How is a special audit characterized?

A special audit is characterized as unscheduled because it is typically conducted outside of the regular audit cycle or planned audits. This means that it can occur at any time, often in response to a specific concern, irregularity, or requirement for additional scrutiny. The purpose of a special audit is to address particular issues or to investigate concerns that arise unexpectedly, which distinguishes it from regular audits that follow a predetermined schedule, such as annual or semiannual audits. By being unscheduled, special audits allow for flexibility in timing and focus, enabling auditors to respond promptly to emerging situations.