ExecutiveOrdersEO
Memo 13520MemorandumObama · D

Presidential Memorandum 13520

Finding And Recapturing Improper Payments

Federal WorkforceFederal WorkforceEconomy & LaborEconomy & Labor

In simple terms

This memorandum directs federal agencies to expand use of "Payment Recapture Audits" to identify and recover improper payments to contractors and other entities. The OMB Director must issue implementation guidance within 90 days and coordinate with the Council for Inspectors General on Integrity and Efficiency to review agency effectiveness.

Federal Register Open PDF 75 FR 12119

Record & deadlines

  1. Signed

    Signed by the President

  2. FR published

    Published in the Federal Register · 75 FR 12119

    Federal Register PDF

  3. OMB Director develops guidance on actions agencies must take to carry out memorandum requirements

Key directives

  • Expand use of Payment Recapture Audits to extent permitted by law and where cost-effective
  • OMB Director to develop guidance within 90 days on actions agencies must take
  • OMB to coordinate with Council for Inspectors General on Integrity and Efficiency for IG review process
  • Guidance may include agency-specific targets for increasing recoveries

Who is ordered

Related orders

What to expect

Immediate

  • Memorandum directs expansion of Payment Recapture Audits

Near term (90d)

  • OMB Director must develop guidance on implementation actions

Long term

  • Potential agency-specific recovery targets
  • Ongoing IG review of agency effectiveness

Risks & tensions

  • Contingency-based auditor compensation could create perverse incentives or conflicts of interest
  • Cost-effectiveness qualifier may limit actual implementation scope
  • Agency discretion under 'extent permitted by law' creates uncertainty in enforcement
Presidential Memorandum 13520: Finding And Recapturing Improper Payments · Executive Orders