of donors and stakeholders.

Key Takeaways

  • Documents management’s response to auditor findings
  • Outlines corrective actions and timelines
  • Enhances transparency and accountability
  • Reviewed by leadership and board

Why It Matters

It demonstrates accountability and commitment to improving financial processes.

Real World Example

After a nonprofit organization underwent its annual audit, the auditor issued a management letter highlighting concerns about the timeliness of expense approvals and inconsistent documentation. The organization's executive director prepared a Management Letter Response, agreeing to implement a new approval workflow by the next quarter and to retrain staff on documentation standards. This response was shared with the finance committee and uploaded to Aplos, where progress on the corrective actions was tracked and reported in future board meetings. The following year, auditors noted significant improvements, attributing them to the organization’s proactive response.

How Aplos Helps

Within Aplos, organizations can track audit findings and document their management letter responses for transparency. Storing responses and related corrective actions in Aplos helps nonprofits monitor progress, provide evidence of compliance, and streamline communication with auditors and board members.
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Frequently Asked Questions

What is a management letter in auditing?

A management letter is a document from auditors that outlines findings and recommendations after an audit, often highlighting areas for improvement in financial processes.

Why is a management letter response important?

It shows that management is taking auditors' recommendations seriously, planning corrective actions, and committing to better governance and compliance.

Who is responsible for preparing the management letter response?

The organization's management team, often led by the executive director or finance director, prepares the response for review by the board or audit committee.

How should nonprofits document their management letter responses?

Nonprofits should document responses in writing, outline specific actions and timelines, and store them in their accounting platform, such as Aplos, for tracking and reference.

Can management letter responses affect future audits?

Yes, future auditors review prior responses to assess whether recommendations were addressed and improvements were made.