New accounts thresholds in England and Wales
New accounts thresholds for charities in England and Wales apply to financial years ending on or after 30 September 2026. The changes most relevant to small charities:
- An independent examination is now needed above £40,000 income, up from £25,000
- Receipts and payments accounts are available to non-company charities up to £500,000, up from £250,000
- The audit threshold rises from £1 million to £1.5 million
Two things are worth checking before you change anything. Your governing document may still require an examination or audit, and so might a funder's grant conditions. Charitable companies cannot use receipts and payments accounts at any income.
These thresholds apply in England and Wales only. Scottish charities follow OSCR's rules, and Northern Ireland charities follow CCNI's.
General guidance, not legal advice.