From working-class roots to multi-award-winning founder: meet the accountant rewriting the rulebook Posted 03/19/2026 by Sophie Cross & filed under Skills. Nic Lonsdale, founder of Ginger Bucks, a West Midlands-based accounting practice that helps young founders get more profitable, talks us through why she wanted to do something different with her accounting qualification. Nic is multi-award-winning, scaling fast, and currently hiring her first full-time employee. She’s also 24 years old, proudly working class, and entirely self-made. Her story is the kind that AAT’s Filling the Gap research suggests the profession urgently needs more people to hear. New research commissioned by AAT reveals that 30% of people feel accounting lacks role models, 23% believe it’s a career for people from higher socio-economic backgrounds, and 33% think it’s only for the highly intelligent or numerate. Dropping the plan and finding a better one Growing up in a working-class household in Birmingham, with both her parents working in hospitality, Nic had decided she would be the one to do things differently. “I thought, I’m going to go to university. I’m going to be the one who breaks this chain,” she says. But about a year into her A-levels, with health problems and a part-time job, she started questioning whether the path she was on was really hers, or just the one she’d always assumed she had to take. She dropped out of sixth form and spent a month researching her options. Apprenticeships kept appearing, and within those, accounting kept popping up. “I absolutely loved maths at school. Numbers were my thing,” she says. “I wanted to go into forensic accounting. So, I thought, let’s learn about it, get on the job, and see what this can be.” She found an apprenticeship at a small business in South Birmingham and began studying AAT Level 2. It wasn’t easy, as being on an apprentice’s wage, Nic still worked a part-time restaurant shift after she finished her accounting job at 5pm and would study in whatever time was left. “I appreciate I didn’t have real big household bills,” she reflects. “But I was still running a car, putting petrol in it to get to work every day. It was really hard as a 17-year-old navigating that.” Filling the Gap report – chapter 2 This second chapter in AAT’s Filling the Gap report explores where accounting talent is going once students have finished their qualifications, and how we can close the gap. Read the report Nic pushed through and excelled, finishing with a Distinction in her Level 2. She then moved into roles across motor trade, construction and manufacturing, and climbed from accounts assistant to management accountant while completing Level 3 and Level 4 at night school. Her Level 3 was government-funded; her Level 4 she self-funded, paying for it out of her own salary. “I was getting paid between £20,000 and £28,000 from the age of 18 upwards,” she says. “But I made it work.” The breakdown that built something better By her early 20s, Nic was qualified and experienced, but had two mental health crises in the space of six months. “It came from really high pressure and unhappiness in a very toxic workplace,” she says. “After the second one, I realised there was obviously a trigger going on here. And I really looked inward and asked myself when was I last happy?” She realised she wanted autonomy and freedom, and the job she was in wasn’t going to give her either, so she made the brave move of stepping away, and spent two months exploring her options. “I realised I was 100% passionate about accounting. It wasn’t the work I hated; it was the environment. That reignited my passion.” Ginger Bucks launched from that realisation, and although the first year was extremely tough, by year two, the business had grown by 850% in revenue and 900% in profit, breaking into six figures. The practice has since won Best Newcomer Accountant, Best Accounting Services in the West Midlands, and “the one that meant the most”, AAT Practice of the Year. “I went to the AAT Impact Awards with three nominations and was just happy to be there,” she says. “Coming away with Practice of the Year was indescribable, especially with how hard year one was.” The role model she never had Nic is clear that when she was coming up through the profession, she didn’t have role models to look up to. “I’d been in accounting for eight years,” she says, “and it wasn’t until I set up the business that I actively went out and tried to find mentors. That’s when I realised there were role models, but they were in the broader community space, not the industry as I’d experienced it.” When speaking about AAT’s research around the perception that accounting is for people from higher socio-economic backgrounds, her reaction was visceral. “It genuinely gave me goosebumps,” she says. “It’s a mission I feel strongly aligned with.” Because where Nic started is not where she ended up, and it doesn’t have to be where anyone else ends up either. “Where you start in life, whether it’s from poverty, working class, or upper class, does not mean that’s where you’re going to end up. Accounting gives you the understanding of money that is crucial and that opens doors for everyone.” If someone told her that accounting wasn’t for them. Her answer would be, “Why not?” For more information about AAT’s Filling the Gap campaign, and to read the full report, click here.
