HUD OIG has contracted with an Independent Public Accounting (IPA) firm to conduct the annual HUD financial statement audit. The IPA's audit objectives are to (1) express an opinion on whether HUD’s fiscal year 2026 financial statements are fairly presented and adequately disclosed, in all material respects, in accordance with U.S. generally accepted accounting principles; (2)report any significant deficiencies and material weaknesses in internal control over financial reporting that come to its attention during the audit; (3) report HUD's compliance with selected provisions of laws, regulations, and contracts; and (4) report if HUD’s financial management systems comply with FFMIA. Our IPA, Sikich, is required to conduct its audit in accordance with U.S. generally accepted government auditing standards. In connection with the audit, HUD OIG will review Sikich’s combined report and related documentation, monitor audit progress, and make inquiries of its representatives.