Certified Government Auditing Professional (CGAP) Practice Exam 2026 – The All-in-One Guide to Exam Success

The correct answer emphasizes the importance of ethical standards that govern the conduct of government auditing professionals, specifically referencing The IIA's Code of Ethics. This code establishes guidelines that demand integrity, objectivity, and professionalism in all dealings. Accepting a gift after signing a contract raises serious ethical concerns, as it could create a perception of bias or influence where such a gift might compromise objectivity in future decisions or audits.

By stating that acceptance violates The IIA's Code of Ethics and is prohibited for a Certified Government Auditing Professional, this answer underscores the need for auditors to maintain the highest ethical standards, ensuring trust and transparency in their work. The Code of Ethics serves as a crucial framework that guides auditors in navigating potential conflicts of interest, reinforcing the principle that integrity in all professional interactions is paramount.

In contrast, the other options do not capture the full ethical implications of accepting a gift. Customary acceptance may lead to misunderstandings about what constitutes acceptable behavior. An organization's code of conduct may differ from broader professional ethics, and stating that the contract was signed before the gift was offered does not adequately address the underlying ethical considerations involved.