A Guide To DBS Checks for Accountants
Anybody who wants to become an accountant or train as one needs to get a DBS Check to make sure that their criminal background is clear of any convictions that would make them unsuitable for the role.
Once a person has studied and attained an accountancy qualification, the next step is to apply for a job and undergo an interview. It is at this stage that a DBS Check may be requested.
Why do accountants need a DBS Check?
An accountant is often entrusted with control over business or personal finances, which makes it a position that requires a responsible person.
Even if they don’t have direct control over the accounts, they are still likely to hold sensitive and confidential information which makes them open to potential bribery and corruption. Accountants also provide advice and assist with important financial decision making.
Under the rules of the Rehabilitation of Offenders Act 1974, anybody working as a certified or chartered accountant must first get a criminal background check in the form of a DBS Check.
What level of DBS Check do accountants need?
Accountants are normally requested to get a Standard DBS Check, which is a mid-level criminal background check, falling in between Basic and Enhanced DBS Checks.
The highest level Enhanced DBS Check is usually reserved for roles that involve direct care or supervision of children or vulnerable adults. Vulnerable adults are classed as people aged 18 or over who are disabled or critically ill.
Therefore, a Standard DBS Check is appropriate for most accountants, as it reveals spent and unspent convictions, warnings, cautions, and reprimands.
It should be noted that although a conviction may be a barrier to employment as an accountant if the nature of the crime involves dishonest deeds such as theft, if the crime is unrelated then it may not count against the applicant in question.
As a side note, the offences that are most likely to mean that an applicant will be automatically turned down for the role of an accountant are any that involve financial misconduct or fraud.
Summary of DBS Checks for Accountants
As a rule, job applicants will need to get a Standard DBS Check before they are allowed to take up a role as an accountant.
If the applicant has an offence such as fraud, theft, or any kind of financial misconduct on their criminal record, then they will be deemed unsuitable for the role.
If you would like to know more about DBS Checks for accountants, or anything else related to criminal background checks, then get in touch with one of our advisors today.
