Accountants for Charitable Trusts

A Charitable Trust is a legal structure where trustees hold and manage property or funds for charitable purposes. Unlike CIOs or charitable companies, charitable trusts are established under a trust deed and trustees have legal ownership of the trust property for the benefit of the charity's beneficiaries.

Charitable trusts must be registered with the Charity Commission and demonstrate that they provide public benefit.

Yes, Charitable Trusts must complete an annual Trust Tax Return (SA900) with HMRC, even if they are exempt from tax. This includes reporting all income received during the tax year.

We can prepare and file your trust tax return, ensuring all income is correctly reported and any available tax reliefs are claimed.

Charitable Trusts must prepare their accounts in accordance with:

• FRS 102 - The UK accounting standard (for larger trusts)
• Charity SORP - Statement of Recommended Practice for charities
• Receipts & Payments - Simplified accounts for smaller trusts
• Charity Commission guidance - Reporting requirements

Smaller trusts with income under £25,000 may use receipts and payments accounts rather than full accrual accounting.

Charitable Trusts can benefit from significant tax exemptions:

• Income Tax relief on charitable expenditure
• Corporation Tax exemption on charity income
• Capital Gains Tax exemption on charitable disposals
• Inheritance Tax relief on gifts to charity
• Business rates relief (subject to conditions)
• Stamp Duty Land Tax exemption on property transfers

Not necessarily. Charitable Trusts may qualify for an independent examination instead of a full audit if they meet certain criteria:

• Income under £1 million (for examination)
• Income under £250,000 (if charity is small)
• Under certain thresholds for gross assets

We provide independent examination services as a cost-effective alternative to audit for eligible charitable trusts.

We offer fixed-fee pricing for Charitable Trust accounting services with no hidden costs. The exact fee depends on your trust's size, income, complexity, and the services you require.

Our packages typically include annual accounts, trust tax return preparation, Charity Commission filing support, and ongoing accountancy advice. Book a free consultation to receive a tailored quote.