What method consolidates a component unit with the primary government?

The blended presentation method is used to consolidate a component unit with the primary government because it incorporates the financial data of the component unit directly into the primary government’s financial statements. This approach is employed when the component unit is so closely related to the primary government that the two entities function as a single entity.

Blended presentation involves combining the component unit's assets, liabilities, revenues, and expenses directly with those of the primary government, allowing for a more comprehensive view of the financial position and results of operations of the entire entity. This is particularly relevant when the component unit provides services solely to the primary government or when the governing body of the component unit is made up of the same individuals as those of the primary government.

In contrast, discrete presentation would report the component unit separately, without combining its financial data with that of the primary government, which would not provide the same level of integration. Combined reporting generally refers to the aggregation of data for multiple entities that may not be under the same government umbrella, while separate entity reporting treats each unit as entirely standalone, making it unsuitable for situations where a deeper financial interrelation exists.