Independent Oversight
GAO reports give lawmakers and the public a nonpartisan source of information about how tax dollars are being used.
In plain English
The GAO is Congress's watchdog that checks how federal agencies spend taxpayer money and reports back on what's working and what isn't.
Simple example
The GAO's annual 'High-Risk List' flags federal programs especially vulnerable to fraud, waste, or mismanagement, such as Medicare improper payments and Pentagon financial management.
Why it matters
What the term actually changes.
Identifies Savings
The agency estimates billions in potential savings each year by recommending changes to duplicative or inefficient federal programs.
How it works
The mechanics, in practice.
Congressional Requests
GAO investigations are typically launched at the request of congressional committees or required by statute.
Audits And Reports
Staff review agency records, interview officials, and analyze data, then publish findings with recommendations for improvement.
Follow-Up Tracking
The GAO tracks whether agencies implement its recommendations and reports back on compliance over time.