GOVERNMENT ACCOUNTABILITY OFFICE Definition

Bookmark and Share

GOVERNMENT ACCOUNTABILITY OFFICE (GAO) is the organization in the U.S. Congress that investigates the performance of the federal government. GAO evaluates the use of public funds and the performance of federal programs, while also providing analytical, investigative and legal services in order to support to Congress in its policy formulation and decision making processes. Most GAO reports are initiated at the request of Congress, while some are initiated by the agency itself or are required by law.

Learn new Accounting Terms

RESERVE is an accounting entry that properly reflects contingent liabilities.

FREE CASH FLOW is net income plus non-cash charges to income, specifically depreciation and amortization less capital expenditures, to sustain the basic business. Free cash flow per share is a measure of the amount of cash per share a business generates after expenditures for equipment or buildings. Free cash flow is available to be used for expansion, dividends, reduction in debt, or other purposes. Free cash flow is valued more than just about any other measure, including earnings (EPS). Cash assists companies to expand, develop new products, stock buy back, pay dividends, or reduce debt. Many analysts focus on free cash flow for insight into the core of a company's cash-generating engine.

Suggest a Term

Enter Search Term

Enter a term, then click the entry you would like to view.