Becoming a boss to manage the lifestyle you need Posted 03/19/2026 by Harry Rogers & filed under Skills. We speak to Jessica Morton FMAAT ACCA about her entrepreneurial journey and how becoming a mum has impacted her work life. You’ve completed your AAT qualifications and you’re ready to face the accounting industry head-on, but where do you begin your professional journey? With so many different sectors to choose from, it can feel overwhelming, and for Jessica Morton FMAAT ACCA, this pathway has been a whirlwind of twists and turns. From working with Dragon’s Den star Steven Bartlett, to setting up her own business and welcoming her first child into the world, Jessica has created quite the network in her professional life, but none of this came without hard work. Challenging the misconceptions of university The Filling the Gap campaign from AAT explores the growing skills shortages in the UK’s finance and accounting profession, highlighting where the gaps are, what’s causing them, and how we can work together – across government, business and education – to close them, while also shining a light on the people who are doing incredible things with their qualifications. Chapter 2 of the report suggests that 62% of young people think high grades are essential for accountancy and 57% believe a university degree is required to be successful. It simply isn’t. “I didn’t even go to college – I literally jumped straight in,” said Jessica, who now operates Jessica & Morton Consultancy in Lancashire, which specialises in helping businesses grow to their full potential. “There is that misconception that university means you will get a good job and I think it’s a shame. “I got really good GCSE results and assumed I would go to college and then on to university as that’s the traditional route, but a lot of young people don’t have a clue what they want to do for the rest of their lives. “That’s why I did an apprenticeship alongside my AAT qualifications. An apprenticeship means that you get actual experience on the job while you’re learning the theory.” Being motivated to make money AAT research shows that there is a perception that accounting is for people from higher socio-economic backgrounds (23%) and that it was a career for highly intelligent/numerate individuals (33%). While academically, Jessica was more than capable of going to university, she says that her motivation was always to start making her own money. She didn’t have a large financial backing from her parents and wanted to be independent. She said: “The most important thing for me at around 17-years-old, was moving out of my parents’ house and being independent, but I didn’t want to get into loads of debt. I saved up enough through my apprenticeship to move out a year later and I’ve lived independently ever since. “Success isn’t determined by whether you’ve got a degree or not. Success is how hard you’re working towards the thing that y you want to be successful in.” Taking a risk in a new role After a few years studying while working as an apprentice, Jessica was headhunted by a company to become their very first, in-house finance expert. What she didn’t know was that she would be working for Steven Bartlett, who at the time was a young, unknown entrepreneur who had created SocialChain with his business partner Dominic McGregor. Jessica was actively chosen because she was working in the industry as a young professional who hadn’t gone to university. She said: “They wanted someone that was a similar age to them, had work experience, and could understand the real-world implications of their decisions. “It was a big risk going from a well-respected company to a start-up business, but luckily it paid off.” It was here where Jessica discovered more confidence, and a belief that she had the skills to be her own boss. She said: “I was surrounded by so many young people at SocialChain who were eager to learn. We were all encouraged that we could be business owners. “I think Steve and Dom were very mindful that their employees weren’t going to work with them forever, and it was ok to help people look for their own opportunities.” A leap of faith to start a business AAT research suggests 24% of 25 – 44-year-olds say poor work–life balance is pushing them out of the industry, which was one of the many reasons why Jessica decided to branch out by herself. Flash forward to today, and she is now the proud owner of her own company. Having started trading in October 2024, her business is now a profitable one, but this didn’t happen overnight, and her journey started long before the business became official. She continued: “I don’t really do any new business outreach, which I know is very fortunate, as all my work comes off recommendations and people introducing me to other people. “Nearly all my customers come from the network I have built up over the years. I’m just fortunate enough that I’m doing a good enough job that people keep recommending me.” Juggling a family with work It isn’t just Jessica’s business that is a new success. She recently welcomed a baby boy into the world which has completely changed her working life forever. AAT’s research suggests that 22% of accountants with children specifically cite work–life balance issues in their decision to leave. Being your own boss can alleviate some of these issues, but it’s important to remember that adapting to your new role as a parent, while fulfilling your business duties, is a learning process that may feel like a struggle at first. “Becoming a mum is the hardest thing that I’ve ever done,” said Jessica. “Being a business owner is really exciting and gives you loads of flexibility. It means that you get to pick who you work with and choose when you want to work. “However, when you place a baby into the mix, if I don’t work, I don’t earn. If I had disappeared from my clients, they would have very quickly had to replace me. “I suppose some people assume when you have a baby, you become a mum and you walk away from your career, but I definitely didn’t want to do that. I wanted to carry on with the business I’d built. “It can be really hard juggling everything. It’s been a tough year at times and it’s been hard work, but I’ve managed to grow the business. I’ve managed to keep it profitable and I’ve managed to carry on. “I’m very lucky that my clients understand the position I’m in and they’ve been really flexible to help me to work, but also making sure that I’m still spending time with the baby as well. Being a business owner certainly does help with that.” Filling the Gap report – chapter 2 This second chapter in AAT’s Filling the Gap report explores where accounting talent is going once students have finished their qualifications, and how we can close the gap. Read the report So what keeps Jessica motivated when work becomes stressful? She said: “I want to set a good example to my son that if you work hard, you get to live whatever life you want to live. “We have a motor home, so we spend quite a bit of time on the road just travelling around. I can take my laptop and work from anywhere, which means owning my own business allows me to have a good work-life balance, even during those busy periods.” For more information about AAT’s Filling the Gap campaign, and to read the full report, click here.
