When offered a gratuity, which approach aligns with policy?

• A. Accept immediately.
• B. Accept only if approved by a supervisor.
• C. Ask clarifying questions such as 'Does this person want something from me?'
• D. Disclose the offer to the media.

Answer: (C)

Handling gratuities is about guarding integrity and avoiding even the appearance of improper influence. The best first step is to pause and seek clarity on the giver’s intent. Asking a simple, direct question like “Does this person want something from me?” helps you determine whether there’s a quid pro quo, coercive pressure, or any expectation of favorable treatment. This shows you are actively enforcing boundaries, staying transparent, and following agency policy.

If the explanation reveals no strings attached and the policy allows it, you proceed in a manner consistent with those rules. If there are strings, or if policy prohibits accepting anything of value, you refuse and report as required.

Accepting immediately risks creating or appearing to create influence; requiring approval after the fact can still miss underlying intent; and involving the media is inappropriate and undermines trust.