Tax Season is Upon Us    

January 29, 2025

The Internal Revenue Service (IRS) has released its official Tax Guide 2024, now available for pre-order through the Government Publishing Office (GPO) Bookstore.

Your Federal Income Tax for Individuals,” also known as IRS Publication 17, is a comprehensive guide published by the IRS that provides information about filing federal income tax returns for individuals.

Your Federal Income Tax for Individuals, IRS Publication 17, 2024, begins with the rules for filing a tax return.  It explains who must file a return, which tax form to use when the return is due, how to e-file your return, and other general information.

It provides guidelines for filing a federal income tax return, which includes information on:

  • Identifying your filing status (single, married, filing jointly, etc.)
  • Determining what income is taxable
  • Claiming dependents
  • Calculating your tax liability
  • Taking deductions and credits

It supplements the information contained in your tax form instructions. It provides additional details and explanations to help you understand the tax forms.

The GPO Online Bookstore – Easy Access to Federal Publications

HOW DO I OBTAIN THIS RESOURCE?

Sign up to receive promotional bulletin emails from the US Government Online Bookstore.

Shop Online Anytime: You can buy a vast majority of eBooks or print publications —with FREE Standard Shipping worldwide— from the U.S. Government Online Bookstore at https://bookstore.gpo.gov.

Order by Phone or Email: Call our Customer Contact Center Monday through Friday, 8 am to 4:30 pm Eastern (except US Federal holidays). From US and Canada, call toll-free 1.866.512.1800. DC or International customers call +1.202.512.1800.

Visit a Federal depository library: Search for U.S. Government publications in a nearby Federal depository library. You can find the records for most titles in GPO’s Catalog of U.S. Government Publications.

Find more than a million official Federal Government publications from all three branches at www.govinfo.gov.

About the author: Blogger Trudy Hawkins is the Senior Marketing & Promotions Specialist in GPO’s Publication & Information Sales Office supporting the U.S. Government Online Bookstore (https://bookstore.gpo.gov).


Helpful Citizenship and Immigration Resources

January 24, 2025

The GPO Bookstore offers valuable resources on citizenship and immigration from the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS). The following best-selling resources provide essential information for individuals seeking to become American citizens.

Preparing For the Naturalization Test: A Pocket Study Guide. If you were not born in the United States, naturalization is how you can voluntarily become a U.S. citizen. To become a naturalized U.S. citizen, you must pass the naturalization test. This pocket study guide will help you prepare for the naturalization test. It provides civics test questions, answers, and reading and writing vocabulary to help you study.

Civics Flash Cards for the Naturalization Test. There’s no better way to learn the basics of the U.S. naturalization test than this 100 questions and answers deck of flash cards. These updated civics flash cards will help you study for the U.S. naturalization test. Whether you are an immigrant reviewing facts for the naturalization test or an individual who may want a refresher about the American government and history, this flash card set is a great educational tool to use. Also available in Spanish.

Why USCIS publications are helpful:

  • Accurate and Reliable: These publications from USCIS provide the most up-to-date and accurate information.
  • Test-Specific: The easy-to-understand resources cover the topics tested on the naturalization interview, including:
    • U.S. history and government: Learn about key events, documents, and principles that shape the United States.
    • Civics questions: Prepare for the oral civics test by studying the 100 questions and answers.
    • English language skills: Improve your reading, writing, and speaking abilities through practice exercises.

By studying and utilizing the available resources from the USCIS, you can improve your chances of passing the citizenship test and achieving your dream of becoming a U.S. citizen.

The GPO Online Bookstore – Easy Access to Federal Publications

HOW DO I OBTAIN THESE RESOURCES?

Sign up to receive promotional bulletin emails from the US Government Online Bookstore.

Shop Online Anytime: You can buy a vast majority of eBooks or print publications —with FREE Standard Shipping worldwide— from the U.S. Government Online Bookstore at https://bookstore.gpo.gov.

Order by Phone or Email: Call our Customer Contact Center Monday through Friday, 8 am to 4:30 pm Eastern (except US Federal holidays). From US and Canada, call toll-free 1.866.512.1800. DC or International customers call +1.202.512.1800.  Email orders to ContactCenter@gpo.gov

Visit a Federal depository library: Search for U.S. Government publications in a nearby Federal depository library. You can find the records for most titles in GPO’s Catalog of U.S. Government Publications.

Find more than a million official Federal Government publications from all three branches at www.govinfo.gov.

