IATF Rule on Reimbursement of Auditor Expenses

Reimbursements by Auditors

The IATF's new rule mandates that IATF 16949 auditors submit all their audit related expenses incurred while conducting IATF 16949 audits to their certification bodies for processing and reimbursement.

Validations by CBs

To ensure the integrity of the reimbursement process, certification bodies are responsible for conducting validation checks on auditor expenses, to ensure that the expenses are reasonable, in line with the certification body's established processes, and customary within the respective market.

Invoicing by CBs

All expenses related to the audit, including travel related expenses, will be invoiced to clients by the certification bodies, to improve transparency and impartiality.

Restriction to Clients

IATF strictly prohibits clients (audited organizations) from directly reimbursing auditors for expenses, including travel, meals, accommodation, or providing pre-paid travel, luxury accommodations, or other benefits. It aims to eliminate financial interactions that may compromise impartiality. 

Exception

a) As a exception, customary and typical meals provided by clients to the auditors during the course of audit are permitted. 

b) Out of convenience or safety concern, DQS considers it appropriate if a client provides typical local car transfers for the audit team, between airport, train/bus station, hotel and audit locations, as necessary for the audit.

About DQS

• DQS is the 1st Certification Body approved by IATF for ISO/TS 16949 certification service, which is replaced by IATF 16949 certification at present.
• Meanwhile, DQS Academy provides professional IATF 16949 Internal Auditor and Core Tools Training Courses.