Question 1

Does my charity need an independent examination?

Accepted Answer

For financial years ending on or after 30 September 2026, charities in England and Wales with income over £40,000 need an independent examination unless an audit is required. An audit is required above £1.5 million income, or where gross assets exceed £5 million and income exceeds £500,000. Your governing document or funders may require scrutiny below these limits. Earlier year ends use the previous thresholds.

Question 2

Who can be an independent examiner?

Accepted Answer

The examiner must be independent and have the ability and practical experience to carry out the work. Above £500,000 income, they must be a member of a body listed in section 145(4) of the Charities Act 2011, including the Association of Accounting Technicians, or a Fellow of the Association of Charity Independent Examiners. Tom qualifies through full AAT membership (MAAT). Ordinary ACIE membership alone does not qualify.

Question 3

What is the difference between an independent examination and an audit?

Accepted Answer

An independent examination reviews the accounting records and accounts and reports whether anything has come to the examiner's attention suggesting that requirements have not been met. An audit involves more extensive testing and gives a positive opinion on whether the accounts show a true and fair view. We provide independent examinations, not statutory audits.

Question 4

Can you help with our accounts and trustee reporting?

Accepted Answer

Yes. We help with receipts and payments accounts for eligible smaller non company charities, accruals accounts, the Trustees' Annual Report and the Charity Commission annual return. Charitable companies must prepare accruals accounts. These services cover England and Wales; Scotland and Northern Ireland have separate rules.

Charity Independent Examiner and Accounts in Andover, Hampshire

How we help charities

Why work with Kingsley Accountancy

Does your charity need an examination?

Charity accounting questions