About the author: Blogger contributor Ed Kessler is a Promotions Specialist in GPO’s Publications and Information Sales Office.

Images and additional content provided by Government Book Talk Editor Trudy Hawkins. Trudy is the Senior Marketing & Promotions Specialist in GPO’s Publication & Information Sales Office supporting the U.S. Government Online Bookstore (https://bookstore.gpo.gov).


Popular Subscriptions: FAA Safety Briefing

January 14, 2025

For the last few months, we have featured several of our popular subscription journals, which provide a wide-ranging intellectual forum for discussing policy, regulatory updates, and more.

The FAA Safety Briefing is your guide to aviation safety. Published by the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), it provides updates on major Federal Aviation Administration rule changes and proposed changes, as well as refresher information on flight rules, maintenance airworthiness, avionics, accident analysis, and other topics. It is a must-have for pilots, air traffic controllers, airplane maintenance personnel, and anyone involved in ensuring flying safety.

Why Subscribe?

The FAA Safety Briefing offers a unique blend of expert analysis, engaging storytelling, and practical guidance. Whether you’re a seasoned pilot or just starting your aviation journey, this journal provides valuable insights that can help you:

  • Enhance your safety awareness: Stay informed about the latest safety issues and learn to mitigate potential risks.
  • Improve your piloting skills: Gain valuable knowledge and insights from experienced aviators and safety professionals.
  • Stay current with industry best practices: Learn the latest technologies and procedures to enhance your flight operations.

Sign up for a subscription today!

The GPO Online Bookstore – Easy Access to Federal Publications

HOW DO I OBTAIN THESE RESOURCE?

Sign up to receive promotional bulletin emails from the US Government Online Bookstore.

Shop Online Anytime: You can buy a vast majority of eBooks or print publications —with FREE Standard Shipping worldwide— from the U.S. Government Online Bookstore at https://bookstore.gpo.gov.

Order by Phone or Email: Call our Customer Contact Center Monday through Friday, 8 am to 4:30 pm Eastern (except US Federal holidays). From US and Canada, call toll-free 1.866.512.1800. DC or International customers call +1.202.512.1800.  Email orders to ContactCenter@gpo.gov

Visit a Federal depository library: Search for U.S. Government publications in a nearby Federal depository library. You can find the records for most titles in GPO’s Catalog of U.S. Government Publications.

Find more than a million official Federal Government publications from all three branches at www.govinfo.gov.

About the author: Trudy Hawkins is Government Book Talk Editor and Senior Marketing & Promotions Specialist in GPO’s Publication & Information Sales Office, supporting the U.S. Government Online Bookstore (https://bookstore.gpo.gov).


Honoring Our Heroes: National Law Enforcement Appreciation Day

January 7, 2025

January 9 is National Law Enforcement Appreciation Day (LE.A.D.), a day to express gratitude to the men and women who dedicate their lives to protecting our communities. From local police officers to Federal agents, these brave individuals face danger daily to keep us safe.

The Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) is an agency deserving special recognition. The DEA’s work is vital in protecting our youth from the devastating consequences of drug abuse. By disrupting drug supply chains and conducting public awareness campaigns, the DEA plays a crucial role in creating a healthier and safer society for all.

To commemorate its 50th anniversary, the DEA recently released a comprehensive history book detailing its crucial role in combating the drug epidemic.

DEA Museum 50th Anniversary History Book takes readers from the events leading up to DEA’s establishment in 1973 to its challenges and accomplishments in 2023, offering a chronological overview of DEA’s growth and mission to enforce the nation’s drug laws. This new edition includes new chapters, extensive revisions and updates to previous content, and hundreds of full-color photos. DEA’s history is preceded by introductory comments from the Administrator and a “Wall of Honor” section that pays tribute to DEA personnel lost in the line of duty.

Some of the topics covered in the book include:

  • The creation of the DEA in 1973
  • The DEA’s role in the War on Drugs
  • Major drug trafficking organizations
  • The DEA’s international operations

Let’s take this opportunity to express our deepest appreciation for the DEA and all law enforcement officers who serve and protect our communities daily.

The GPO Online Bookstore – Easy Access to Federal Publications

HOW DO I OBTAIN THIS RESOURCE?

Sign up to receive promotional bulletin emails from the US Government Online Bookstore.

Shop Online Anytime: You can buy a vast majority of eBooks or print publications —with FREE Standard Shipping worldwide— from the U.S. Government Online Bookstore at https://bookstore.gpo.gov.

