Which document would an employee alter to conceal inventory theft?

Altering a receiving report is a strategic method to conceal inventory theft because this document serves as a record of quantities and types of inventory that have been received by a company. If an employee is attempting to hide the theft of inventory, modifying the receiving report allows them to adjust the inventory figures to reflect a higher quantity than what was actually received or to eliminate records of items that were actually taken.

This manipulation creates a misrepresentation of the inventory on hand, making it easier to divert items without raising suspicion among management or auditors. In contrast, documents like the purchase order or shipping invoice typically relate to the ordering and shipment processes rather than the actual receipt and storage of goods, making them less effective for concealing theft after the fact. The accounts payable statement similarly revolves around financial records rather than inventory control, thus not serving the immediate need to disguise stolen goods effectively.

Overall, the focus on the receiving report highlights its pivotal role in tracking physical inventory in a business, and altering it directly impacts the apparent inventory levels, providing a cover for the theft.