Thinking of training to be an accountant. CIMA?

[skinnyamericano]

I'm thinking of changing careers/going back to work and doing my accountancy exams (probably distance-learning).

Would CIMA be a good choice if I ultimately want to be self-employed?

It seems like a good choice if you are not currently working in finance, but I don't think you can sign companies' or individuals' accounts off with this qualification?

I'm going round in circles, so any advice would be greatly appreciated. Thanks.

Watching with interest. Same plans here and dont know where to start.

Are you planning on being a self employed auditor? If so then it would be CA you would need - not CIMA. CIMA is management accountancy so doesn't lend itself to self-employment and isn't suitable for doing audits etc...

I used to underwrite mortgages for self employed people and we wouldn't accept accounts unless they were signed off by someone registered with ACCA.

I'm CIMA qualified. You can sign off accounts that are exempt from audit. You'd need 3 years of practical experience in specific areas in order to qualify so would need to spend time in a management accounts role. I don't think it's the right qualification for you if you want to go into audit or private practice accounts. Have you looked at ACCA?

Do you have any accountancy experience? I think it would be hard to freelance without some preferably small practice experience. You could start with book keeping / AAT qualification and see if you enjoy it / can get work.

Sorry for not returning until now - manic afternoon!

Thanks everyone, for your replies.

I thought I would do the CIMA certificate or ACCA first. I have a relevant degree, but need a bit of a refresher.

I have done payroll, sales ledger and various accounts for charities (as in Treasurer role).

After a proper read of your comments, I'll come back again. Thanks.

Sorry, not ACCA first, AAT.

CIMA is for management accountants. You need ACCA or ACA. You could try the AAT or ACCA Foundation first. Remember you also need to get a job and have your training log signed off to be properly qualified.

Thanks flippity - do you have to have your training log signed off by a special firm (I suppose what used to be the 'big 4', I think they were called?)?

I'm getting on a bit and am not sure they would want me!

Hi, no you don't need to work for a big 4 anymore.
Don't waste your time on AAT, go straight to CIMA or ACCA as their foundation papers are equivalent to AAT and lead straight into the professional exams.

Great, thanks penguin. I'll have a more in-depth look at ACCA now.

I'm CIMA and self-employed. There are fewer CIMA accountants that are self-employed but it is doable. It depends on what you want to do. I offer management accountants to small businesses. CIMA accountants can't audit but can sign off accounts.

Good luck, I wasted time doing AAT, wish I hadn't!