Order by Phone or Email: Call our Customer Contact Center Monday through Friday, 8 am to 4:30 pm Eastern (except US Federal holidays). From US and Canada, call toll-free 1.866.512.1800. DC or International customers call +1.202.512.1800.  Email orders to ContactCenter@gpo.gov

Visit a Federal depository library: Search for U.S. Government publications in a nearby Federal depository library. You can find the records for most titles in GPO’s Catalog of U.S. Government Publications.

Find more than a million official Federal Government publications from all three branches at www.govinfo.gov.

About the author: Trudy Hawkins is Government Book Talk Editor and Senior Marketing & Promotions Specialist in GPO’s Publication & Information Sales Office, supporting the U.S. Government Online Bookstore (https://bookstore.gpo.gov).


Discover the Cosmos: NEW 2025 NASA Science Calendar

December 31, 2024

Embark on a celestial journey through the universe’s wonders with the official 2025 NASA Science Calendar. Each month, immerse yourself in breathtaking images captured by NASA’s cutting-edge telescopes and spacecraft. From distant galaxies to the rugged terrain of Mars, this calendar offers a front-row seat to the marvels of space exploration.

Benefits of 2025 NASA Science Calendar:

  • Stunning Imagery: Adorn your walls with awe-inspiring photographs of nebulas, planets, and celestial phenomena.
  • Informative Captions: Learn fascinating facts about space science and the missions behind the images.
  • Practical Design: Convenient monthly calendar format to keep you organized throughout the year.
  • Perfect Gift: Surprise space enthusiasts of all ages with a unique and educational gift.
  • Stay Informed: It’s a great way to stay informed about NASA’s latest discoveries and missions.

Other exciting revelations about the experiences of space exploration include:

The Sun, the Earth, and Near-Earth Space: A Guide to the Sun-Earth System. This colorful book provides concise explanations and descriptions that are easily read and readily understood of what is now known about the chain of events and processes that connect the Sun to the Earth, with special emphasis on space weather and sun-climate.

Hubble Science Year in Review Book and Companion Poster. This historic companion set describes the history and accomplishments of the Hubble space telescope. Includes color photographs and diagrams.

Don’t miss this opportunity to bring the universe into your home. Order your 2025 NASA Science Calendar today!

The GPO Online Bookstore – Easy Access to Federal Publications

HOW DO I OBTAIN THIS RESOURCE?

Sign up to receive promotional bulletin emails from the US Government Online Bookstore.

Shop Online Anytime: You can buy a vast majority of eBooks or print publications —with FREE Standard Shipping worldwide— from the U.S. Government Online Bookstore at https://bookstore.gpo.gov.

Order by Phone or Email: Call our Customer Contact Center Monday through Friday, 8 am to 4:30 pm Eastern (except US Federal holidays). From US and Canada, call toll-free 1.866.512.1800. DC or International customers call +1.202.512.1800.  Email orders to ContactCenter@gpo.gov

Visit a Federal depository library: Search for U.S. Government publications in a nearby Federal depository library. You can find the records for most titles in GPO’s Catalog of U.S. Government Publications.

Find more than a million official Federal Government publications from all three branches at www.govinfo.gov.

About the author: Blogger contributor Ed Kessler is a Promotions Specialist in GPO’s Publications and Information Sales Office.

Images and additional content provided by Government Book Talk Editor Trudy Hawkins. Trudy is the Senior Marketing & Promotions Specialist in GPO’s Publication & Information Sales Office supporting the U.S. Government Online Bookstore (https://bookstore.gpo.gov).


The Plum Book: A Guide to Federal Government Positions

December 23, 2024

With the change of administration, learn about presidential appointments and other positions within the federal government in the new 2024 United States Government Policy and Supporting Positions, or the “Plum Book,” now available from the U.S. Government Bookstore.

What is the Plum Book? Known officially as the “United States Government Policy and Supporting Positions,” the Plum Book is published alternately by the Senate Committee on Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs or by the House Committee on Oversight and Government Reform. The 2024 edition lists over 8,000 civil service leadership and support positions (filled and vacant) in the Legislative and Executive branches of the Federal Government that may be subject to noncompetitive appointments.

Why is the Plum Book Important? The Plum Book is a crucial resource for understanding the inner workings of the federal government. It highlights the positions directly involved in shaping and implementing government policy. These positions are often filled by individuals closely aligned with the political party in power, making the Plum Book a valuable tool for analyzing the political landscape and the potential impact of policy changes.

