Preparing bank confirmations for northern Taiwan lenders

Cash is often the easiest balance to understand and the hardest to clear on time. Confirmation letters sit with bank staff who have their own queues, especially after Chinese New Year.

Start by listing every account that appears in the trial balance, including dormant accounts and foreign-currency books. Auditors will ask why an account exists even if the balance is small. Omitting one creates a follow-up letter later.

Authorise the auditor in writing with each bank branch. Many northern Taiwan branches still prefer a paper authorisation with company chop. Prepare that letter in both Chinese and English if your auditor reports in English.

Track send dates. If a reply has not arrived within ten business days, escalate with the relationship manager rather than waiting until the draft report meeting. Soft copy PDF replies are acceptable when the bank stamps and signs the confirmation form.

Reconcile the confirmation totals to your ledger before the auditor does. Differences for outstanding cheques or deposits in transit should already appear on your cash cut-off schedule.