The newly qualified CA’s guide to working in practice
Are you a newly qualified CA working in practice? Here are the key information and resources to help you get started.
From our dedicated Practice Support team to our Evolve support programme, there are a range of ways in which we provide specialist assistance to ICAS Members who are working in practice.
Below you’ll find links to all these resources, along with some important information and key first steps to help you get started.
What are my new obligations as a Member of ICAS?
Keep your details up to date
As a Member you have an obligation to notify ICAS of any changes to your registered (business or home) address and practice or employment details. You should do this within a period of one month of the change. You can update your personal information here.
Continuous Professional Development
As an ICAS Member you have a requirement to undertake Continuing Professional Development (CPD). Read our guide to getting started to learn why CPD is important, what’s involved and where you can find the additional information and resources you need.
Report disciplinary matters
As an ICAS Member it’s your duty to report any facts or matters which, in your reasonable opinion, indicate that a fellow Member, CA Student Member, Affiliate or Firm may be liable to disciplinary action – through professional incompetence, professional misconduct or unsatisfactory professional conduct. You can learn more here about what’s involved and how to report disciplinary matters to ICAS.
The ICAS Rules and Regulations
The Rules and Regulations are designed to ensure that ICAS meets its objectives, which include maintaining and promoting the status of the profession of accountant and upholding amongst Members a high standard of efficiency and professional conduct.
Take some time to read through the Rules and Regulations to learn more about your various additional obligations as a Member of ICAS.
Can I provide accountancy services now that I’m a CA?
To engage in practice, you’ll need a Practising Certificate (PC). Essentially, engaging in practice is providing, or holding yourself out to provide, accounting and related services, either personally or through a firm. (This does not include where you are providing accountancy services to your employer.)
You can learn more here about when a Practising Certificate is required and how to apply for one.
How will ICAS support me as a Member working in practice?
Members in Practice Advisory Board
The Members in Practice Advisory Board represents ICAS Members working in practice. It discusses the issues which practitioners face in their day-to-day working lives and ensures that ICAS has the necessary structures in place to support them.
Practice support
The expert members of the ICAS Practice Support Team are available by email and phone to provide guidance, advice, counsel and support to Members working in practice.
Professional resources for practice
We provide a wide range of additional professional resources designed specifically for CAs working in practice. You’ll find a wealth of technical information, guidance, essential updates and support services.
The Evolve support programme
Available to Members in an ICAS CA firm, Evolve provides tailor-made services and products designed to support you with your clients and help to grow your practice.
General practice manual
The General Practice Manual (GPM) contains helpsheets with advice and guidance to assist with the day-to-day work carried out by general practices, along with answers to frequently asked questions, highlighting many of the issues you may need to consider.
Everything you need to get started
At icas.com/newly-qualified you’ll find links to everything you need to get started, including ways to make new professional connections, information about CPD and a guide to your ethical obligations.