Detecting Discrepancies in Cash Register Amounts | ACFE Exam Prep

Compare Cash on Hand and Register Tape for Accurate Records | ACFE Exam Prep

Question

The amount of cash on hand in a register may be compared to the amount showing in the register tape in order to detect _______.

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Explanations

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The comparison of the amount of cash on hand in a register to the amount showing in the register tape is a common method used to detect employee theft. This process is known as a cash count or cash reconciliation, and it involves physically counting the cash in a register and comparing it to the sales transactions recorded on the register tape.

Employee theft can occur when an employee steals cash from the register and then manipulates the register tape to conceal the theft. By comparing the amount of cash on hand to the recorded sales on the register tape, any discrepancies between the two can be identified and investigated.

It is important to note that while this method can be effective in detecting employee theft, it is not foolproof. An employee may still be able to manipulate the register tape to hide their theft, or they may steal non-cash items such as inventory or supplies.

Internal audits are another method that can be used to detect fraud and other forms of financial wrongdoing within an organization. These audits involve a comprehensive review of an organization's financial records and internal controls, and they are typically conducted by an independent auditor or internal audit team.

Occupational frauds, also known as employee frauds, are a type of fraud that is committed by employees against their employers. These frauds can take many forms, including theft of cash or other assets, fraudulent billing or expense reports, and embezzlement.

In summary, the comparison of the amount of cash on hand in a register to the amount showing in the register tape can be an effective method for detecting employee theft. However, it is important to recognize that this method is not foolproof, and other methods such as internal audits may also be necessary to detect fraud and other financial wrongdoing within an organization.