What is the role of a hand receipt in accountability and control?

• A. It grants ownership to the hand receipt holder forever.
• B. It removes the need for any inventory record system.
• C. It formalizes accountability for a defined set of items and records who holds and uses them.
• D. It is only used for cash handling, not property.

Answer: (C)

A hand receipt is a formal assignment of responsibility for a defined set of items. It does not transfer ownership; instead, it designates who holds, uses, and is accountable for those assets. The document lists each item included, along with quantities, identifiers (like serial numbers), location, and current condition. By signing, the responsible person commits to safeguarding the items, using them properly, maintaining them, and reporting any discrepancies or losses, as well as returning them when required.

This creates a clear link between the property and the person or unit responsible for it, which is essential for accurate inventories, audits, and loss prevention. Because it specifies what is covered and who is responsible, it makes it easier to track assets as they move or are transferred and to hold the appropriate party accountable if issues arise. The hand receipt supports overall property control and does not imply ownership by the holder, does not replace the need for an inventory system, and applies to property—not cash.