Our core specialism since 1996
Everything trustees and finance officers need to know about independent examination — who needs it, what's involved, and how IEL makes the process straightforward.
The fundamentals
An independent examination is a formal review of a charity's accounts carried out by an independent examiner — someone with no connection to the charity and the relevant financial knowledge to scrutinise the records properly.
It is a legal requirement under the Charities Act 2011 for most registered charities in England and Wales. Rather than a full statutory audit, an independent examination provides what is known as negative assurance — the examiner confirms that nothing in the accounts appears to be wrong, rather than providing the positive assurance of a full audit.
"The examiner's role is to provide an independent scrutiny of the accounts and, in this way, help maintain public trust and confidence in charities."
For charities with a gross income of up to £1 million, an independent examination is the appropriate — and considerably more cost-effective — alternative to a full statutory audit. Above £1 million, the Charity Commission requires an audit.
Independent Examiners Ltd has been carrying out independent examinations exclusively for charities since 1996. We understand the Charities SORP, the regulatory requirements for each income threshold, and the particular challenges that trustees and finance officers face at year end.
Does your charity qualify?
The type of scrutiny your charity's accounts require depends primarily on your gross annual income. Here's how the thresholds work.
Under £25,000
£25k
Charities below this threshold are no longer required to submit formal accounts to the Charity Commission, but many still prepare annual accounts — particularly when applying for grants or funding. We support charities at this level too.
The independent examination range
£25k – £1m
Registered charities with gross income between £25,000 and £1 million must have their accounts independently examined. This is IEL's core specialism and where the vast majority of our clients sit.
Over £1,000,000
£1m+
Above £1 million gross income, the Charity Commission requires a full statutory audit rather than an independent examination. If your charity is approaching this threshold, speak to us — we can help you understand the transition.
No surprises, no jargon
We've handled over 3,000 charity examinations. The process is straightforward, and we're with you at every step.
Get a quote
Contact us with your charity's income level and structure. We'll come back promptly with a clear, fixed fee — no surprises, no hourly billing.
Send your records
Upload your trial balance, bank statements and supporting records to your secure IEL client area. We'll let you know exactly what's needed.
We carry out the examination
Your dedicated examiner reviews your accounts against the Charities SORP and all regulatory requirements, coming back to you with any queries.
Signed off and filed
We return your completed, examined accounts ready for trustee approval and Charity Commission submission — everything in order, on time.
Understanding the difference
Most charities below £1 million income do not need a full audit. Here's how the two types of scrutiny compare.
| Feature | Independent Examination | Statutory Audit |
|---|---|---|
| Required income threshold | £25,000 – £1 million | Over £1 million |
| Type of assurance | Negative assurance — nothing found to be wrong | Positive assurance — accounts give a true and fair view |
| Examiner qualification | Relevant financial experience required (accountancy qualification for income over £250k) | Registered auditor (Registered Audit Firm) |
| Depth of testing | Review and enquiry-based | Detailed substantive and controls testing |
| Typical cost | Significantly lower | Considerably higher |
| Time required | Less intensive | More intensive |
| Suitable for most charities? | ✓ Yes — if income is below £1m | Only if income exceeds £1m |
Common questions
What charities say
I have used Independent Examiners since 2014 and have always found them to be professional, helpful, time sensitive when required. Over the years I have dealt with many different people and all are as lovely as one another. Thank you team, especially for your kindness and patience with me each year.
From enlisting their support, the process has been extremely smooth and very comprehensive, and always completed within the time frame agreed. Nothing is too much bother from any of the staff and will always assist if you have any queries. I have no hesitation in recommending their services.
I have found the whole experience of engaging with the IEL team a refreshingly straightforward process and have had no hesitation in recommending their appointment to be our Independent Examiners for our 2026 Report and Financial Statements.
Ready to simplify your year end?
We'll respond promptly with a clear, fixed fee tailored to your charity's size and circumstances. It really is that straightforward.
Or email us at info@iel.org.uk · We aim to respond within one working day
