Request for Relief of Liability for a Shortage in an Imprest Fund

The General Services Administration (GSA) requested relief from liability of an employee for a $800 shortage in an imprest fund which occurred while she was principal cashier. GSA found that the shortage was not the result of the employee's fault or negligence. However, since it was clear that the employee failed to follow an agency order which requires that a cashier keep a lock box locked except when cash is being withdrawn or placed therein, GAO did not concur with the GSA determination that the loss occurred without fault or negligence on the part of the employee. Hence, relief from liability was not granted.