Primary definition
A statistical audit process that confirms whether an election outcome is correct by examining a random sample of ballots, requiring progressively larger samples if discrepancies are found until a predetermined confidence level is achieved.
Also known asRLA · risk-limiting audit · risk-limiting ballot audit · RLBA
— NIST Election GlossaryView source
Understand more election terms clearly
Get one important election term explained each week, with authoritative sources, practical context and related definitions.
Free. One useful email each week. Unsubscribe anytime.Learn more about the ESG newsletter →
NIST
A statistical audit process that confirms whether an election outcome is correct by examining a random sample of ballots, requiring progressively larger samples if discrepancies are found until a predetermined confidence level is achieved.
NIST Election Glossary · 2024
Cite this term
Permanent URL · stable across revisions
Election Security Glossary. (2026). Risk Limiting Audit. In Election Security Glossary. Retrieved September 1, 2026, from https://electionsecurityglossary.com/glossary/risk-limiting-audit
Sources
1 cited · last checked Aug 10, 2026
01
NIST Election Glossary
NIST Election Glossary
Single-source
Get the weekly election term
Receive one cited, source-backed election explanation in your inbox each week.
Get election terms explained weekly →
Free · Nonpartisan · Unsubscribe anytime.