Filling the Gap 2: where are finance professionals going after they qualify? Posted 03/19/2026 by Harry Rogers & filed under Skills. New AAT research shows that outdated perceptions and uneven access to opportunity are shrinking the talent pipeline for UK accounting and finance roles. Filling the Gap explores the growing skills shortages in the UK’s finance and accounting profession across three parts. Chapter 1 of the report highlighted that employers face critical skills shortages in accountancy and finance, impacting their talent pipeline and the growth of their business. The second chapter in this series explores the UK’s growing skills shortages in accounting and finance, and where talented individuals are going once they qualify. Chapter 2 of the report also suggests that 62% of young people think high grades are essential for accountancy and 57% believe a university degree is required to be successful. More key findings from chapter 2 Only 20% of those who hold an accountancy qualification currently work in an accounting-related role. Employees from lower socio-economic backgrounds take 25% longer to progress compared to those from higher groups. More than one in five AAT starters are later‑career entrants who chose accounting after time in another field. The findings show a profession with no shortage of qualified talent, but one held back by outdated perceptions. Understanding entry pathways AAT’s research shows that people enter accounting through a wide range of routes, including school leavers, university graduates and career changers. More than one in five AAT starters join the profession after time in another field, demonstrating the breadth of opportunity accounting qualifications can unlock. However, despite this diversity of entry routes, only 20% of those who hold an accountancy qualification currently work in an accounting related role. Many qualified professionals are being drawn to other sectors thanks to the versatility of accounting qualifications, which enable people to become entrepreneurs, lead teams and reshape organisations. Sarah Beale, AAT CEO, said, “This research makes it clear that accounting isn’t struggling because of a lack of talent; it’s struggling because too many people still don’t see a place for them. “Outdated perceptions and uneven access to opportunities are holding the profession back at a time when it needs to open its doors wider than ever. “By challenging old myths, embracing technology confidently, and ensuring people from every background can see a path into and through the profession, we can rebuild the talent pipeline.” Chapter three of Filling the Gap will be coming later in 2026, exploring the social and economic impact of finance professionals working in different industries. Filling the Gap report – chapter 2 This second chapter in AAT’s Filling the Gap report explores where accounting talent is going once students have finished their qualifications, and how we can close the gap. Read the report
Meet the AAT team at Accountex London and the FD Show Posted 03/16/2026 by Accountex & filed under Members. Free registration is now open for the fifteenth year of Accountex London, and the first-ever co-located FD Show. The exhibitions bring together a wide range of software and service suppliers, a packed CPD-accredited education programme as well as exciting features and networking opportunities. The 2025 edition was hailed a huge success as it welcomed 16,000+ accounting and finance professionals over 2 days. “The accounting and finance profession is navigating one of the most transformative periods in history. From AI integration to evolving client expectations, professionals need a space to learn and connect. We’re doubling down on what matters most – practical insights, genuine connections, and solutions that make a real difference to your practice or business. The launch of the FD Show alongside Accountex London means we’re now serving the entire finance profession” Said Accountex Portfolio Director, Caroline Hobden. ‘I connected with existing suppliers, evaluated new ones and discovered products I didn’t know existed’ Visitors will get the opportunity to catch up with existing suppliers and compare new services, all under one roof. Exhibitors will be giving live, personalised demos and answering questions face-to-face on how their solutions can benefit attendees’ businesses. The exhibitor list boasts 300+ fintech companies including leaders like FreeAgent, Intuit QuickBooks, IRIS, Sage, TaxCalc, Wolters Kluwer, and Xero. As well as first-time exhibitors like Visa and Barclays. Visitors will also be able to meet the AAT team at stand 995 at Accountex, and stand 224 at the FD Show to have their questions answered in person and explore the opportunities they have on offer. “Accountex London never disappoints – and 2025 was easily the best one yet. I attend every year to stay ahead of the curve and discover new tools that can help both my business and my clients thrive. The atmosphere was absolutely buzzing, and the sheer variety of vendors meant I left with fresh ideas (and software!) I didn’t even know I needed. If you’re in the accounting world and haven’t been yet, make 2026 your year. I’ll be there, soaking up inspiration and motivation all over again.” Exclaimed visitor Kristy Glenister, 4cast Bookkeeping Limited. ‘The programme is packed with useful and knowledgeable speakers that made for a great day of learning’ The CPD-accredited seminar programme boasts 250+ seminars across 13 theatres. Designed to address the real challenges professionals face daily, the programme spans critical topics including practice growth strategies, AI innovation and AML regulations – ensuring attendees leave equipped with actionable insights to take back to the office. For the third year running AAT are sponsoring the Leadership Theatre. Over the 2 days it will have a packed line-up of seminars aimed to equip visitors with the right tools to lead their existing teams and inspire the next generation of successful leaders. “I debated whether to take a full day out of the office to attend Accountex London, but I’m so glad I did. I came away feeling energised and inspired after soaking up so much knowledge. With a packed agenda of expert-led, relevant and future-focused seminars, I was truly spoilt for choice! There were also plenty of other learning experiences like the Masterclasses and Showcase Stage programme to choose from.” Commented visitor Leila Singh, Success Redefined Limited. ‘Accountex is Disneyland for Accountants!’ As thousands of the accounting, bookkeeping, and finance community reunite, there will be countless networking opportunities to make new connections and catch up with old colleagues. Classic features will be returning, including the Bookkeepers Basecamp, MTD Hub with HMRC, Cyber Resilience Hub, Solo Traveler Lounge, Social Network Hub, Sustainability Zone, Podcast Pitstop, Quiet Room and Content Creation Clinic, as well as numerous after-show parties. Since 2023, Accountex has proudly collaborated with Carma for their ‘Trees for Attendees’ initiative, where Carma have planted a tree for every attendee. As a result, over 30,000 trees have been planted, with the aim of mitigating the event’s carbon footprint whilst supporting international communities. Introducing the FD Show Co-located with Accountex London, the FD Show is a new trade show dedicated to accountants in industry. Built for finance leaders, including Finance Directors and CFOs, it will feature expert insights, practical solutions, and live sessions to help professionals stay ahead, connect with peers, and drive strategic impact. The exhibition will feature 40+ key suppliers offering enterprise solutions, alongside a range software and services catered to finance professionals. Exhibitors include Wolters Kluwer, Workday, Scale XP, Crowe UK LLP, Octopus, Docuware and Corepay. The free seminar programme will be held across several theatres, and offers invaluable training opportunities and insight into industry developments. It will feature case studies from big brands and provide practical solutions to the challenges that c-suite finance professionals face daily. Accountex London and the FD Show are taking place at Excel on the 13-14 May 2026. You can register for your free ticket here.
