If you’ve been through a few 401(k) audits, you know the routine. But for Kyle Mishler, Director of Operations at Civiltech Engineering, Inc., audit prep isn’t just a once-a-year task—it’s part of how she stays organized year-round.
We sat down with Kyle (a long-time Cassell Plan Audits client) to hear her best time-saving tips for getting through the annual 401(k) audit as smoothly as possible. Here’s what she had to say.
1. Stay organized year-round
The number one way to save time during an audit? Don’t wait until the auditor’s request list arrives.
“I save everything by year,” Kyle said. “When they reach out, I have everything in one spot.”
Her system is simple: a dedicated subfolder for the audit, where she stores anything that might come up. Even if she’s not sure it’ll be needed, she saves it anyway. “If I think it’s a possibility, I’ll throw a copy of it in there, just because it’s easier to delete than it is to go try and find whatever I need later,” she explained.
That level of proactivity means no last-minute scrambling—and a lot less stress.
➡️ For more time-saving tips, check out How to streamline your 401(k) plan audit.
2. Embrace electronic documentation
Gone are the days of paper personnel files—at least at Civiltech.
“We went from paper personnel files to electronic, and that has made things a lot easier,” Kyle said.
Scanning and digitally storing key documents like I-9 forms, participant notices, and payroll records means she can pull up files instantly when questions arise. No more digging through filing cabinets or tracking down signed paper copies.
If you still hold onto paper processes, a phased transition to electronic files could make your life (and your audit) that much easier.
3. Learn from past experiences
After several audits, Kyle has learned to anticipate what’s coming. She’s familiar with the types of documentation auditors tend to ask for, and she’s ready with the story behind any exceptions or plan updates.
“I like to think that we run our plan pretty clean,” she said. “Anytime we have an issue, we just put a note or a copy of whatever corrective documentation in our audit folder.”
Whether it’s a plan amendment, a late deposit, or an eligibility correction, flagging and documenting it early helps avoid confusion later.
➡️ New to the process? Start with How to prepare for your first 401(k) audit.
4. Build a collaborative relationship
One of the things Kyle appreciates most is the way the audit process has evolved into a true partnership.
“It’s almost like, how are we going to tackle this? What’s the easiest way to get there?” Kyle knows she can reach out to JoAnn and the team at Cassell Plan Audits whenever she has a question.
When something looks off, she doesn’t panic—she collaborates. “I feel like they know the quality of work that we typically produce,” she said. “So if something’s not working, let’s sit down and figure it out.”
That open, cooperative mindset helps move things forward faster and makes the process feel less like a chore.
Bonus time-saving tip: Don’t wait until the last minute
Kyle’s final piece of advice? Get the audit out of the way as early in the year as you can.
It clears the deck for other time-sensitive responsibilities and gives you more time to respond to questions—without the pressure of other deadlines piling up.
➡️ Want a quick refresher before audit season hits? Save our Quick & easy checklist for your next 401(k) audit.
At Cassell Plan Audits, we’re here to make your audit experience easier—not just once a year, but throughout the year. From seasoned pros like Kyle to sponsors preparing for their very first audit, we’re proud to support teams with clear guidance and a collaborative approach.
Need help streamlining your next audit? Let’s talk.
Photo provided by Civiltech Engineering, Inc.
