AIGAS™ Framework

The AI Governance Standard
for Accounting Firms

AIGAS™ is the structured pathway from zero AI visibility to independently certified governance — built specifically for the accounting profession.

What is AIGAS™?

AIGAS™ — the AI Governance Assurance Standard — is a framework developed specifically for UK accounting and bookkeeping practices. It provides a clear, proportionate, and achievable route to demonstrating responsible AI governance.

Unlike generic AI governance frameworks designed for large enterprises, AIGAS™ is built around how accounting firms actually use AI — from bookkeeping automation and tax research to client communication and payroll processing.

  • Designed for practices of all sizes, from sole traders to mid-size firms
  • Aligned with UK GDPR, ICO guidance, and professional body expectations
  • Proportionate — controls matched to the size and risk profile of your firm
  • Practical — built on real-world accounting workflows, not theory

Why a sector-specific standard?

Accounting firms operate under unique obligations — client confidentiality, professional indemnity, regulatory compliance, and fiduciary responsibility. Generic AI governance frameworks do not reflect these specific duties.

AIGAS™ was built from within the profession, by practitioners who understand how AI tools are actually adopted and used in accounting practices.

Four levels of AI governance

Every firm starts with the AI Register. From there, the pathway builds progressively toward full independent certification.

1

AI Register

Free to use

Visibility and documentation

Log every AI tool your firm uses. Capture how it is used, what data is involved, and who is responsible. Establish the baseline that all further governance sits on top of.

  • Full AI tool inventory with risk scoring
  • Exportable PDF report for audits and insurers
  • Readiness assessment for AIGAS™ Bronze
2

AIGAS™ Bronze

Self-certification

Basic governance controls

Implement foundational governance controls — an AI policy, staff training records, approval processes, and documented accountability. Self-certify against the AIGAS™ Bronze criteria.

  • Bespoke AI Governance Policy for your firm
  • Staff training and awareness framework
  • Formal tool approval and review process
3

AIGAS™ Silver

Independently assessed

Full control framework

A comprehensive, independently assessed governance framework covering risk management, incident response, supplier due diligence, and client transparency.

  • Independent assessment by a qualified reviewer
  • Advanced risk management and incident response
  • Supplier and third-party AI governance controls
4

ISO 42001

Full certification

AI Management System certification

Full ISO 42001 certification — the international standard for AI management systems. For firms seeking formal external certification recognised across the profession and by regulators.

  • Internationally recognised AI management standard
  • Full external audit and certification process
  • Ongoing surveillance and continuous improvement

Why firms are starting now

The regulatory and professional body landscape around AI is moving quickly. ICAEW, ACCA, and the ICO are all developing guidance and expectations around how accounting firms govern AI. Firms that have a documented baseline are already better placed than the majority of their peers.

AIGAS™ Bronze and Silver clients are beginning to use governance as a differentiator when pitching for new clients — particularly those in regulated industries or with higher data sensitivity requirements.

Learn more about AIGAS™ at ppcs.uk

ICAEW

Increasingly asking members about AI tool governance and risk management practices

ICO

Expects firms to understand how AI tools process personal and client data under UK GDPR

PI Insurers

Beginning to assess AI governance controls as part of professional indemnity underwriting

Clients

Larger and regulated clients starting to ask directly about AI governance as part of due diligence

Start with the AI Register — free

Step 1 of the AIGAS™ framework. Free to use, takes 15 minutes, and puts you ahead of the majority of UK accounting practices.