How to use social media to win clients Posted 03/12/2026 by Christian Koch & filed under Digital skills, Members, Run your business. You don’t have to be an influencer to help your accounting practice take off, but you can learn from them. Two years ago, accountant Emily Vass was about to go solo with her Nourished Accounting firm. She didn’t have a single client. Even though marketing her new new business felt daunting, she spotted an opportunity. “Social media wasn’t something accountants and bookkeepers were using well, especially when building trust with potential clients,” she remembers. Starting her TikTok account from scratch, she posted one video (“Want to earn money tax-free?”), followed by another (“You need an emergency fund!”) the following day. Within a year, this technique secured her 100 clients. Vass (15,200 Instagram followers; 3,859 TikTok), StriveX founder Rachel Harris (239,000 Instagram) and Josh Thomas (123,000 Instagram) are among a growing breed of accountants using social media like influencers do. Harris has even described herself as a “content creator first and accountant second”. All have seen their businesses soar as a result. But you don’t need hundreds-of-thousands of followers to follow in their footsteps, as we show here by addressing some common fears accountants have about social media. I don’t know which platform to post on Vass produces her content with a “TikTok-first” approach, because that’s the favourite platform of her millennial/Gen Z clients. “It’s all about understanding who your target customer is and where they spend time,” says Vass. “If your average client is a man in his 50s, then posting on TikTok won’t generate many leads; similarly, if you’re targeting builders, they won’t be spending much time on LinkedIn,” she adds. “There’s no point shoving loads of stuff on social if you’re not clear on who you’re talking to.” Why LinkedIn? “For most accountants, LinkedIn should be your priority,” says Rumana Jeffreys, founder of accounting consultancy Fast Track Clients. Research shows the platform can generate three times as many leads (277%) as both Twitter/X and Facebook. It’s also where professionals are increasingly active: the site has become a “daily habit” according to LinkedIn vice-president Daniel Roth, while 85% of FTSE100 chief execs have a presence on the site, up from just 12% in 2023. Why Instagram? “Instagram works well for niche specialists and building brand personality,” says Jeffreys. “For example, property investors are on Insta because renovation content is visual. If you target craftspeople or landscapers, that’s where they’ll be.” “People don’t visit Instagram for business; they’re scrolling for pretty pictures and seeing what friends are doing,” adds Vass. “But it’s great for nurturing audience”. Why TikTok? Vass has nearly four times as many followers on Instagram as on TikTok, yet TikTok wins her more clients. That’s because younger generations are increasingly using the video app as a search engine, bypassing Google entirely. It’ll take me forever to build a following Growing followers can be frustrating. But consistency can pay off. “For my first 90 days on TikTok, I posted a video every day,” says Vass. “I viewed it as a non-negotiable KPI for my business because winning work was the most important thing.” For LinkedIn, Jeffreys suggests being the first person to comment underneath posts from high-profile influencers. “Set up notifications so you’re the first to comment,” she says. “You’ll get many more impressions and followers thanks to their reach.” However, huge followings count for nothing if they’re not bringing in business. “I’d rather have 100 clients than 100,000 followers, because that’s what pays my mortgage,” says Vass. I’m not sure what content to create Jeffreys suggests starting with three posts a week: An educational post eg ‘7 Quick Tax Tips’, myth-busting or explainers such as ‘What is MTD?’ Thought leadership/insights commenting on industry trends such as AI, or on regulatory/tax changes – or a client case study. A human or story-led post to build trust. Getting educational posts right Most of Vass’s videos are educational content. When stuck for ideas, she thinks of “the silly questions people are afraid to ask their accountant or the type of thing clients might type into Google.” Some of Vass’s previous examples include: What is a payment on account? How to set up a limited company (Vass says this post has given her more clients than any other). How to earn £50k but pay just £3k in tax. Putting your car through your Ltd company. Remember your audience too. “If you’re targeting businesses with £500,000 turnovers, there’s no point writing about VAT thresholds because these businesses would have been there, done that,” says Jeffreys. Nailing thought leadership This is where you can showcase industry knowledge, comment on industry trends and provide insights. For LinkedIn, focus on topics trending on LinkedIn News, as the platform’s algorithms will prioritise these subjects. Case studies could feature testimonials from your clients (get their consent first!) or stories about how you’ve helped businesses or individuals. Landing human and story-led posts These are the softer, more personal posts and videos which build trust with clients. “When it comes to finding an accountant, most business owners will look on social media to get a feel of what this person is like,” says Jeffreys. “Showing your human side with story-led posts helps reassure people.” If you’re stuck for ideas, share your hobbies or passions. Jeffreys knows one accountant who penned a LinkedIn post to coincide with the British Grand Prix. It caught the eye of one F1-loving business-leader, landing the accountant a £60,000-a-year contract. Speaking on video makes me anxious Video viewership on LinkedIn is becoming more popular (increasing 36% year-on-year). Yet, as Jeffreys says, many accountants still “worry they’ll need to do TikTok dancing videos.” Fortunately, posting videos is nowhere near as cringeworthy. If you’re camera-shy, Vass recommends “imagining you’re on a FaceTime call with a friend who’s asked you a question, and then start from there.” Lack of tech shouldn’t be a worry, either. There are plenty of free AI video editors (Canva, CapCut etc) to tidy up ‘ums-and-ahs’, while you don’t need a sophisticated camera or tripod. “I’ve shot videos with my phone propped up on a tissue box before,” says Vass. I’m an accountant: I crunch numbers, not sentences! Not a fan of writing? “Record a voicenote, get it transcribed, tidy up grammar using ChatGPT/Claude [but never get these tools to write for you], then post!” says Jeffreys. Simple. Selling my business online makes me cringe Social posts which zero in on the hard sell usually misfire. Instead, adopt a subtle, conversational approach. “Think of [posting] as like attending networking events in real life,” says Jeffreys. “You wouldn’t go to an event and immediately start selling your accountancy services.” Make sure to include a call-to-action (CTA) such as ‘If you want to learn more, click the link in the bio’ somewhere in the post or video. It’s hard to show visuals for accountancy Pics of Excel spreadsheets or generic photos of calculators are unlikely to catch anyone’s eye as they scroll. Instead, grab their attention with infographics such as graphs, charts and statistics