How We Work

A clear process reduces friction and builds trust. Every Virtual Auditor engagement follows a structured workflow — from the initial consultation through scoping, engagement letter, data collection, execution, quality assurance, delivery, and post-delivery support. This transparency ensures you know exactly what to expect, when to expect it, and what your responsibilities are at each stage. Quick Answer: How We Work — Step-by-step engagement process: initial consultation, scoping, engagement letter, data collection, execution, report delivery, post-delivery support. Transparent timelines.

How does an engagement with Virtual Auditor work?

This page explains how engagements run at Virtual Auditor, an AI-powered CA and IBBI Registered Valuer firm (IBBI/RV/03/2019/12333) led by CA V. Viswanathan (FCA, ACS, CFE, IBBI RV), specialising in professional CA and CS services, from offices in Chennai, Bangalore, and Mumbai since 2012.

Process

Step 1: Free Initial Consultation (30 minutes)

Schedule a call or visit any of our three offices. We understand your requirements, identify the applicable regulatory framework(s), and advise on the appropriate approach. No commitment, no charge.

Step 2: Scoping & Quotation

Based on the consultation, we define the scope of work, applicable methods/frameworks, timeline, and deliverables. A detailed quotation with fixed fee (or retainer terms for ongoing engagements) is provided within 24 hours.

Step 3: Engagement Letter

A formal engagement letter is issued specifying scope, fees, timelines, confidentiality obligations, and client responsibilities (data provision, access, authorisations). Work begins only upon signed engagement letter and advance payment.

Step 4: Data Collection & Clarification

We provide a structured data requirement checklist specific to your engagement type. Our team coordinates data collection, identifies gaps, and requests clarifications. Typical turnaround for data collection: 3-5 working days depending on client responsiveness.

Step 5: Execution & Analysis

The substantive work: valuation modelling, regulatory analysis, appeal grounds drafting, forensic investigation, or compliance filing. This is where the 18-method valuation engine, Monte Carlo simulations, and AI-assisted tools come into play. We maintain regular communication on progress.

Step 6: Quality Assurance (V-QVA)

Every deliverable passes through the V-QVA quality gate before delivery. For valuations: cross-method validation, sensitivity analysis, statistical defensibility check, and regulatory compliance verification. For appeals: precedent verification, grounds consistency check, and economic analysis review.

Step 7: Delivery & Walkthrough

Final report/filing delivered with a detailed walkthrough session. We explain the methodology, key assumptions, sensitivity results, and conclusions. We answer questions and address any concerns before you rely on the deliverable.

Step 8: Post-Delivery Support

Support does not end at delivery. We handle: regulatory queries (if the authority questions the valuation), annual updates (ESOP revaluation, FEMA annual return), ongoing compliance (ROC filings, tax returns), and strategic advisory as your business evolves.

Recent Engagement — How We Helped

Context: a growing e-commerce startup that needed to transition from a sole proprietorship to a private limited company to raise angel funding.

Challenge: The business had existing GST registration, bank accounts, vendor contracts, and marketplace seller accounts all under the proprietorship. A smooth transition was needed without disrupting operations or losing marketplace seller ratings.

Our approach: We structured the transition as a business transfer under a slump sale arrangement, incorporated the new Pvt Ltd company, obtained fresh GST registration, and coordinated the transfer of all marketplace accounts. We handled FSSAI license transfer, updated all vendor agreements, and ensured GST continuity through proper input credit transfer under Section 18(1)(d).

Outcome: The entire transition was completed in 18 working days with zero disruption to daily operations. The angel round of Rs 75 lakhs closed within 6 weeks of incorporation. The company is now using our ongoing compliance service for annual filings, GST returns, and statutory audit.

When Is How We Work Not Required?

This page describes our engagement process. All services require an initial consultation to assess your requirements. Contact us for a 30-minute consultation.

If you are unsure whether your situation requires how we work, contact us for a free preliminary assessment. We will advise you honestly — including telling you if you do not need our services.

Updated for FY 2025-26

This service page reflects the latest regulatory requirements as of March 2026, incorporating changes from the Union Budget 2025, recent MCA notifications, CBDT/CBIC circulars, and RBI master directions applicable to how we work. Virtual Auditor continuously monitors regulatory updates to ensure all advice and filings are current.

Indicative Fee Structure

Our fees for how we work are transparent and competitive. We offer fixed-fee engagement models wherever possible, so you know the cost upfront. Pricing depends on the complexity of the engagement, entity type, and regulatory requirements involved. Contact us for a customised quote — initial consultation is free with no obligation.

Why Choose a CA Firm Over Self-Filing or Aggregators?

Self-filing through government portals is an option for straightforward cases, but it carries risks — incorrect classification, missed deductions, or procedural errors that can trigger notices and penalties. Online aggregators offer low prices but use templated approaches without understanding your specific regulatory situation. Virtual Auditor provides practitioner-grade expertise: every engagement is handled by qualified professionals (FCA, ACS, CFE, IBBI RV) who understand the regulatory nuances, anticipate complications, and provide ongoing support beyond the filing.