Chartered and certified accountants in the UK are required to undergo a standard DBS check for accountants when first entering the profession. Later, once in role, DBS checks for accountant positions are standard procedure.
For example, to begin a career as a chartered accountant you must register with The Institute of Chartered Accountants (in England and Wales) or the equivalent body in Scotland and Ireland.
Part of the vetting process for The Institute of Chartered Accountants includes the completion of a standard DBS check when you apply.
Other related bodies for accountants, such as The Chartered Institute of Management Accountants, The Association of Accounting Technicians and the Association of Certified Chartered Accountants all require declaration of any criminal convictions during the application process which are assessed on a case by case basis.
Under the Rehabilitation of Offenders Act of 1974, CRB checks for accountants are necessary to ensure suitability for the profession due to the weighting of the financial advice accountants give to organisations and individuals.
DBS checks for accountants are standard DBS checks. This type of DBS check will verify whether you have any unspent or spent convictions, cautions, reprimands or warnings in existence on the Police National Computer.
If you do have an offence on your criminal record, it doesn’t automatically mean you will be prevented from pursuing a career in accountancy. Fraud and financial misconduct are likely to have the biggest impact on whether or not your application is accepted. If your application is rejected you will be refunded the cost of any fees. Learn more about DBS checks
