Well it may surprise you but quite a few people are. As Business Liaison Manager at Companies House, part of my role is giving presentations to accountants and businesses. Whilst at speaking events a number of people in the accountancy profession have said things like:
I have turned away people who have asked me to incorporate a community interest company (CIC)” and others have turned away those who have asked them to file accounts for a CIC.
This seems to be because there is a lack of awareness of what a CIC is, and how easy it is incorporate one. People also don’t always realise that it is just like any private limited company, but with additional features; so the filing obligations are almost identical.
A CIC isn’t scary
Starting with the basics, a CIC is a type of company for people who want to be involved in a business that benefits the community. This means a CIC is not for personal gain, so directors and employers will not make millions of pounds from the CIC. Instead the money goes to the community.
A CIC is easy to register! It is much the same as setting up any private limited company but with a specific constitution and clear objectives. But most importantly a CIC has as an asset lock which means that it cannot be asset stripped for private gain.
A CIC also needs to show the Regulator that it benefits the community and does not exist for political aims. CICs work in every sector, including:
- business services
- childcare
- education
- energy
- environment
- health and social care
- housing
- media
- media
- sports
- the arts
Filing accounts for a CIC
Like all other limited companies a CIC has obligations. CIC accounts are prepared the same way as any other limited company. The only difference is a CIC must send their accounts each year with a community interest report (form CIC34) and a £15 fee. This form clearly states what the CIC has done throughout the year and how the community has benefitted from its activities. A CIC must also keep the community in touch with its activities throughout the year.
I hope this has cleared up any confusion surrounding CICs. Filing accounts for CICs shouldn’t be daunting. So, if you wish to know more please get in touch below.
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