How is an independent examination different from an audit?

An audit gives an opinion on whether the accounts are true and fair; an independent examination does not. The examiner checks for specific matters set out in the Commission’s directions, which makes it lighter, quicker and usually cheaper than an audit.

Can a trustee be a charity’s independent examiner?

No. The Charity Commission’s guidance for trustees says the examiner cannot be a trustee of the charity, and that being an employee or the book-keeper calls independence into question. The examiner can help prepare the accounts only if they are not involved in maintaining the records.

What does the examiner need from the treasurer?

Records of all money received and paid, the charity’s assets and liabilities at the year end, the governing document and the minutes of trustees’ meetings, according to the Commission’s guidance — and trustees available to answer questions about any of them.

Clubs & charities · UK

Independent examination

The lighter check of a smaller charity’s accounts, instead of an audit.

An independent examination is an outside check of a charity’s accounts that is lighter than an audit: the examiner looks for specific matters and does not give a “true and fair” opinion. In England and Wales it is required once gross income is over £40,000, for financial years ending on or after 30 September 2026 (over £25,000 before).

The examiner must be independent — not a trustee, and not the person keeping the records — and someone the trustees reasonably believe has the ability and practical experience to do it. Over £500,000 of income (£250,000 before 30 September 2026) the examiner must be a member of one of the bodies the Charities Act lists. An audit is required over £1.5 million, or over £500,000 with assets over £5 million (£1 million, or £250,000 with £3.26 million, before).

Worked example

A community charity with £62,000 of income in a year ending 31 March 2027 needs an independent examination, because £62,000 is over the £40,000 threshold. Its income is under £500,000, so a retired bank manager with relevant experience and no role at the charity could be its examiner.

Common mistake

Asking the treasurer’s friend who also helps keep the books. Independence is the point: someone who maintains the records cannot examine them, and a close personal relationship with a trustee calls independence into question.

See it in 2Fin: Funds — the year-end pack for the examiner →

Grounded in Charity Commission — Independent examination of charity accounts: guidance for trustees (CC31) guidance. Figures last checked 11 October 2026. General information, not tax advice.

Questions about this term