The Charity Commission has today launched a new digital tool to allow a third party, such as a charity’s accountant, to submit its accounts on the charity’s behalf.

Previously only the charity itself was able to submit its accounts. The new service has the option for an “accountant or other nominated agent” to submit its accounts.

A Commission spokeswoman said: “This new tool aims to make the process easier for third parties involved in the accounts process, enabling them to submit accounts once finalised on behalf of their client.”

To use the service, a charity must first tell the Commission that the adviser is authorised to act on the charity’s behalf. To do this it should should log on to the Commission's website to change its details and enter the email address of the third party in the ‘trusted third party’ field.

All charitable incorporated organisations, regardless of income, and all other charities with an income over £25,000 must submit their accounts and a trustees’ annual report to the commission. Charity trustees are responsible for ensuring that the accounts are prepared and submitted.

More information on the third party portal can be found on the Charity Commission's website.