Purpose Investors, creditors, – governments, and others make decisions using reasonable information provided by others. In many cases, the users of this information have goals and objectives conflicting with those of the information’s producers, indicating the need for external auditors. Research design, data, and methodology – Competition in auditing has noticeably intensified globally, especially in developed countries. This means that auditors are striving to increase the efficiency of their methods. In recent years, risk-based auditing has become prominent among these efforts. In risk-assessment auditing, the auditor may directly affect the effectiveness and efficiency of the audit. Results – As a central framework, the risk assessment process improves audit quality and effectiveness such that the audit will lead to necessary changes. Previous studies have shown that risk assessment affects the nature, timing, and content of audit procedures. Conclusions – In the planning stage of an audit, audit risk assessment may identify any inappropriate or inefficient distribution of resources or determine whether the results of an audit will be ineffective or incorrect. Thus, assessing audit risk is a critical task.

• Shaban Mohammadi(Accounting, Hakim Nezami University of Quchan, Quchan)