Institute of Accountants and Bookkeepers

The professional body for bookkeepers and accountants

Ofqual-regulated qualifications, membership that supports you at every stage of your career, and AML supervision for practices in the UK and worldwide.

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50+

Years supporting the profession, since 1973

Ofqual

Regulated awarding organisation for IAB qualifications

HM Treasury

Appointed AML supervisor, overseen by OPBAS

3

Professional membership grades: AIAB, MIAB and FIAB

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Run by industry professionals

Run by people with real industry experience, we have the expertise to help you fulfil your ambitions.

IAB Team

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Qualifications trusted by industry

Developed by industry experts, our qualifications are practical, relevant and focused on real career outcomes.

Explore our qualifications

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A community to grow with

Built on sharing knowledge and experiences, our community is one of our biggest assets.

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AML Regulation

The IAB provides Anti-Money Laundering supervision to bookkeeping and accountancy practices.

AML Supervision Details

Membership

The IAB’s primary role is to support its members

Whether you’re an experienced bookkeeper, payroll specialist or accountant, or a student just starting out in finance, the IAB prides itself on the career-enhancing support it offers its members.

Through our qualifications and short courses, you’ll have access to the skills you need to establish and continue to build a rewarding career. Add to this the community we offer and you’ll have everything you need to fulfil your potential.

Exclusive Benefits for IAB Members

Since 1973 · Worldwide

IAB Global Reach

Founded in 1973, today the IAB is shaping the future of bookkeeping and finance globally.

IAB Qualifications Worldwide

From the IAB blog

Latest from the IAB

Companies house filing: accountants and bookkeepers discussing small company accounts

Companies House pauses small company profit and loss filing plans

November 2, 2026

Companies House has paused plans for small companies and micro-entities to file profit and loss accounts from April 2028, while mandatory software filing stays on track. What it means for accountants, bookkeepers and their clients.

IAB AML Supervision Report 2026 now available to download

October 30, 2026

Our AML Supervision Report 2026 is now available to download. It covers 6 April 2025 to 5 April 2026, with inspection outcomes, enforcement data and what the FCA transition means for your practice.

Sarah's View: What Budget 2026 Means for Your Small Business Clients

October 28, 2026

IAB CEO Sarah Palmer sets out what Budget 2026 means for small business clients, from business rates relief and Business Asset Disposal Relief to payroll, the trading allowance and MTD, with six actions to take this week.

Read what our members have to say about us

    
 
 
       Posted on Google  
   
   Mo Karolia 
 
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. The IAB (Institute of Accountants and Bookkeepers) are an amazing company with a support team that is 2nd to none. I have found when ever there is a question to be asked they will always point me in the right direction and support me tirelessly in my career. The online support and the ever growing assistance has been exceptional and has completely changed my life for the better. I truly am honored to be working with such an amazing team with a fantastic work ethic and support system for ALL its members
  
 
      Posted on Google  
   
   Rachel Roden 
 
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. IAB are a fantastic organisation who offer training and support for bookkeepers and accountants across the UK.  Their website is my first go to for information and a great support.
  
 
      Posted on Google  
   
   Siobhan Draper 
 
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Invested, supportive and professional organisation that really looks out for it's members 👌
  
 
      Posted on Google  
   
   Gokul Gokul 
 
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Excellent service
  
 
      Posted on Google  
   
   Janet Smith 
 
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. I've been a member of the IAB for 10 years now and have always found them to be extremely helpful. In 2020 when we all got hit by the pandemic, the IAB really stepped up and really helped us all through the lockdown with up-to-date information on furlough and payroll changes.
I can't rate them highly enough. Thank you
  
 
      Posted on Google  
   
   Jennifer Barker MIAB 
 
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. I have been a member of the IAB for many years, through my whole bookkeeping career. The IAB shows my clients that I am a professional in my field and that I comply with high standards to practice as a bookkeeper.
For the last 12 months I have attended all their coffee mornings, that have been priceless support for my knowledge of the current changes in the industry. The information received adds great value to my business and the receiving end of my clients.
Now working as an IAB Ambassador, I have had the opportunity to work with the team and other bookkeepers, discussing all current and future support provided to all their members.
I am very excited about all the plans ahead; the new website is excellent and the ever-growing support is priceless!

Help & answers

IAB membership and AML supervision questions

Short answers to the questions we are asked most. For more detail, see the Membership FAQs and AML supervision with the IAB.

Do bookkeepers and accountants need AML supervision?

Yes. If you provide accountancy, bookkeeping, payroll, tax or related financial services to the public by way of business, the Money Laundering Regulations 2017 require you to be supervised for anti-money laundering before you trade. Supervision is not optional, and you cannot self-certify.

Can the IAB be my AML supervisor instead of HMRC?

Yes. Every firm or sole practitioner in scope must be supervised by one approved supervisor: either HMRC or an approved Professional Body Supervisor, such as the IAB. The IAB is appointed by HM Treasury, and its supervision work is overseen by OPBAS, part of the Financial Conduct Authority. Find out more about AML supervision with the IAB.

What do I need to apply for IAB AML supervision?

You need Member (MIAB) or Fellow (FIAB) membership, proof of professional indemnity insurance covering your services, and your documented AML policies and procedures, including your firm risk assessment and client due diligence procedures. Existing members can apply directly. If you are not yet a member, apply for membership first.

Do I need an IAB qualification to join?

No. You can join with a relevant qualification from the IAB or another recognised awarding body, and experienced practitioners can join through the experience route. See how to join the IAB.

What are the IAB membership grades?

There are three professional grades: Associate (AIAB), Member (MIAB) and Fellow (FIAB). Each grade gives you designatory letters, and Member and Fellow are eligible for IAB AML supervision. Compare the membership grades.

Who can become a member of the IAB?

IAB-UK membership is open to residents of England, Wales, Scotland, Northern Ireland, the Channel Islands and the Isle of Man. Overseas residents can join with IAB-Overseas membership.