in colourful fonts. For videos, Vass suggests including behind-the-scenes footage shot at events/conferences, or the following visual hooks: Swivelling around in a wheelie-chair at work. Sipping a cup of tea. Props such as vouchers when discussing trivial benefits. I can’t find time to post in busy periods Even though social media may be the last thing on your mind when swamped with year-end accounts, Jeffreys argues this is exactly when you should be posting. “Clients make decisions during busy periods such as tax season,” she says. “If they receive unexpected tax bills because their accountant’s gone quiet, this is when they’ll be looking for a new one.” Scheduling or batching posts via tools such as Hootsuite is an easy work-around. I wouldn’t know how to convert followers into clients Jeffreys suggests offering LinkedIn/Instagram ‘lead magnets’ [free incentives in exchange for contact details] such as a 15-minute one-to-one discovery call, or a free tax guide/book for 2026/27. Let your content do the work for you – include a CTA in your posts linking to your contact page. Some final tips Caption your videos Vass: “Most people watch videos with the sound turned off because they’re busy or working. Include captions otherwise they won’t watch!” Have an SEO-enabled name Make sure the word ‘accountant’ or ‘accountancy’ is included in your profile name, because that’s what potential clients will be typing into their search bars, says Vassa. For example, her TikTok username is Emily Feel Good Accountancy. Hashtags Jeffreys: “Don’t have too many hashtags on LinkedIn: around three-five works best. However, on Instagram feel free to use more.” Time posts wisely “Don’t post in the middle of night when everybody’s asleep!” says Jeffrey. “Think about where your clients are: if they’re in the US, post in the afternoon. Or if they’re working in hospitality, post around 1-2pm when they’re going to work.” Scheduling posts for mornings when people are commuting or eating breakfast also works well. Don’t just network with other accountants on social media Vass: “One problem many accountants have on LinkedIn is that all their connections are others working in the same industry. Instead, fill your feed with your target clients – these are the people you need to be talking to!” Don’t give up! “When I first started, it felt like shouting into a void: I remember asking my husband to leave comments to make me feel less lame!” remembers Vass. “However, it’s worth remembering all creators start with zero followers. For some people, it’s video two that blows up. For most, it’ll be their 20th or even 100th video. Just keep going and don’t be afraid to repeat ideas.”
Is it worth becoming an ACSP authorised agent? Posted 03/10/2026 by Georgia Lewis & filed under Anti-money laundering, Anti-money laundering, Members. Accountants discuss the pros and cons of registering as an Authorised Corporate Services Provider. The Economic Crime and Transparency Act (ECCTA) came into effect at the end of 2023 – and with that came a new verification process for businesses registered on Companies House. This means that people who are company directors or have significant control of a limited company need to have their identities verified, as well as complying with additional document scrutiny and transparency requirements. While ECCTA has its benefits, the process of obtaining ACSP authorisation and the added workload have added a few bumps in the road for many accountants and agents. We asked some about their experiences with the process. What Companies House reforms mean for you in practice Attend our webinar to understand your responsibilities as an Authorised Corporate Service Provider (ACSP). Find out more ACSP ID verification services are different from AML checks and have different penalties AAT Identity verification became a legal requirement on 18 November 2025. This marked the start of a 12-month transition period for existing directors and people with significant control (PSCs) to verify their identify and provide their personal code as part of their company’s next confirmation statement. Those who became a director or PSC after 18 November 2025 are now required to provide their personal code when they’re first added to the Companies House register or within 14 days of being added. More information is available on GOV UK. Registering as an Authorised Corporate Services Provider (ACSP) gives agents the ability to provide identification verification services for their clients for the purposes of registering with Companies House only. It will become mandatory for agents to register as an ACSP by November if they are filing statutory documents to Companies House. We urge our members to make a well-informed decision about whether becoming an ACSP is the right fit for their firm, particularly in light of compliance risks. This is a separate identity verification standard set by Companies House which is different from the risk-based approach taken in AML compliance. If the evidence is being checked by a person, they must be trained in detecting false documents and be familiar with the guidance on examining identity documents to detect basic forgeries. Companies House cannot recommend any specific training providers but they must follow the Home Office best practice guide. There are also different record-keeping requirements according to which identity verification documentation for ACSP purposes must be kept for seven years. There will be offenses in relation to breach of record keeping or late submission of information requested by the registrar. We know there are unregulated firms out there that are not complying with their AML obligations, and so introducing this stricter requirement for Companies House helps enhance corporate transparency and combats economic crime. Here’s some of our recent guidance on ACSPs: ACSPs, are you meeting the Companies House ID verification standard? What can you do to be accepted as an ACSP by Companies House? Role of ACSPs: Mandatory identity verification for all company directors and people with significant control Due diligence is vital, especially in this era of remote communications Rowan Morrow-McDade, Tax Director, Alexander & Co ACSP authorisation is not just a straightforward commercial opportunity – doing this work comes with additional regulatory obligations separate to AML checks. It places particular emphasis on knowing clients, maintaining robust due diligence processes and exercising sound professional judgement. Accountancy firms must have strong measures in place to ensure thorough due diligence, with knowing the client remaining central to every engagement. As remote communications become more prevalent, extra care is required to maintain the same level of oversight and understanding. Firms should approach the new regime cautiously, with a clear understanding of the compliance burden and the risks associated with assuming these responsibilities. Becoming an ACSP shows clients that you keep on top of legal changes Martin Hobson, Partner, Audit & Accounts, Clive Owen The process was fairly straightforward, although not without challenges. There is still debate about the benefits of the changes, but I think the requirement to verify identity is definitely a positive. There are some well-known examples of companies that have been set up on the public register with fake