Actions and Guidance Could Help Address Issues and Inconsistencies in Estimation Processes

Abstract

This publication describes six Federal agencies' processes to estimate improper payments in selected programs for fiscal year 2017 and the extent to which certain differences in these processes can affect the usefulness of the resulting estimates. Government Accountability Office (GAO) selected 10 programs across six agencies with the largest reported program outlays in fiscal years 2015 and 2016. For these programs, GAO reviewed relevant laws and guidance, analyzed agencies' policies and procedures, and interviewed officials at relevant agencies and OMB staff. GAO provided recommendations to the agencies