Hi. I have been looking at this forum for a while.
I have been looking into the idea of training to become a book keeper, and have found loads of helpful information on this site. So i thought i would sign up and introduce myself.
I have been thinking along the lines of doing an ICB Qualification from home, while working still to provide an income
glad to see that you've been finding the information on here useful.
kind regards,
Shaun.
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Shaun
Responses are not meant as a substitute for professional advice. Answers are intended as outline only the advice of a qualified professional with access to all relevant information should be sought before acting on any response given.
Goodluck on becoming a Bookkeeper. But if you are wanting to work for a company, then I would suggest doing the AAT as this is more recognised than the ICB. However if you are wanting to become a self employed bookkeeper then maybe joining the ICB is ideal.
Also look into the cost as well when becoming a bookkeeper, like membership fees, practice certificate, indem insurance and registering with the money laundering as this is what you will need to start off.
I don't want to put you off, but alot of new bookkeepers don't realise this at first.
You don't always have to be a member with an institute, therefore you want need a practice certificate, but you would still need to be registered with the money laundering. (HMRC is probably the best) at £120 per year.
Welcome to the Forum. We have had loads of discussions previously about which professional body is best in different circumstances. I'm sure you'll find some of it useful.
Thanks for being soo welcoming. I have read a good few posts on the site. When i left school i wanted to go into accounts, but didnt get the qualifications to make the course i was looking at doing. But did a business course which i never completed becasue of personal problems. The course had a lot of accountancy course worked which interested me. Now a few year down the line, i am looking into getting back into things. I was thinking of going along the self employed route, as I know alot of people who could be clients.
Go for it Adam. From the little I know, the ICB courses seem to be an excellent place to start, especially whilst holding down the day job. There are others that have transformed their horizons within a couple of years by studying AAT, IAB and myriad other bodies.
You state you want to train to become an ICB Bookkeeper. ICB have a trading membership tier system which are AICB and MICB
AICB allows members to provide Bookkeeping services to final balance to Sole Traders only, you can perform Bookkeeping services to limited companies but only to trial balance, AICB membership requires qualifications in Levels 1 and 2 Manual Bookkeeping and Level 2 Computerised Bookkeeping.
Should you wish to provide Bookkeeping services to charities, corporate, partnerships, limited companies as well as sole traders then MICB membership will be required. For this qualifications in Levels 1, 2 and 3 Manual Bookkeeping and Levels 2 and 3 Computerised Bookkeeping will be required. Self Assessment and Payroll are optional but if gained means more services can be provided.
As an ICB member they will sort out all the legalities inasmuch as indemnity etc. The ICB also have a member benefits scheme where discounts are available on the high street and travel. Why not give James a call at the ICB 0845 060 2345, I am sure he will be happy to answer any of your questions.
You can also find the different study methods available, from Self Study workbooks, classroom and distance learning training providers. If choosing the latter it is wise to shop around.
Believe or not i was just looking on your website before coming back on here. I have been looking at all the different courses that you and other provided do.
If distance learning is your preferred training method I would certainly suggest phoning a few providers, many things to take into account such as quality of materials, response of support, choice of software etc. Good Luck!
