This policy is binding on everyone who writes or edits for USA Times. It is based on the established codes of the Society of Professional Journalists, the Associated Press, and the Online News Association. The full versions of related policies are linked at the bottom of this page.

Accuracy

We verify before we publish. If a claim cannot be verified, it does not run. Names, titles, addresses, dates, dollar amounts, statistics, and quotations are checked individually. When we are uncertain, we say so or we wait.

Independence

Reporters and editors do not accept gifts, paid travel, or other benefits from sources or subjects of coverage. Modest meals during interviews are acceptable; meals at a restaurant we are reviewing are not. Staff covering politics do not donate to or volunteer for campaigns they cover.

Sources

We strongly prefer named, on-the-record sources. Anonymity is granted only when a source faces credible harm from being named, the information is essential, and we have independent corroboration. The full procedure is in Sources & Anonymity.

Conflicts of interest

Writers disclose any financial, personal, or professional relationship with subjects of their reporting. Where the conflict cannot be eliminated, the story is reassigned or the conflict is disclosed in the published piece. When in doubt, disclose.

AI in the newsroom

We use AI to assist with transcription, copy editing, and research. AI does not write our stories under bylines, invent facts, or stand in for a reporter. The published version of every story is approved by a named human editor.

Corrections

When we get something wrong, we say what we got wrong, when, and how we fixed it. The note remains on the article permanently. See Corrections.

Reader feedback

If you believe USA Times has fallen short of these standards, write to achir@usatimes.com. We investigate every complaint and respond.