I realise that it is probably just personal preference but having become a member of ICB I have recently decided that IAB is a better home for me and am in the process of becoming an IAB member.
I currently work in two employed positions so don't really need to worry about MLR and I suppose that I don't really need to be a member of either one.
The fact that IAB qualifications are recognised and that they give recognition for OU level 2 courses does it for me. IAB have been super to deal with thus far and very prompt in their response time.
I would be really interested to learn why forum members chose which body they joined.
Best wishes
-- Edited by Sofia on Saturday 10th of September 2011 09:25:53 PM
I currently work in two employed positions so don't really need to worry about MLR and I suppose that I don't really need to be a member of either one.
I don't think it is apropriate for me to comment on IAB V ICB, because I have not been a member of the ICB - so have no personal experience of the organisation.
However I was disappointed to think you felt you don't need to be a member of either organisation, just because you are an employee! Can I ask if you claim tax relief as an employee for your professional membership, because if you don't, did you know you may be able to do so? The HMRC recognise the benefits for employees to be members of professional bodies, which is why they will allow tax relief on membership contributions.
Many members of other financial professional organisations don't have to worry about MLR, but still find it helps them find employment as being a member of a professional body does give you advantages over others who are not. I do know one IAB member who is the Company Financial controller supervising 3 employees who are "data imput clerks" on Sage. The 3 employees have not joined any professional body. He has never been in practice only an employee, throughout his working life, and was told by the directors of the company he works for, that the reason he was offered the supervisory roll was because he a member of a professional body.
-- Edited by YLB-HO on Monday 12th of September 2011 03:05:42 PM
I am surprised this has not had any responses, apart from Frauke's.
Just to clarify, just because you are employed does not mean you don't have to worry about MLR and forget about it. You still have to be aware of it, you just don't need to do the checks or have a licence.
Anyhow, back to the question, Sofia I notice from other forums you are refering to the OU B190.
This is a Introduction to Accountancy, as labeled by the OU. The ICB and AAT both agree that it is an introduction and award exemptions from their foundation and basic levels only.
The IAB differ in opinion and offer full exemptions and full membership.
It is a very good course, but is not to be compared with the higher levels, and it is not enough to setup a practice on your own.
The OU K01 course is very good, it leads on nicely, and that will get you ICB exemptions from the Level 1, 2 and 3 bookkeeping levels. You would then be able to join as a Certified Bookkeeper.
If you want to discuss exemptions from any courses you may have please feel free to call the ICB, you can ask for me, I would be glad to help.