names, including one in the name of a science fiction film character. We were one of the early adopters – I registered our firm as an ACSP at the end of March 2025. I was keen to see how the process worked. One stage involves applying to register your firm as an ACSP, verifying your own identity with Companies House. There were a few glitches with the software system, but it didn’t take me too long to complete the process – although it involved a wait of several days to check it had all gone through. There should have been more rigorous testing of the software before it was launched, with clearer guidance on the process, as it caused a great deal of confusion. But I don’t think it came as a surprise to agents, as we have seen the issues that can come with such large scale changes many times before. Since those early days, Companies House updated the ACSP registration guidance, which does make it clearer. I still think the easiest route for individuals to verify their identity is to use the free Companies House system, but some people are still experiencing technical problems. In that case, an ACSP can help by discussing the available options with their client to verify identity in another way. Registering as an ACSP shows that a firm is keeping on top of the changes in this area. One of the main risks is if the ACSP manually verifies an individual’s identity themselves. That involves, for example, checking a passport, driving licence, birth certificate or other documents, but the person carrying out that check must be trained to detect when a document is false. Once an ACSP is registered, it has the option of whether it is added to the publicly available list of ACSPs. There is still much debate in the industry as to the benefits of that. Many are now on the list, which certainly increases the likelihood of being contacted by companies or individuals looking to verify their identity. Whether that is something they want – the fear of being inundated with enquiries may not necessarily lead to significant fee opportunities – is up to them. What we can say for certain is that the ACSP system is here to stay. We like to be on the front foot, keeping our clients informed of incoming changes. As agents, we should be aware of the changes that resulted from ECCTA, as there are many more changes still to come. Clients expect accountants to be ACSP authorised, but it’s an admin-heavy service Kieran Burge, Director, DS Burge & Co Overall, the process is logical in principle, but administratively heavier than we had expected. The intent is clear and probably overdue. It was easier to open a company in the UK than broadly anywhere else in the world before this. The alignment with existing anti-money laundering (AML) supervision makes conceptual sense. The framework reinforces professional standards that most regulated firms already follow. Clients expect us to be ACSP authorised. Without ACSP status, clients may go directly to Companies House or alternative providers. Certification keeps agents central to governance and filing processes. On the negative side, there is a time burden for smaller practices that is challenging to bill to our clients. There is also a lack of clarity around liability exposure and operational implications. For firms already well-structured around AML compliance, the process is manageable. Many firms are already supervised by a recognised professional body, so in my opinion, a more streamlined passporting process using existing AML supervision data would reduce duplication. Proportionate regulation would reduce unnecessary burden on smaller firms. A sole practitioner filing confirmation statements occasionally does not pose the same risk profile as a large formation agent.Regulation is clearly moving toward tighter identity verification and corporate governance oversight. Becoming authorised early reduces disruption later. What Companies House reforms mean for you in practice Attend our webinar to understand your responsibilities as an Authorised Corporate Service Provider (ACSP). Find out more
Licence renewal: Help us avoid unnecessary referrals Posted 03/06/2026 by AAT Comment & filed under Anti-money laundering, Anti-money laundering, Members. Your accuracy matters when completing compliance questions at renewal. Each year, thousands of AAT members complete either their membership or licence renewal. Alongside updating personal details and paying subscription fees, members are also required to answer a set of regulatory questions. While these may seem routine, they play a vital role in upholding the integrity, professionalism and public trust that underpin AAT membership. This article explains why it’s essential to read and answer these questions carefully, what is at stake if information is incomplete or inaccurate, and how members can stay compliant throughout the year, not just at renewal time. What’s in our annual compliance questions? Our annual compliance questions allow AAT to confirm that members: are adhering to the AAT Code of Professional Ethics; are correctly licensed and registered for Anti‑Money Laundering (AML) supervision if they provide services to the public; have appropriate AML procedures, professional indemnity insurance and clients’ money controls in place (where relevant); have notified AAT of any changes to their suitability to hold membership, such as insolvency matters, convictions or disciplinary findings from other bodies. Each question supports AAT’s role as a professional body and ensures that our register remains accurate, credible, and trustworthy. Why does it matter if you answer questions incorrectly? Providing accurate information on your renewal documentation is not simply an administrative task, it is a professional responsibility. Members should be aware that: Incorrect answers can breach the Code of Professional Ethics. The Code requires members to be honest, transparent, and forthcoming in all professional dealings. Incorrect declarations, even if accidental, undermine these principles. Correct answers protect members from accidental non‑compliance. Inaccurate declarations can expose members to risks from practising without sufficient PII, to failing to meet AML supervision requirements, to overlooking suitability issues that must be disclosed. If a member indicates, intentionally or not, that they are practising without a licence or experiencing a suitability issue, AAT is required to review the declaration. Even if the member later explains the response was a mistake, the case will already exist, and initial processes will have begun. Taking time to read questions carefully helps avoid unnecessary referrals and ensures resources are focused on genuine concerns. How to ensure you answer accurately To support members, AAT recommends the following before completing your renewal: ✔ Set aside dedicated time, avoid completing your renewal in a rush. ✔ Read each question in full. ✔ Pay attention to phrases such as “in the past 12 months” or “Are you currently”, “Have you ever”. ✔ Check supporting documents. ✔ Seek clarification if unsure. If you are uncertain how to answer a question, contact AAT before submitting your renewal. It is always better to ask than to risk an incorrect declaration. If you have any questions about compliance requirements or need support with your renewal, please get in touch with AAT, we are here to help.
