Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

USPS OIG

General

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Who does the IG report to?

He or she reports to the nine Governors and Congress, not Postal Service management.

What is the USPS OIG and how is it different from other OIGs?

The USPS OIG is the largest civilian IG office. It has the largest budget, more than $140 million; the largest force of Special Agents, nearly 500; and, in addition to authorities of all other IG offices, USPS OIG authorities include internal mail theft.

How is the USPS OIG different than the U.S. Postal Inspection Service?

The USPS OIG is an independent entity with a multi-faceted mission that includes investigative deterrence and detection of fraud, abuse, misconduct. Its audits evaluate and analyze the systems and processes for moving the mail, marketing, retailing postal products, investing in infrastructure, reporting financial data, and maximizing information technology. Finally, it has oversight responsibility for all activities of the Postal Inspection Service.

The Postal Inspection Service is responsible for all security issues and the investigation of external crimes such as robbery and burglary, as well as mail theft allegations coming from the public. Security responsibility includes workplace violence threats and incidents, dangerous mail threats, and non-IT security sabotage investigations involving both employees and non-employees.

What exactly is fraud, waste and misconduct?

Fraud is any knowing deception designed to unlawfully deprive the United States of something of value or to secure from the United States for a benefit, privilege, allowance, or consideration to which an individual(s) is not entitled.

Waste is the extravagant, careless, or needless expenditure of Government funds, or the consumption of Government property that results from deficient practices, systems, controls, or decisions.

Misconduct is intentional or improper use of Government resources. Examples include misuse of position, authority, or the misuse of resources such as tools, vehicles, or office equipment.

Who appoints the Inspector General?

The Inspector General is appointed by the nine presidentially-appointed Governors of the Postal Service. The Inspector General serves a term of 7 years - the only statutory Inspector General office with a set term.

What is the mission of the USPS OIG?

The U.S. Postal Service Office of Inspector General's (USPS OIG's) mission is to conduct and supervise objective and independent audits, reviews, and investigations relating to Postal Service programs and operations. The USPS OIG prevents and detects fraud, waste, and misconduct; promotes economy, efficiency, and effectiveness; promotes program integrity; and keep the Postal Service Governors, Congress, and Postal Service management informed of problems, deficiencies, and corresponding corrective actions.