The Plum Book serves several crucial purposes:

  • Presidential Transition: It aids in the smooth transition of power between administrations by providing a comprehensive list of key positions and their associated duties.
  • Public Transparency: The Plum Book promotes transparency by making information about federal government positions accessible to the public.
  • Career Development: It can be a valuable resource for individuals interested in pursuing careers in federal government service, providing insights into potential career paths and the qualifications needed to advance.

What Types of Positions are Listed in the Plum Book?

  • Executive Schedule and salary-equivalent positions paid at the rates established for Levels I through V of the Executive Schedule.
  • Senior Executive Service “General” positions (i.e., those positions which may be filled by a career, non-career, or limited appointment)
  • Senior Foreign Service positions
  • Schedule C positions excepted from the competitive service by the President or the Director, Office of Personnel Management, because of the confidential or policy-determining nature of the position duties.
  • Other confidential or policy-determining positions at the GS-14 and above level excepted from the competitive civil service by law because of the confidential or policy-determining nature of the position duties.

The GPO Online Bookstore – Easy Access to Federal Publications

HOW DO I OBTAIN THIS RESOURCE?

Sign up to receive promotional bulletin emails from the US Government Online Bookstore.

Shop Online Anytime: You can buy a vast majority of eBooks or print publications —with FREE Standard Shipping worldwide— from the U.S. Government Online Bookstore at https://bookstore.gpo.gov.

Order by Phone or Email: Call our Customer Contact Center Monday through Friday, 8 am to 4:30 pm Eastern (except US Federal holidays). From US and Canada, call toll-free 1.866.512.1800. DC or International customers call +1.202.512.1800.  Email orders to ContactCenter@gpo.gov

Visit a Federal depository library: Search for U.S. Government publications in a nearby Federal depository library. You can find the records for most titles in GPO’s Catalog of U.S. Government Publications.

Find more than a million official Federal Government publications from all three branches at www.govinfo.gov.

About the author: Trudy Hawkins is Government Book Talk Editor and Senior Marketing & Promotions Specialist in GPO’s Publication & Information Sales Office, supporting the U.S. Government Online Bookstore (https://bookstore.gpo.gov).


Unique and Thoughtful Gift Ideas

December 12, 2024

The holidays are fast approaching. If you’re searching for that special gift, let the federal government help with popular, practical, and unique gift ideas. This year, consider gifts that spark curiosity, inspire learning, and celebrate our beautiful planet. From space enthusiasts to nature lovers and young learners, we’ve covered you with these out-of-this-world gift ideas.

Here are popular gift ideas from the U.S. Government Bookstore that will delight everyone on your list.

The 2025 NASA Science Calendar is a must-have for the space enthusiast in your life. This calendar features stunning images of planets, galaxies, and astronauts and is a daily reminder of the universe’s wonders. It’s a great way to stay organized and get inspired.

Outdoor lovers can bring the beauty of nature into their homes with beautiful National Park posters. With choices ranging from the iconic Rocky Mountains to Canyon Country National Park and more, these posters are perfect for framing and displaying in any room. They’re a great conversation starter and a reminder of the importance of preserving our natural heritage.

For the little ones in your life, the Discover MyPlate activity booklets are a fun and educational way to learn about healthy eating. These booklets help build literacy and teach kids about different food groups and portion sizes. They’re a great way to encourage healthy habits while having fun.

These gifts will surely be a hit with people of all ages. They’re perfect for anyone who loves learning, exploring, and appreciating the beauty of our planet.

HOW DO I OBTAIN THESE RESOURCES?

Sign up to receive promotional bulletin emails from the US Government Online Bookstore.

Shop Online Anytime: You can buy a vast majority of eBooks or print publications —with FREE Standard Shipping worldwide— from the U.S. Government Online Bookstore at https://bookstore.gpo.gov.

Order by Phone or Email: Call our Customer Contact Center Monday through Friday, 8 am to 4:30 pm Eastern (except US Federal holidays). From US and Canada, call toll-free 1.866.512.1800. DC or International customers call +1.202.512.1800.  Email orders to ContactCenter@gpo.gov

Visit a Federal depository library: Search for U.S. Government publications in a nearby Federal depository library. You can find the records for most titles in GPO’s Catalog of U.S. Government Publications.

