Program Overview
Since its founding in 1997 in partnership with the U.S. Office of Management and Budget (OMB) and the Chief Financial Officers Council (CFOC), the CEAR program has set the standard for excellence in federal financial and performance reporting.
The CEAR Program evaluates federal agency annual reports for clarity, completeness, and transparency. Through detailed peer reviews and expert feedback, the program helps agencies improve how they communicate performance results and financial accountability to the public.
Each participating agency receives:
- Thorough reviews by experienced federal financial management professionals
- Detailed recommendations for improvement
- Recognition for outstanding reporting during the annual CEAR Awards Ceremony
Why Participate?
Agencies gain:
- Recognition among peers and stakeholders
- Independent validation of reporting quality
- Insightful feedback for continuous improvement
Important Dates
July 15, 2025
- Preparer Training | 2–4 p.m. ET
- FY2024 Preparer Training Recording
- FY2024 Preparer Training Handouts
November 17, 2025
- Auditor’s report must be dated on or before this date
- Agency applications due
December 3, 2025
December 8, 2025
December 2025 (TBD)
- FY2025 CEAR Program agency packet and filing fees due
December 31, 2025
- SPFI (optional)
December 2025
- Digital reviews begin
- Agency packets mailed to reviewers
March/April 2026
- Reviewer Team Meetings
- Harold I. Steinberg Excellence in Accountability Report Award nominations due
May 2026 (TBD)
CEAR Awards Ceremony, Washington, D.C.
CEAR Guidelines
Download the current guidelines to learn how your agency can meet CEAR standards:
FY 2025 CEAR Guidelines
For Agencies & Preparers
Participating agencies receive expert feedback, leading to better reports and more transparent communication with stakeholders.
Resources
- Preparer Training Recording
- Training Handouts
- Contact: cear@agacgfm.org
Benefits
- Comprehensive feedback from seasoned reviewers
- Access to best practice summaries
- Recognition through CEAR and “Best-in-Class” awards
For Reviewers
CEAR reviewers are subject-matter experts in federal financial reporting. They play a critical role in helping agencies achieve excellence.
Resources
- Reviewer Training Recording
- Training Handouts
- Application Deadline: December 8, 2025
Benefits
- Network with fellow experts
- Contribute to federal accountability
- Gain insight into reporting trends and best practices
Related Trainings & Meetings
AGA provides ongoing training and events to support CEAR participants and reviewers:
Preparer & Reviewer Trainings
(Recordings & Handouts available)
Reviewer Team Meetings
(Spring 2026)
CEAR Awards Ceremony
(May 2026, Washington, D.C.)
Past Award Photos & Downloads
Harold I. Steinberg Excellence in Accountability Reporting Award
This prestigious award honors federal agencies that go above and beyond in their financial and performance reporting. Nominations open March/April 2026.
Questions?
Email cear@agacgfm.org or call 800.242.7211 ext: 322.