Appointment of Cost Auditor by Companies

Appointment of cost auditor requires Audit Committee/Board approval, e-filing of Form 23C and deemed government approval.

Companies required to audit cost records must appoint a qualified cost accountant as cost auditor, with the Audit Committee (or Board where no committee exists) ensuring statutory eligibility, independence certification, and compliance with engagement limits. The company must e-file Form 23C with prescribed attachments and fee within the prescribed period; the filing is deemed approved absent contrary direction within thirty days, subject to resubmission if required. Following deemed approval the company issues the appointment letter and the cost auditor must notify the Central Government; companies must disclose auditor details and report filing dates in the Annual Report. Penalties apply for defaults by companies, officers, and auditors.