A financial audit or review can be used to appraise the overall strengths and weaknesses of local policies and procedures. It is a fundamental right that the membership can expect that the funds that are in the local’s treasury are being safeguarded in their behalf. The primary responsibility for safeguarding and use of these funds resides in the elected officers. This responsibility can not be delegated to anyone else. The membership has the means of ensuring that this trust is justified through its power to require the publishing of a financial report at every regularly scheduled meeting. A financial review committee of the local or an outside auditor can positively reinforce the local’s adherence to what are generally accepted accounting principles (GAAP) by conducting an annual review or audit. Remember that there are various levels of audits reflective of price.