It can be quite confusing to understand when the auditing process must be completed by, as many assume it must be done by the expiration date noted on the certificate. However, the audit due dates are directly linked to previous certification dates.
For example, if an organization’s previous certification or recertification occurred before the certificate’s expiration date, the company must complete its audit for recertification by its previous certification date — not the expiration date. Missing this date will result in a potential to enter the suspension process.