ICB (Institute of Certified Bookkeepers)
Specialist bookkeeping body with AML supervisory authority; alternative to AAT for self-employed bookkeepers.
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Visit Official Site →Founded
1996
HQ
London, UK
Accreditation
ICB is a HMRC-recognised supervisory body for Anti-Money Laundering — practising members are supervised under MLR 2017. Not an FRC-recognised audit body.
Target Audience
Self-employed bookkeepers and SME bookkeeping practitioners; alternative entry-level qualification to AAT.
Key Features
- Three levels: Level 2 Certificate, Level 3 Certificate, Level 4 Diploma
- Each level: 2-4 modules + practical assessment
- Practising members may operate self-employed under ICB licence + supervision under UK Money Laundering Regulations 2017
- Smaller community than AAT (~150,000+ members)
How to Get This Certification
Prerequisites
Open entry (no formal prerequisites).
Accreditation: ICB is a HMRC-recognised supervisory body for Anti-Money Laundering — practising members are supervised under MLR 2017. Not an FRC-recognised audit body.
Why Get Certified — ROI
Salary Impact
ICB-qualified bookkeepers in UK: £22,000-£40,000 employed; self-employed practising members £25,000-£70,000 depending on client base (ICB 2024 Practice Survey).
Career Benefits
- What makes this stand out
- Specialist bookkeeping body with AML supervisory authority; alternative to AAT for self-employed bookkeepers.
- Industry recognition
- ICB is a HMRC-recognised supervisory body for Anti-Money Laundering — practising members are supervised under MLR 2017. Not an FRC-recognised audit body.
Who Should Get This Certification
Ideal for:
- Self-employed bookkeepers and SME bookkeeping practitioners
- alternative entry-level qualification to AAT.
Consider alternatives if:
- Lower tier than chartered credentials
- Smaller community than AAT
Pricing
Pricing varies.
Weaknesses
- Lower tier than chartered credentials
- Smaller community than AAT
- No audit / chartered-accountant authority
Markets Served
UK
Disclosure: This page contains affiliate links.
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