Can GPC funds be used to acquire personal hardware or software for government employees?

The use of GPC funds to acquire personal hardware or software for government employees is fundamentally prohibited because it contravenes the intended purpose of the Governmentwide Commercial Purchase Card (GPC) program. The GPC is primarily established to facilitate the procurement of goods and services needed for official government functions and missions, ensuring that taxpayer dollars are responsibly managed and allocated to activities that serve the public and the government’s operational requirements.

Acquiring personal items using government funds raises serious ethical and legal concerns, as it could lead to misuse of government resources and a lack of accountability in procurement practices. Consequently, using GPC funds for personal hardware or software not only violates program guidelines but could also expose the cardholder and the agency to potential disciplinary actions or legal penalties. The GPC program is designed to uphold integrity and transparency, reinforcing that all purchases should align strictly with governmental needs and regulations.