The timing of the payment of audit fees is agreed between the company and the auditor. Some auditors require part of the audit fee to be paid up front with the rest paid as the audit progresses.
An audit is important as it provides credibility to a set of financial statements and gives the shareholders confidence that the accounts are true and fair.
Looking for something to do to while away the time on New Year’s Day? Why not join the 2,616 people who filed their 2017/18 tax returns on Christmas Day?!