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 We Work is a service offered by 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.
Official References: MCA Filing Portal ↗ · SPICe+ Form ↗
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.
People Also Ask
What makes Virtual Auditor different?
Four credentials in one firm: FCA (financial expertise) + ACS (corporate governance) + CFE (forensic rigour) + IBBI RV (statutory valuation authority). 14+ years of multi-regulatory practice. 100+ IBBI-compliant valuations. This combination is rare in India.
Is the initial consultation free?
Yes. Free 30-minute consultation. Call +91 99622 60333 (Chennai), +91 9513939333 (Bangalore), +91 7700089597 (Mumbai), or email support@virtualauditor.in.
Need Help With This?
Free 30-minute consultation with CA V. Viswanathan, FCA, ACS, CFE, IBBI RV. No obligation.
Virtual Auditor vs Self-Filing vs Online Aggregators
When it comes to how we work, you have three choices: self-filing through government portals, using an online aggregator, or engaging a qualified CA firm like Virtual Auditor. Self-filing saves fees but risks errors that trigger notices and penalties. Online aggregators offer low-cost templated services but lack the expertise to handle complications. Virtual Auditor provides practitioner-level expertise with personalised attention — every engagement is supervised by CA V. Viswanathan (FCA, ACS, CFE, IBBI RV), ensuring accuracy, regulatory compliance, and strategic advisory that goes beyond mere filing.
Documents You Will Need
To initiate this engagement, please keep the following documents ready: PAN card of the entity or individual, Aadhaar card of the authorised signatory, proof of business address (rent agreement with NOC or ownership document with latest utility bill), bank account details or cancelled cheque, and any existing registrations or approvals relevant to the engagement. A detailed personalised document checklist will be provided after the initial consultation.
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.
This engagement illustrates Virtual Auditor's approach to how we work — combining regulatory expertise with practical execution to deliver results within the client's timeline.
When Is How We Work Not Required?
This service may not be required when: (a) the business structure or activity does not fall within the scope of the applicable regulation, (b) the entity already has equivalent compliance in place through a different mechanism, (c) the threshold for mandatory compliance has not been crossed, or (d) a specific exemption or exclusion applies to the entity's category.
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.
Penalties for Non-Compliance
Non-compliance can result in: (a) statutory penalties as prescribed under the applicable Act, (b) additional interest on delayed payments, (c) legal proceedings by the regulatory authority, (d) disqualification of directors/partners for repeated non-compliance, and (e) reputational damage and inability to obtain loans, contracts, or approvals from government agencies.
Proactive compliance is always cheaper than penalty. Contact Virtual Auditor for a compliance health check to identify and address any gaps before they become liabilities.
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.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does a typical valuation take?
Standard: 5-7 working days from data receipt. Express: 2-3 days with additional charge. Timeline depends on data availability and complexity. IBC valuations (CIRP) have statutory timelines and are prioritised accordingly.
What data do I need to provide?
Varies by engagement. For valuations: 3-5 years of financial statements, business plan, shareholding pattern, articles of association, and any previous valuation reports. For registration: PAN, Aadhaar, address proof, business address proof. We provide a detailed checklist at engagement.
Do you work with companies outside Chennai, Bangalore, and Mumbai?
Yes. All services are delivered pan-India. Valuations and advisory work are digital-first. For registrations and filings, we handle the complete process online regardless of your location. Physical meetings are available at our three offices.
What is your engagement process?
Free consultation → Engagement letter with fixed fee → Data collection → Execution → Draft delivery → Client review → Final report → Post-delivery support. Typical turnaround: 7-20 days depending on service.
How do you communicate during an engagement?
Dedicated point of contact assigned. WhatsApp/email for routine queries. Video calls for complex discussions. Weekly status updates for multi-week engagements. All communication documented.
What technology do you use?
Proprietary Valuation Engine Pro (18 methods, Monte Carlo), AI-assisted GST/IT analyser, compliance calendar platform, secure document exchange portal, and cloud-based collaboration tools.
Do you sign NDAs?
Yes. We execute NDAs for all engagements involving confidential business or financial information. Standard NDA provided at engagement. Client-specific NDA terms accepted.
What is post-delivery support?
30-day post-delivery support for queries, clarifications, and minor modifications. For valuations: support during regulatory review or investor queries. For appeals: support through hearing and order.