The Government Accountability Office (GAO) is an independent agency of the United States Congress. It provides auditing, evaluation, and investigative services to ensure the government operates efficiently and effectively. The GAO helps Congress make informed decisions by assessing how taxpayer dollars are spent and identifying areas for improvement. Established in 1921, the GAO plays a crucial role in promoting transparency and accountability in the federal government. It conducts studies on various topics, including federal spending, program effectiveness, and government operations, and publishes reports that inform lawmakers and the public about the performance of government programs.