A special report is a type of financial statement that deviates from the standard format of Generally Accepted Accounting Principles (GAAP). These unique reports help address specific information needs while maintaining professional standards and clarity. Examples of this include a special report for a major donor that provides detailed cost allocations and outcome measurements that are not normally included in financial statements. Another common example of special reporting is a compliance report prepared to comply with contractual or regulatory requirements that differ from GAAP.
When preparing a special report, the authors are advised to provide extensive explanatory material on all aspects of the research, including a clear description of the background, aims, and actual results of the work performed. It should also include a literature review that analyses existing knowledge on the subject. It is important to note that a special report does not replace a peer-reviewed journal article and should only be published when the researchers are satisfied that the manuscript has been thoroughly edited. Special reports should contain the author’s name, academic qualifications and job title as well as a full address and telephone number for correspondence. The manuscript should not contain any proprietary or confidential information.
The Fox News Channel political talk show Special Report first premiered in 1996 and was anchored by Brit Hume until his retirement in 2008. Bret Baier has since replaced him as the show’s main anchor. The program has a strong focus on breaking political news from Washington and provides in-depth analysis of issues impacting the American people.