​​​​​The Office of the MTA Inspector General (OIG) was created in 1983 to provide independent oversight of the MTA with broad authority over its activities, programs, employees, and contractors.

OIG aims to ensure a safe, reliable, accessible, clean, and affordable public transportation system in the New York metropolitan area. Primarily through investigations and audits, OIG helps the MTA improve its performance and enhance the quality, efficiency, effectiveness, and safety of its agencies' operations. OIG also investigates allegations of, fraud, abuse, and other corruption.

Audits

OIG auditors conduct in-depth reviews of a wide variety of policy initiatives, program operations, and service-related activities of the MTA and its agencies. OIG audits assess the performance of various MTA operations, including whether they are safe, accessible, and efficient, and make recommendations for improvement as appropriate. OIG regularly consults with the MTA Auditor General and other audit and investigative units throughout federal, state, and local New York government.

Legal & Investigations

OIG's Investigations unit vets complaints from within and outside the MTA concerning alleged fraud and other criminality, and abuse and determines the appropriate course of action. Working in tandem with the Legal team, the division's priorities are the detection and deterrence of fraud, the protection of MTA assets, and assuring the safety of MTA ridership. Where appropriate, matters are referred to relevant law enforcement and other federal, state, and local agencies for further investigation and/or for criminal or civil prosecution, in which OIG routinely participates.