An audit is a detailed review of a charity’s financial statements and systems, while an independent examination is a lighter check to confirm the accounts are accurate and comply with charity law.

Audits provide a higher level of assurance and must be carried out by a registered auditor, often involving testing internal controls. Independent examinations are less intensive, usually quicker and more cost-effective, but still ensure the accounts are properly prepared and free from material errors.

 The examiner must be independent of the charity. For charities with income over £250,000, the examiner must be a member of a professional body such as ICAEW, ACCA or CIPFA. For smaller charities, an independent person with the right skills and experience may be acceptable.

 The examiner must be independent of the charity. For charities with income over £250,000, the examiner must be a member of a professional body such as ICAEW, ACCA or CIPFA. For smaller charities, an independent person with the right skills and experience may be acceptable.

You’ll need to provide your charity’s annual accounts, bank statements, financial records, and supporting documents for income and expenditure.

Typically, this includes receipts, invoices, grant award letters, payroll records (if applicable), and trustee reports. The examiner may request additional documents depending on your charity’s size and activities to ensure the accounts are accurate and compliant.

An independent examination usually takes 2–4 weeks, depending on the size and complexity of your charity’s accounts.

Smaller charities with straightforward records may complete the process within a couple of weeks, while larger or more complex organisations may need longer. Prompt submission of documents helps speed up the review.