“I’ve been the only female accountant in too many rooms, too many times” Posted 03/05/2026 by Christian Koch & filed under Members, Women in finance. As International Women’s Day approaches, we take stock of the current issues impacting gender equality in accounting. When AAT President Lucy Cohen founded Mazuma in 2006, she was justifiably proud: at the time few women had started accountancy firms, let alone at the age of 23. At her first networking event, she expected a level playing-field. What she found was very different. “One of the first people I spoke to asked me, ‘Is this your dad’s company?’” she recalls. “I’d previously worked for an all-female accounts team with really strong women: nothing there ever suggested I shouldn’t be as good as men. But when I started going out into the wider world, I noticed firm owners tended to be male. Since then, I’ve often been the only woman in too many rooms, too many times.” Of her early encounters with bias, she says, “I think it taught me some lessons – I need to work harder than my male counterparts. I’ve had to go into rooms and be absolutely undeniable.“ International Women’s Day (IWD) on 8 March offers a moment for the industry to take stock of gender equality in accounting. Industry overview At first glance, it could appear the UK accounting industry has stamped out gender inequality over the last 20 years. After all, nearly half (45.5%) of all accountancy jobs in the UK are now held by women, according to the Office of National Statistics’ (ONS). But at the top, it’s a different story. Just 12% of the UK’s top 100 accounting firms have female leaders – a drop of 20% in one year, according to Accountancy Age’s 2024 rankings. “There’s still a huge gender gap in accountancy. Less than 2% of venture capital funding goes to female-founded companies in the UK. My company is one of them. That’s not representative of the talent pool at all,” says Cohen. From the pipeline problem to the salary divide, here’s some of the main issues impacting gender equality in accounting right now. Few women at the top, but there’s been some progress The Accountancy Age data on female leadership mirrors other sectors too: there are only nine female bosses at FTSE 100 companies, according to the recent FTSE Women Leaders Review. Female partnership also has room to grow. The average percentage of female partners at the top 100 firms is just 24%, according to Accountancy Age. Still, there are increases: Forvis Mazars and KPMG have the highest proportion at 29% (compared to just 15% at KPMG in 2015) PwC has 28%, up from 22% in 2020. There have also been several high-profile female appointees in the last 18 months, including EY’s Anna Anthony, the first permanent female big four CEO and Alison Duncan, the firm’s first-ever female chair. Careers curtailed by caring Why aren’t women getting the top jobs? One theory is many women are leaving the partnership track in their 30s and early-40s: the age people typically step into more senior executive positions. Some are taking time out to have children. Some leave because they end up shouldering more housework and childcare responsibilities than their male peers. ONS stats show women in the UK do almost 50% more unpaid domestic and care work than men. In a 2025 Chartered Accountants Worldwide report, 42% of female chartered accountants with children aged five-to-nine said being a parent was the biggest hurdle to career progression. Accounting’s cyclical calendar makes it hard for parents to balance work and family commitments during year-ends and self-assessments. Many woman accountants avoid taking annual leave due to concerns over handovers (41%) or frequently sacrifice work-life balance to accommodate others (88%), according to accountancy charity Caba. With mothers losing an average of £65,618 in pay by the time their first child turns five, the ‘motherhood penalty’ in the UK is huge. Parental leave is another problem: only a small number of employed fathers take their entitlement to share up to 50 weeks with their partner. Gender pay gap The salary divide in accountancy remains stark. Last year, Bloomberg analysis of government data found that women working in financial services earned just 78p for every £1 made by men. This 22p difference is twice the UK-wide pay gap. Soon-to-be-released data from AAT’s own salary survey also shows a persistent gender pay gap across its members and students. However, AAT members have a far more level playing field than the wider sector, a result of our focus on opening up access and the diversity of our membership and student base. Across all industries, full-time female employees are paid 6.9% less than male ones. At big four firms, this gap is wider: KPMG has a 14.7% gender pay gap; at Deloitte it’s 11.9% (it also reports a 41.7% bonus gap). Rollbacks on diversity, equity and inclusion (DEI) policies Corporate inclusion initiatives surged in the early-2020s. However, following President Trump’s anti-DEI orders in the US, corporations including Amazon, Disney and Google scaled back their diversity policies. Here in the UK, 54% of businesses adjusted their approach to ethical policies and practices last year, according to research by law firm Freeths. Cohen has expressed concern, telling the Business in Wales podcast that “Any change in any industry tends to be underpinned by a change in legislation, which is why it’s so terrifying to see DEI rolled back from some of the largest accounting firms on the globe. “When we look at the kind of swing of politics we’ve had and DEI programs getting slashed, our position as women in accountancy is precarious because we don’t have the support, we don’t have the numbers at senior level.” Last year Deloitte US said it would push back on its DEI targets, but the firm’s UK arm reaffirmed its diversity commitments and still runs inclusion networks and reports on progress. Health issues Taboos around women’s health also limit career progression. A Institute of Chartered Accountants of Scotland (ICAS) report from November found many women in accounting are reluctant to discuss menopause, menstruation or miscarriage and often make career decisions based on reproductive health. Workplace support could improve: interviewees said poor privacy, a lack of personal care breaks, unsuitable office layouts and inflexible temperatures all caused discomfort at work. Many women also viewed their company menopause policies as tokenistic. Diversity is the right thing for business Ultimately, improving gender equality in accountancy isn’t just the right thing to do but increasingly the right business thing to do as well. Research from consulting firm McKinsey & Company shows that companies with gender-diverse boards are 25% more likely to be more profitable than their peers. When embedded properly, diversity can drive innovation (research by Deloitte found inclusive companies are 1.7 times as likely to be viewed as innovation leaders in their sector), minimise groupthink, strengthen decision-making, foster a more motivated workplace, attract top talent and allow practices to reach a broader mix of customers. The theme for this year’s IWD is ‘Give to Gain’ and it’s clear those accountancy firms and finance teams who give by investing in equality today will be the ones most likely to gain by thriving tomorrow.
