CECL 2019: Finish strong, with confidence

Review steps for assessing CECL readiness

As companies evaluate their CECL readiness and complete the implementation, the calendar can be their most precious asset. As a result, the importance of conducting “parallel run” testing that is sufficient, effective, and informative cannot be overstated. Also imperative is an investor communication strategy that provides adequate transparency and enhances comparability between companies. Both require ample time to prepare—time that many companies are shrinking to save on costs.

To understand the scope of your CECL efforts in 2019, many companies can benefit from conducting a CECL readiness assessment now. It can serve to sharpen your organization’s focus and help identify potential gaps that may lead to costly and disruptive last-minute issues. It can also increase confidence that your CECL implementation program can deliver a timely, end-to-end CECL-compliant process.

Based on Deloitte’s end-to-end CECL implementation model and lessons learned in two years of client engagements, the following are actionable review steps companies can consider as they assess their CECL program and start the final sprint toward CECL adoption.

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Final thoughts

Clarity, focus, and confidence are crucial as CFOs and other senior executives educate the board of directors, engage in leadership conversations, and communicate with investors about the final stage of CECL implementation. As you look toward 2019, these final considerations can help you enhance your company’s CECL implementation efforts:

• Confirm that strong program management capabilities, transparency into the status of your company’s implementation plans, and adequate contingencies exist to deal with inevitable CECL uncertainties.

• Define a detailed parallel run plan that can demonstrate that everything and everyone involved in implementation are working together efficiently, offer insights into the CECL calculations, and build the necessary skills to carry on with the CECL program after the go-live date.

• Develop a robust communication strategy that can provide useful preadoption information, help investors understand your company’s CECL methodology and results, and prepare investors to better understand the company’s allowance.

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