Fiscal Year 2014 Assessment of DHS Charge Card Program Indicates Moderate Risk Remains

The Government Charge Card Abuse Prevention Act of 2012 requires the Office of Inspector General to conduct an annual risk assessment on agency charge card programs. We conducted this audit to determine whether the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) implemented sufficient internal controls to prevent illegal, improper, or erroneous purchases and payments. DHS conducts a large volume of business using government charge cards each fiscal year. In fiscal years 2012 through 2014, DHS had more than $400 million per year in purchase and travel card transactions. DHS did not ensure components established documented procedures to comply with DHS requirements on charge card use. In addition, DHS components did not have sufficient oversight plans to prevent improper use of charge cards. As a result, there remains a moderate level of risk that DHS’ internal controls will not prevent illegal, improper, or erroneous purchases.