By law, you must get your charity's accounts externally scrutinised if either:

• its annual gross income is more than £25,000 in the accounting year
• its governing document requires this

External scrutiny may involve an audit or an independent examination. It reassures donors and beneficiaries that your charity is maintaining proper financial records and that its accounts reflect those records.

If your charity’s gross income is under £25,000, the accounts do not need to be externally examined unless there is a requirement in your governing document. If your charity’s gross income is over £25,000, you should read our guidance to help you choose the right option for your charity:

• Do I need an audit or an independent examination?

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