Background
The U.S. Postal Inspection Service, an investigative agency within the Postal Service, uses purchase cards for local buying of general goods and services when day-to-day operational needs cannot be satisfied. Expense purchase cards can be used to purchase items for events, including on-site or off-site official meetings, training, employee recognition and appreciation events, and all event-related expenses. However, cardholders must comply with policies and procedures, such as obtaining approval for purchases and maintaining accurate records for three years. Adhering to these policies is critical to ensure financial integrity and to maintain the public trust and reputation of the U.S. Postal Service and Postal Inspection Service.
What We Did
Our objective was to assess the U.S. Postal Inspection Service’s expense purchase card use. To accomplish our objective, we reviewed 379 purchase card transactions, valued at $367,462, and interviewed Postal Service and Postal Inspection Service Headquarters management.
What We Found
We found opportunities to improve the Postal Inspection Service’s management of the purchase card program. Specifically, Postal Inspection Service personnel made restricted purchases and purchases that may not align with the organization’s business needs. Also, the Postal Inspection Service did not enter awards and gifts presented to employees into the award system. Controls over purchase cards are important to prevent misuse and promote accountability.
Recommendations and Management’s Comments
We made one recommendation to address restricted purchases, and two recommendations related to tracking non-cash and cash equivalent items purchased and conducting periodic reviews. Postal Inspection Service management agreed with the finding and all three recommendations. Management’s comments and our evaluation are at the end of the finding and recommendations. The U.S. Postal Service Office of Inspector General (OIG) considers management’s comments responsive to all three recommendations, as corrective actions should resolve the issues identified in the report.
