Stock Audit Process and explained: this guide covers what it means, who it applies to, the step-by-step process, documents required, fees, due dates and penalties in India — so you can stay compliant with confidence and avoid costly mistakes.
A stock audit verifies the physical existence, quantity and valuation of inventory. Here is the process and a checklist.
Why it is done
- Confirm physical stock matches the books
- Detect shrinkage, theft or obsolescence
- Often required by banks for stock-based lending
Process
- Plan the count and cut-off
- Physically verify quantities
- Reconcile with book records and value at lower of cost or NRV
- Report discrepancies and recommendations
Checklist
Verify counts, valuation, slow-moving/obsolete stock, and reconciliation with the stock register and GST records.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a stock audit?
A verification of the physical existence, quantity and valuation of inventory.
Why do banks require a stock audit?
To confirm the stock backing a working-capital loan.
How is stock valued in an audit?
At the lower of cost or net realisable value.
What does a stock audit detect?
Shrinkage, theft, obsolescence and book-to-physical mismatches.
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