Understanding Anti-Money Laundering (AML) Compliance at Ellacott Morris

At Ellacott Morris, we prioritise Anti-Money Laundering (AML) compliance to safeguard your financial interests. As licensed AAT accountants, we adhere to UK industry best practices, ensuring our AML responsibilities are at the forefront of our operations.

Critical Points of AML Compliance:

1. Registration:

Certain businesses, including accountants, must be registered with a supervisory authority. Check if your business should be registered at Government AML Registration.

2. Assessment:

We conduct comprehensive risk assessments to identify potential money laundering risks associated with our business or clients. This includes analysing business types, services, fund transactions, locations, and more, with additional complexity for high-risk clients.

3. Customer Due Diligence (CDD):

Regular CDD procedures are in place to confirm client identities and the legitimacy of financial activities. This involves verifying identification and proof of address, conducting background checks, and retaining relevant documentation.

4. Internal Controls:

We implement robust internal controls and foster a culture of compliance. Our AML policies and procedures are regularly evaluated for effectiveness. Our founder and director, Michelle Morris, serves as the Nominated Officer overseeing these controls.

5. Staff Training:

Continuous education is provided to our team to ensure a clear understanding of AML implications and importance. Regular training sessions are conducted, and individual understanding is regularly assessed.

6. AML Manual:

Our AML Manual contains detailed procedures, controls, and systems aimed at detecting, preventing, and reporting money laundering. It encompasses risk assessments, customer due diligence measures, internal controls, policies, compliance monitoring, and more.

7. Monitoring & Reporting:

Identified suspicious activities are promptly reported to the National Crime Agency (NCA) using a Suspicious Activity Report (SAR).

8. High-risk Activities:

We remain vigilant regarding high-risk activities, locations, or positions such as cash-intensive businesses, shell companies, offshore financial centres, casinos, cryptocurrency exchanges, and private banking services for high-net-worth individuals.

In conclusion, AML compliance is not just a formality for us; it's a crucial and intricate aspect of our business processes. We are committed to protecting both our business and your interests. If you have any questions about AML, feel free to contact a member of the Ellacott Morris team.