### Question
What is the definition of audit?


### Answer
The definition of **audit** is as follows in *15 U.S.C. § 7220*:

> an examination of the financial statements, reports, documents, procedures, controls, or notices of any issuer, broker, or dealer by an independent public accounting firm in accordance with the rules of the Board or the Commission, for the purpose of expressing an opinion on the financial statements or providing an audit report

#### Citation:
  - *15 U.S.C. § 7220*
  - Heading: **CHAPTER 98-PUBLIC COMPANY ACCOUNTING REFORM AND CORPORATE RESPONSIBILITY > SUBCHAPTER I-PUBLIC COMPANY ACCOUNTING OVERSIGHT BOARD**