Find more than a million official Federal Government publications from all three branches at www.govinfo.gov.

About the author: Blogger contributor Ed Kessler is a Promotions Specialist in GPO’s Publications and Information Sales Office.

Images and additional content provided by Government Book Talk Editor Trudy Hawkins. Trudy is the Senior Marketing & Promotions Specialist in GPO’s Publication & Information Sales Office supporting the U.S. Government Online Bookstore (https://bookstore.gpo.gov).


Honoring the Pioneers: Aviation History Month

November 19, 2024

November is Aviation History Month, a time to celebrate the incredible advancements in aviation and the pioneers who made it possible. From the Wright brothers’ historic flight to the supersonic jets of today, aviation has revolutionized how we travel, communicate, and explore the world.

The Wright brothers, Orville and Wilbur, are often credited with inventing, building, and flying the world’s first successful motor-operated airplane. Their groundbreaking achievement in 1903 marked the beginning of a new era, paving the way for the development of modern aviation.

First Flight: The Wright Brothers and the Invention of the Airplane, from the National Park Service, offers a comprehensive history of the Wright Brothers. It vividly depicts the brothers’ distinct personalities, while a series of graphic features trace their progress towards developing a practical flying machine. The book also features a foreword by astronaut John Glenn and a colorful foldout illustrating the 1903 Wright Flyer.

Today, aviation continues to push the boundaries of technology and innovation. Aviation has become integral to our lives, from commercial airliners to military aircraft and drones to spacecraft. As we reflect on the past, let’s also look forward to the future of flight and its exciting possibilities.

The GPO Online Bookstore – Easy Access to Federal Publications

HOW DO I OBTAIN THIS RESOURCE?

Sign up to receive promotional bulletin emails from the US Government Online Bookstore.

Shop Online Anytime: You can buy a vast majority of eBooks or print publications —with FREE Standard Shipping worldwide— from the U.S. Government Online Bookstore at https://bookstore.gpo.gov.

Click here to purchase First Flight: The Wright Brothers and the Invention of the Airplane

Order by Phone or Email: Call our Customer Contact Center Monday through Friday, 8 am to 4:30 pm Eastern (except US Federal holidays). From US and Canada, call toll-free 1.866.512.1800. DC or International customers call +1.202.512.1800.  Email orders to ContactCenter@gpo.gov

Visit a Federal depository library: Search for U.S. Government publications in a nearby Federal depository library. You can find the records for most titles in GPO’s Catalog of U.S. Government Publications.

Find more than a million official Federal Government publications from all three branches at www.govinfo.gov.

About the author: Trudy Hawkins is Government Book Talk Editor and Senior Marketing & Promotions Specialist in GPO’s Publication & Information Sales Office, supporting the U.S. Government Online Bookstore (https://bookstore.gpo.gov).


Honoring American Indian Heritage

November 13, 2024

November is American Indian and Alaska Native Heritage Month. The month celebrates the rich and diverse cultures and traditions of Native people and acknowledges their important contributions.

From their ancestral lands to their artistic expressions, American Indians and Alaska Natives have shaped the fabric of the United States. Their traditions and languages continue to inspire and enrich our society.

To learn all about the history of the American Indians, the GPO Bookstore offers the Smithsonian’s Handbook of North American Indians series. It is the ultimate resource for Native American history across various regions of North America. The multi-volume hardcover reference set is intended to summarize what is known about the prehistory, history, and cultures of the aboriginal peoples of North America north of the urban civilizations of central Mexico.

How to Celebrate:

  • Learn about history: Dive into the history and culture of different tribes.
  • Support Indigenous businesses: Purchase from Native-owned businesses and artisans.
  • Attend cultural events: Participate in powwows, cultural festivals, and art exhibits.
  • Educate yourself and others: Share knowledge and promote understanding.

Let’s come together to appreciate the resilience, creativity, and strength of American Indian and Alaska Native communities.

The GPO Online Bookstore – Easy Access to Federal Publications

HOW DO I OBTAIN THIS RESOURCE?

Sign up to receive promotional bulletin emails from the US Government Online Bookstore.

Shop Online Anytime: You can buy a vast majority of eBooks or print publications —with FREE Standard Shipping worldwide— from the U.S. Government Online Bookstore at https://bookstore.gpo.gov.

