Final answer:
Audit evidence may be gathered from parties external to the auditee, the auditee themselves, computerized sources, and multiple sources including the underlying accounting data.
Step-by-step explanation:
When gathering audit evidence, it is important to ensure its reliability. There are several sources from which reliable audit evidence may be gathered:
- Parties external to the auditee: These are third parties who have relevant information or documentation that can support the audit process. Examples include banks, suppliers, and customers.
- The auditee: The auditee themselves can provide evidence in the form of financial statements, internal records, and other relevant documents.
- Computerized sources: With the increasing use of technology, auditors often gather evidence from computerized sources such as accounting software, databases, and electronic records.
- Many sources including the underlying accounting data: Auditors gather evidence from multiple sources, including the underlying accounting data. This may involve analyzing transactions, reviewing supporting documentation, and performing substantive testing.