Updated list of high-risk and other monitored jurisdictions as of February 2026 Posted 03/05/2026 by AAT Comment & filed under Anti-money laundering, Anti-money laundering, Members. Find out the outcomes of the latest FATF plenary. Under the UK’s legislation, any business relationship or transaction with a person established in a high-risk third country (HRTC) must be subject to enhanced due diligence (EDD). Under Regulation 33(3)(a) MLR 2017, a HRTC is defined as: “a country named on either of the following lists published by the Financial Action Task Force as they have effect from time to time high-risk jurisdictions subject to a call for action (i.e. ‘black list’) jurisdictions under increased monitoring (i.e. ‘grey list’)” The latest Financial Action Task Force (FATF) Plenary concluded on 13 February 2026, with the following outcomes: ‘Black list’ No changes were made to black list countries. Jurisdictions subject to a FATF call on its members and other jurisdictions to apply countermeasures include: Democratic People’s Republic of Korea (DPRK) Iran Jurisdiction subject to a FATF call on its members and other jurisdictions to apply enhanced due diligence measures proportionate to the risks arising from the jurisdiction. The FATF calls for the application of enhanced due diligence – and not countermeasures – on the below jurisdiction: Myanmar ‘Grey list’ Countries added to the grey list Kuwait Papua New Guinea No jurisdictions were removed from the grey list. Here is the full list of grey list countries. What does this mean for you? Review your existing client list to identify whether any of your clients are now considered to be established in a HRTC and undertake and record appropriate enhanced customer due diligence (EDD) measures. It also includes funds coming from HRTC, beneficial owners or transactions connected to HRTC. Guidance around EDD measures can be found in Section 5 of AML Guidance for the Accountancy Sector (PDF). Ensure your clients’ onboarding procedures, ongoing monitoring, Policies, Controls and Procedures (PCPs) and your firm-wide risk assessment (FWRA) refer to the FATF’s lists. These lists are updated three times a year, on the final day of each FATF plenary meeting, held every February, June and October. AAT’s AML helpline AAT’s AML helpline offers advice for AAT-supervised firms on all aspects of complying with the Money Laundering Regulations, such as advice on how to report suspected illegal activity. To discuss any questions you might have, call us on +44 (0)20 7367 1347 or email [email protected]. We also have a dedicated page with the AML resources. Future of supervision On 21 October 2025, the Government confirmed that the AML supervision for accountancy, legal and Trust and Company Service Provider sectors will move to a single professional services supervisor (SPSS), specifically the Financial Conduct Authority. While this is a big shift, implementation is likely to take years. In the meantime, AAT will continue as the AML supervisor for our licensed members and carry out our normal responsibilities, including Practice Assurance Reviews and risk assessment activities. Therefore, our members must ensure full compliance with the MLR 2017. Read more on the consultation response here. Further guidance and support on risk management and other components of Money Laundering Regulations compliance is available on our AML webpage. You can also contact us on +44 (0)20 7367 1347 or via email at [email protected].
Important update on Authorised Corporate Services Providers Posted 03/05/2026 by AAT Comment & filed under Anti-money laundering, Anti-money laundering, Members. The implementation timeline for ‘presenter’ identity verification measures has been extended. The initial deadline of Spring 2026 for the mandatory identification verification for those submitting/filling/presenting information to Companies House (‘presenters’) has been postponed until no earlier than November 2026. ‘Presenters’ will be required to be identity verified or registered as an Authorised Corporate Services Provider (ACSP). The deadline has been postponed to prioritise the completion of the identity verification transition period for directors and PSCs, and to give Companies House more time to address stakeholder feedback. What AAT says We urge our members to make a well-informed decision about whether becoming an ACSP is the right fit for their firm, particularly in light of compliance risks. This is a separate identity verification standard set by Companies House which is different from the risk-based approach taken in AML compliance. Also, if the evidence is being checked by a person, they must be trained in detecting false documents and be familiar with the guidance on examining identity documents to detect basic forgeries. Companies House cannot recommend any specific training providers but they must follow the Home Office best practice guide. There are also different record-keeping requirements according to which identity verification documentation for ACSP purposes must be kept for 7 years. There will be offenses in relation to breach of record keeping or late submission of information requested by the registrar. Read more about ACSPs There’s also more about ACSPs on Knowledge Hub, including the below articles. Identity verification and Authorised Corporate Service Providers (ACSPs): what you need to know ACSPs, are you meeting the Companies House ID verification standard? What can you do to be accepted as an ACSP by Companies House?