Click here to purchase Handbook of North American Indians

Order by Phone or Email: Call our Customer Contact Center Monday through Friday, 8 am to 4:30 pm Eastern (except US Federal holidays). From US and Canada, call toll-free 1.866.512.1800. DC or International customers call +1.202.512.1800.  Email orders to ContactCenter@gpo.gov

Visit a Federal depository library: Search for U.S. Government publications in a nearby Federal depository library. You can find the records for most titles in GPO’s Catalog of U.S. Government Publications.

Find more than a million official Federal Government publications from all three branches at www.govinfo.gov.

About the author: Trudy Hawkins is Government Book Talk Editor and Senior Marketing & Promotions Specialist in GPO’s Publication & Information Sales Office, supporting the U.S. Government Online Bookstore (https://bookstore.gpo.gov).


Celebrate the Marine Corps Birthday

November 8, 2024

The Marine Corps Birthday, celebrated annually on November 10th, commemorates the United States Marine Corps establishment in 1775. This significant day honors the Corps’ rich history and traditions and recognizes the sacrifices and valor of Marines throughout the centuries.

A compelling publication, The Legacy of American Naval Power: Reinvigorating Maritime Strategic Thought, An Anthology from the Department of the Navy, United States Marine Corps (USMC), sums up the Marine Corps Legacy in this collection of essays exploring the U.S. Navy’s historical development and strategic significance. It delves into the interplay of sea power, national security, and global influence, examining key figures, pivotal conflicts, and evolving doctrines. The book offers a comprehensive overview of naval strategy, highlighting its enduring relevance in the modern era.

Here are some ways to celebrate the Marine Corps Birthday:

  • Attend a Marine Corps Birthday Ball: These formal events feature dinner, speeches, music, and dancing, celebrating the Corps’ heritage.
  • Watch a Marine Corps Birthday Ceremony: Many bases and posts host ceremonies with cake-cutting, speeches, and musical performances.
  • Support Marine-related charities: Donate to organizations that support Marines and their families.
  • Wear Marine Corps gear: Show your support by wearing Marine Corps apparel or accessories.
  • Thank a Marine: Express gratitude to Marines for their service and sacrifice.

Happy Birthday to the U.S. Marine Corps!

The GPO Online Bookstore – Easy Access to Federal Publications

HOW DO I OBTAIN THIS RESOURCE?

Sign up to receive promotional bulletin emails from the US Government Online Bookstore.

Shop Online Anytime: You can buy a vast majority of eBooks or print publications —with FREE Standard Shipping worldwide— from the U.S. Government Online Bookstore at https://bookstore.gpo.gov.

Click here to purchase The Legacy of American Naval Power

Order by Phone or Email: Call our Customer Contact Center Monday through Friday, 8 am to 4:30 pm Eastern (except US Federal holidays). From US and Canada, call toll-free 1.866.512.1800. DC or International customers call +1.202.512.1800.  Email orders to ContactCenter@gpo.gov

Visit a Federal depository library: Search for U.S. Government publications in a nearby Federal depository library. You can find the records for most titles in GPO’s Catalog of U.S. Government Publications.

Find more than a million official Federal Government publications from all three branches at www.govinfo.gov.

About the author: Blogger contributor Ed Kessler is a Promotions Specialist in GPO’s Publications and Information Sales Office.

Images and additional content provided by Government Book Talk Editor Trudy Hawkins. Trudy is the Senior Marketing & Promotions Specialist in GPO’s Publication & Information Sales Office supporting the U.S. Government Online Bookstore (https://bookstore.gpo.gov).


GAO Releases New Government Auditing Standards for 2024

October 31, 2024

The U.S. Government Accountability Office (GAO) has recently released the 2024 revision of Government Auditing Standards, also known as the “Yellow Book.” This revision brings significant updates to the standards that govern financial audits, attestation engagements, reviews of financial statements, and performance audits conducted in the United States.

The GAO, as the governing body, sets the Government Auditing Standards. The Comptroller General of the United States appoints an esteemed Advisory Council on Government Auditing Standards, comprising financial and performance auditing experts from federal, state, and local government, private enterprise, public accounting, and academia. This Council plays a pivotal role in reviewing the standards periodically and recommending necessary changes.

The Government Auditing Standards 2024 Revision provides a framework for performing high-quality audit work with competence, integrity, objectivity, and independence. Such performance provides accountability and helps improve government operations and services. These standards are commonly referred to as generally accepted government auditing standards (GAGAS) and provide the foundation for government auditors to lead by example in the areas of independence, transparency, accountability, and quality through the audit process.

