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• # 73199
• Tue 26 Jul 2011 11:15 AM

Hi

I am waiting for my Computerised Level 3 results and if I have passed I will apply for membership and a practising license. I have an ACCA qualification (2001) and I am looking to set up for myself after having worked in industry until now. I am looking to advertise (once I have my license!) for the following: producing of management accounts, budgeting, self assessment and support to small businesses setting up computerised accounts.

I am a bit stuck with regard to a business name. Does the practising license combined with an ICB membership allow you to use the word 'accountant' or 'accountancy'. I am just not sure what the rules are with regard to naming your business.

Thank you

Charlotte

• Charlotte Grace

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• # 73204
• Tue 26 Jul 2011 12:30 PM

I made a point recently on another forum that I thought there was a trend towards bookkeepers using "accountancy services" on their website (without actually saying they are accountants). Accountants isn't a protected name anyway so there is nothing to stop someone calling themselves an accountant. For myself, whenever I finally get round to sitting my level III exams, I will be advertising myself as a bookkeeper. I may go on over the next few years to study material that is more in the domain of accountants but I will still be a bookkeeper. At no point will I be calling myself an accountant.

What people will be looking for is a bookkeeper to do accountant's works at bookkeeper's prices. I've this funny feeling that may be one of these statements I drop from time to time that causes offence even if I don't intend it to. 

EDIT : Too many "anyways". 
EDIT 2 : My comment about there being nothing to stop anyone from calling themself an accountant isn't intended to disagree with James' post above as I agree with what he says. 




Edited at 26 Jul 2011 12:34 PM GMT

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• # 73205
• Tue 26 Jul 2011 12:32 PM

Thank you James! I think because I have called myself an accountant now for so many years (working in industry), it just seems weird to change it to something else. But I take on board that what matters is that the name you use is in line with the services you offer.

Kind regards

Charlotte

• Charlotte Grace

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