Lucy Brown on Making Anti-Money Laundering Compliance Easier
AML.
It’s not the most exciting topic in the world.
It’s complicated. It’s full of red tape. It feels like a bureaucratic necessity rather than a business advantage.
And yet, it’s one of the most important responsibilities for accountants and bookkeepers.
At Engager LABS, Lucy Brown took the stage with a mission:
To make AML easier. To move beyond the checkbox mentality. To stop accountants from drowning in admin.
Why AML Matters (Even If It’s a Pain)
Let’s be honest, most firms treat AML like an obligation rather than an opportunity.
But here’s the reality:
👉 You are the gatekeepers of the UK financial system.
👉 It’s your responsibility to detect and deter financial crime.
👉 Failing to comply isn’t just risky. It’s illegal.
And yet, many accountants still struggle with the process.
Instead of fighting against compliance, Lucy’s message was simple:
✅ Embrace automation.
✅ Use the right tools.
✅ Make AML work for you, not against you.
Most Firms Are Stuck in Manual Mode
AML isn’t just about ID checks.
It’s an ongoing process.
You don’t just verify a client once and forget about it. You need to:
🔹 Risk assess every client.
🔹 Monitor them continuously.
🔹 Report suspicious activity.
🔹 Document everything for audits.
“If you’re still handling AML manually, you’re making life harder than it needs to be.”
And that’s where software comes in.
AML Software That Actually Helps
Not all AML software is created equal.
Many firms think they’re covered just because they have a basic ID check tool.
That’s not enough.
Lucy highlighted best-in-class AML software, like Xama, AMLHQ, FirmCheck, ThirdFort, TaxCalc, and AMLCC, that offer a full AML solution, not just a quick check.
What the Best AML Software Does:
✅ Integrates with your practice management software (like Engager)
✅ Pulls company data directly from Companies House
✅ Automates ID & address verification
✅ Runs biometric tests to confirm client identity
✅ Checks for politically exposed persons (PEPs) & sanctions
✅ Provides risk assessments & continuous monitoring
✅ Creates a full audit trail for compliance
The goal?
To make AML seamless, reducing manual work for accountants and improving client experience.
Why Automating AML Saves Time & Money
The benefits of AML software go beyond compliance.
It’s about efficiency.
It’s about protecting your firm.
It’s about removing friction from client onboarding.
The 5 Biggest Advantages of AML Software:
1️⃣ Faster & Simpler Client Due Diligence
- No more back-and-forth emails requesting ID.
- Software pulls client data automatically.
- Clients verify themselves—no need for in-person meetings.
“At onboarding, you want to WOW your client. Not overwhelm them with admin.”
2️⃣ More Accurate Risk Assessments
- AI-powered tools help you classify risk levels.
- Automated checks pull from multiple data sources.
- Customisable risk ratings ensure consistency across all clients.
3️⃣ Real-Time Monitoring & Alerts
- Get notified if client circumstances change.
- Track new directors, company status, or fraud warnings.
- Stay ahead of risk rather than reacting after it’s too late.
4️⃣ Full Compliance Without the Stress
- Track document expirations & updates.
- Maintain a secure, organised digital record.
- Prove compliance instantly if audited.
“If it’s not documented, it didn’t happen.”
5️⃣ A Scalable System for Growth
- Less time spent on AML = more time for client work.
- No bottlenecks as your firm grows.
- A compliance process that actually supports your business.
Watch Lucy Brown’s Full Talk
See her full Engager LABS session here:
Why Every Accountant Should Rethink AML
AML isn’t just a legal requirement.
It’s part of running a smarter firm.
It’s about:
✔ Protecting your firm from financial crime.
✔ Making onboarding faster & easier for clients.
✔ Removing the stress of audits & compliance.
Lucy’s takeaway was clear:
“You don’t need to suffer through AML. The right tools make it easier, faster, and safer.”
So, is your firm treating AML as a hassle or an opportunity to streamline & grow?
✅ Want to Automate Your AML Process?
Check out Engager.app and Xama discover how seamless AML integration can transform your firm.