The 2024 revision introduces several key changes that are set to significantly impact the auditing process. These changes include:

  • Emphasis on quality management: The standards now place greater emphasis on audit organizations’ leadership proactively managing quality on their engagements.
  • Scalability: The approach promotes a scalable system of quality management that can be adapted to fit the size and complexity of different audit organizations.
  • Risk-based approach: A risk-based process is introduced to achieve the objectives of quality management.
  • Transition from quality control to quality management: The standards shift from a focus on quality control to a broader emphasis on quality management.

Overall, the 2024 revision aims to enhance the quality and consistency of government audits, improve public trust in financial reporting, and strengthen accountability.

The GPO Online Bookstore – Easy Access to Federal Publications

HOW DO I OBTAIN THIS RESOURCE?

Sign up to receive promotional bulletin emails from the US Government Online Bookstore.

Shop Online Anytime: You can buy a vast majority of eBooks or print publications —with FREE Standard Shipping worldwide— from the U.S. Government Online Bookstore at https://bookstore.gpo.gov.

Click here to purchase Government Auditing Standards 2024 Revision

Order by Phone or Email: Call our Customer Contact Center Monday through Friday, 8 am to 4:30 pm Eastern (except US Federal holidays). From US and Canada, call toll-free 1.866.512.1800. DC or International customers call +1.202.512.1800.  Email orders to ContactCenter@gpo.gov

Visit a Federal depository library: Search for U.S. Government publications in a nearby Federal depository library. You can find the records for most titles in GPO’s Catalog of U.S. Government Publications.

Find more than a million official Federal Government publications from all three branches at www.govinfo.gov.

About the author: Blogger contributor Ed Kessler is a Promotions Specialist in GPO’s Publications and Information Sales Office.

Images and additional content provided by Government Book Talk Editor Trudy Hawkins. Trudy is the Senior Marketing & Promotions Specialist in GPO’s Publication & Information Sales Office supporting the U.S. Government Online Bookstore (https://bookstore.gpo.gov).


Fair Credit Reporting Act Now Available

October 25, 2024

Consumer credit card debt in the U.S. is a growing concern. Despite recent efforts to curb rising interest rates, many Americans struggle to manage their credit card balances. The Federal Trade Commission’s (FTC) latest Fair Credit Reporting Act (FCRA), now available from the Government Publishing Office (GPO) Bookstore, gives consumers the right to access their credit reports, dispute inaccuracies, and know who has accessed their credit information.

Here’s a summary of what the FCRA does:

  • Protects the accuracy of your credit information: You have the right to dispute any errors on your credit report. The FCRA requires credit reporting agencies to investigate disputes and remove inaccurate information.
  • Gives you control of your credit report: You can get a free copy from the three major credit reporting agencies (Equifax, Experian, and TransUnion) once a year. You can also dispute errors online or by mail.
  • Limits who can see your credit report: Credit reporting agencies can only share your credit report with creditors and other businesses with a permissible purpose, such as landlords, insurers, and employers.

Now is a great time to familiarize yourself with the provisions of the FCRA to protect your rights as a consumer.

The GPO Online Bookstore – Easy Access to Federal Publications

HOW DO I OBTAIN THIS RESOURCE?

Sign up to receive promotional bulletin emails from the US Government Online Bookstore.

Shop Online Anytime: You can buy a vast majority of eBooks or print publications —with FREE Standard Shipping worldwide— from the U.S. Government Online Bookstore at https://bookstore.gpo.gov.

Click here to purchase Fair Credit Reporting Act

Order by Phone or Email: Call our Customer Contact Center Monday through Friday, 8 am to 4:30 pm Eastern (except US Federal holidays). From US and Canada, call toll-free 1.866.512.1800. DC or International customers call +1.202.512.1800.  Email orders to ContactCenter@gpo.gov

Visit a Federal depository library: Search for U.S. Government publications in a nearby Federal depository library. You can find the records for most titles in GPO’s Catalog of U.S. Government Publications.

Find more than a million official Federal Government publications from all three branches at www.govinfo.gov.

About the author: Blogger contributor Ed Kessler is a Promotions Specialist in GPO’s Publications and Information Sales Office.

Images and additional content provided by Government Book Talk Editor Trudy Hawkins. Trudy is the Senior Marketing & Promotions Specialist in GPO’s Publication & Information Sales Office supporting the U.S. Government Online Bookstore (https://bookstore.gpo.gov).