General Info

Founded in 1921, the United States Government Accountability Office, also known as GAO, is an independent nonpartisan agency that works for the Congress. It conducts audits for government operations to determine whether federal funds are being spent efficiently and effectively. The agency also investigates the allegations of illegal and improper activities. The United States Government Accountability Office performs policy analysis, as well as issues documented legal decisions and opinions in the form of bid protest rulings and reports on various rules. It supports the Congress in meeting its constitutional responsibilities, as well as helps improve its performance. In addition, the United States Government Accountability Office investigates the way the federal government spends taxpayer dollars. The agency has a staff of more than 3,100 employees. Headquartered in Washington, D.C., the agency maintains a presence in Seattle.