What action should the Contracting Officer take in response to an unauthorized purchase made with a GPC card?

• A. Complete the purchase to satisfy needs
• B. Investigate for an Unauthorized Commitment
• C. Approve the expense as an emergency purchase
• D. Ignore the transaction as it is minor

Answer: (B)

In the context of government contracting and the use of Government Purchase Cards (GPC), when an unauthorized purchase occurs, it is essential for the Contracting Officer to address the situation through an investigation for an Unauthorized Commitment. This response is pivotal because an Unauthorized Commitment refers to an agreement that is not made in accordance with the applicable procurement regulations, essentially lacking the necessary formal approval for the transaction.

Investigating such a purchase allows the Contracting Officer to assess the implications of the unauthorized transaction, determine whether it meets the criteria for a valid obligation of the government, and take appropriate corrective action. It is critical to uphold the integrity of procurement practices and ensure compliance with federal regulations to prevent potential misuse of funds or accountability issues.

The investigation process may also reveal whether the purchase can be ratified under specific circumstances or needs to be addressed differently, ensuring that the agency adheres to proper financial management and legal standards. This approach emphasizes the importance of oversight in government contracting to maintain fiscal responsibility and accountability.