Where the threshold sits

For charities in England and Wales, a statutory audit is required once gross income exceeds £1 million, or where income is over £250,000 and gross assets exceed £3.26 million. Below those levels, an independent examination is normally all that's needed — a lighter-touch, lower-cost review. (Scotland and Northern Ireland set their own thresholds, which we'll confirm for your nation.)

What each actually is

An independent examination checks that your accounts are consistent with your records and meet the legal requirements — the examiner reports whether anything of concern came to light. An audit goes much further: testing, evidence and a formal opinion on whether the accounts give a true and fair view. More assurance, more work, more cost.

Check your own rules first Your governing document, or a major funder, can require a full audit even when your income doesn't. Always check before assuming an examination is enough — see our charity accounts & SORP guide.

Getting it right

We prepare your SORP-compliant accounts, scope the right level of scrutiny for your size and nation, and set you up to pass it cleanly. Where a full audit is needed, we work alongside a registered auditor.