The largest statistical probability that, if an outcome is wrong, the RLA does not correct that outcome. For example, assume the reported outcome of an election contest is wrong, and the risk limit for the audit is 5%. In this instance, there is at most a 5% chance that the audit will not correct the wrong outcome, and at least a 95% chance that the audit will correct the wrong outcome. The risk limit is a number between 0 and 1 that limits the risk of certifying an incorrect outcome and is chosen by the RLA administrative authority before the audit is conducted.
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The largest statistical probability that, if an outcome is wrong, the RLA does not correct that outcome. For example, assume the reported outcome of an election contest is wrong, and the risk limit for the audit is 5%. In this instance, there is at most a 5% chance that the audit will not correct the wrong outcome, and at least a 95% chance that the audit will correct the wrong outcome. The risk limit is a number between 0 and 1 that limits the risk of certifying an incorrect outcome and is chosen by the RLA administrative authority before the audit is conducted.
Cite this term
Election Security Glossary. (2026). Risk Limit. In Election Security Glossary. Retrieved August 21, 2026, from https://electionsecurityglossary.com/glossary/risk-limit
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