An Essential Guide to Anti-Money Laundering (AML) Checks

While validating a candidate's identification may appear to be a regular activity, AML checks, or Anti-Money Laundering checks, are crucial to the organisation’s security. These legally obligatory inspections extend beyond simple identity verification. They operate as watchdogs, methodically vetting persons against databases of sanctioned businesses and individuals who may be implicated in money laundering. This vigilance serves to keep organisations from becoming unsuspecting partners in criminal activities, protecting not just themselves but also their customers from unintentionally subsidising illegal operations.

What are Anti Money Laundering Checks

Anti-Money Laundering checks, often known as AML searches or AML checking, serve as a safeguard against money laundering. Money laundering is the process by which criminals disguise the source of their illicit gains in order to make them appear legitimate. AML checks help to authenticate candidates’ identities and monitor transactions for unusual patterns that could be related to money laundering.

What Do AML Searches Include

When onboarding new clients or employees, organisations frequently run a series of AML checks. These checks may include:

• Know Your Customer (KYC): This entails validating an applicant's identification and determining their source of income. This can be accomplished through document verification and background checks.


• ID Verification: Confirming a person's identity with government-issued documentation is a critical step.


• Electoral Register ID Checks: Cross-referencing with election rolls provides an additional layer of verification.


• Sanction Searches: Screening against government lists of people and organisations with budgetary constraints is critical.


• Transaction Monitoring: Keeping a check on account activity for unusual patterns can aid in detecting potential money laundering activities.

Who Needs Anti Money Laundering Checks

AML checking standards are particularly important for industries like:

• Financial Institutions: Because of their access to financial information, accountants play an important role in detecting fraudulent activities.


• Legal Organisations: AML checks protect lawyers from being unintentionally lured into money laundering schemes.


• Those following the Senior Managers and Certification Regime (SMCR): This UK regulation emphasises the necessity of AML compliance among financial professionals.

Are AML Checks a Legal Requirement

AML checks are a legal requirement for many businesses, particularly those in the financial sector. Anti-money laundering regulations stipulate that companies must take proactive steps to identify and report suspicious activity. AML checking form a vital part of these efforts, ensuring compliance and safeguarding the financial system.

How Long Do Anti Money Laundering (AML) Checks Take

The time it takes to complete AML checks varies based on the type of check being conducted.

• Standard AML checks: These automated checks usually take about 10 minutes to complete. If everything is in order, a customer may be approved instantly. This is ideal in low-risk situations.


• Enhanced Due Diligence: In higher-risk scenarios or when red flags are discovered, a more thorough analysis may be required. This enhanced due diligence (EDD) can take at least a day and possibly longer depending on the complexity. To identify the customer's risk level, a more in-depth investigation of their background and financial activity is required.

Information Required to Conduct AML Searches

The applicant may be asked to give certain information as part of the AML check procedure to assist with verification and risk assessment.

This usually includes:

• Personal Identification Information: The applicant’s full name, date of birth, and residential address are standard requirements.


• Documentation for ID verification: Official documents, such as passports or driver's licences, will be required to verify their identification.


• Financial Activity Information: In certain cases, they may be required to provide information about their financial transactions, such as the source of your funds. This aids in determining potential money laundering risks.

How Often Should Anti Money Laundering Checks Be Carried Out

As a general rule, AML checks are often performed once a year, but it varies as per the organisation’s compliance and regulatory requirements.

What is the Importance of AML Checks

Anti-Money Laundering (AML) checks are not just a box-ticking exercise; they're a vital line of defence for businesses of all sizes.

Here's why conducting regular AML checks is essential:

• Preventing Criminal Activity: AML checks act as a deterrent against money laundering and terrorist financing. Businesses can reduce the likelihood of fraudsters infiltrating their systems by authenticating customer and employees’ identities and monitoring transactions. This protects the company's reputation and keeps them from facing legal consequences.


• Reduced Risk for Everyone: Effective AML checks reduce the risk of money laundering for both the company and its employees. This contributes to a safer and more secure work environment for everyone.


• Compliance with Regulations: AML regulations exist to combat financial crime. Businesses that fail to conduct proper AML checks risk hefty fines and penalties. Regular AML checks guarantee that these requirements are followed, avoiding legal issues and reputational damage.


• Mitigating Unintentional Involvement: Businesses can unintentionally become involved in money laundering activities. Robust AML checks assist in identifying and preventing such instances, so safeguarding the organisation from unintentional financial crime and its consequences.

Achieve Seamless AML Compliance With Complygate

Effective AML compliance is an ongoing process, and several solutions are available to assist businesses in strengthening their defences. Businesses that manage AML risks proactively can establish a more secure environment for themselves and their clients, as well as demonstrate their commitment to financial integrity. Consider partnering with a credible AML solution provider, such as Complygate. We simplify compliance by providing comprehensive AML checks, expert guidance, and user-friendly technology.

Contact us today to understand how Complygate can assist you in implementing a thorough and secure AML compliance strategy.