{"id":32844,"date":"2025-12-12T11:06:16","date_gmt":"2025-12-12T10:06:16","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/figsflow.com\/us\/?p=32844"},"modified":"2025-12-15T07:16:55","modified_gmt":"2025-12-15T06:16:55","slug":"complete-guide-to-us-aml-compliance-obligations","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/figsflow.com\/us\/complete-guide-to-us-aml-compliance-obligations\/","title":{"rendered":"Complete Guide to US AML Compliance Obligations"},"content":{"rendered":"\t\t<div data-elementor-type=\"wp-post\" data-elementor-id=\"32844\" class=\"elementor elementor-32844\" data-elementor-settings=\"{&quot;element_pack_global_tooltip_width&quot;:{&quot;unit&quot;:&quot;px&quot;,&quot;size&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;sizes&quot;:[]},&quot;element_pack_global_tooltip_width_tablet&quot;:{&quot;unit&quot;:&quot;px&quot;,&quot;size&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;sizes&quot;:[]},&quot;element_pack_global_tooltip_width_mobile&quot;:{&quot;unit&quot;:&quot;px&quot;,&quot;size&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;sizes&quot;:[]},&quot;element_pack_global_tooltip_padding&quot;:{&quot;unit&quot;:&quot;px&quot;,&quot;top&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;right&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;bottom&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;left&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;isLinked&quot;:true},&quot;element_pack_global_tooltip_padding_tablet&quot;:{&quot;unit&quot;:&quot;px&quot;,&quot;top&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;right&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;bottom&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;left&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;isLinked&quot;:true},&quot;element_pack_global_tooltip_padding_mobile&quot;:{&quot;unit&quot;:&quot;px&quot;,&quot;top&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;right&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;bottom&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;left&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;isLinked&quot;:true},&quot;element_pack_global_tooltip_border_radius&quot;:{&quot;unit&quot;:&quot;px&quot;,&quot;top&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;right&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;bottom&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;left&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;isLinked&quot;:true},&quot;element_pack_global_tooltip_border_radius_tablet&quot;:{&quot;unit&quot;:&quot;px&quot;,&quot;top&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;right&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;bottom&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;left&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;isLinked&quot;:true},&quot;element_pack_global_tooltip_border_radius_mobile&quot;:{&quot;unit&quot;:&quot;px&quot;,&quot;top&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;right&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;bottom&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;left&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;isLinked&quot;:true}}\" data-elementor-post-type=\"post\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-6d23635 e-flex e-con-boxed e-con e-parent\" data-id=\"6d23635\" data-element_type=\"container\" data-e-type=\"container\">\n\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"e-con-inner\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-aa27fcb elementor-widget elementor-widget-text-editor\" data-id=\"aa27fcb\" data-element_type=\"widget\" data-e-type=\"widget\" data-widget_type=\"text-editor.default\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-widget-container\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<p><span data-contrast=\"auto\">Accounting firms operating in the United States or providing services to US clients face increasingly stringent anti-money laundering obligations. These requirements stem from a comprehensive regulatory framework that has expanded significantly over the past two decades, particularly following the implementation of enhanced due diligence measures and beneficial ownership reporting requirements. For accounting firms, AML compliance is no longer a peripheral concern but a core operational requirement that directly affects firm liability, client relationships and regulatory standing.<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;201341983&quot;:0,&quot;335551550&quot;:6,&quot;335551620&quot;:6,&quot;335559740&quot;:276}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p><p><span data-contrast=\"auto\">This article examines the key AML obligations applicable to accounting firms in the United States, with particular focus on the Bank Secrecy Act framework, FinCEN guidance and US-specific compliance requirements. It explores how these obligations apply to accounting firms and identifies the practical steps necessary to establish and maintain a compliant programme.<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;201341983&quot;:0,&quot;335551550&quot;:6,&quot;335551620&quot;:6,&quot;335559740&quot;:276}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-fd8d007 elementor-widget elementor-widget-heading\" data-id=\"fd8d007\" data-element_type=\"widget\" data-e-type=\"widget\" data-widget_type=\"heading.default\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-widget-container\">\n\t\t\t\t\t<h2 class=\"elementor-heading-title elementor-size-default\">The Bank Secrecy Act: The Foundation of US AML Law <\/h2>\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-1c08fa9 elementor-widget elementor-widget-text-editor\" data-id=\"1c08fa9\" data-element_type=\"widget\" data-e-type=\"widget\" data-widget_type=\"text-editor.default\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-widget-container\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<p><span data-contrast=\"auto\">The Bank Secrecy Act, codified at 31 USC Chapter 53 (31 USC 5311 et seq), enacted in 1970, remains the primary federal statute governing money laundering prevention in the United States. Although originally designed to regulate financial institutions, the BSA&#8217;s requirements have been extended to various non-bank financial businesses, including accounting firms that engage in certain financial activities.<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;201341983&quot;:0,&quot;335551550&quot;:6,&quot;335551620&quot;:6,&quot;335559740&quot;:276}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p><p><span data-contrast=\"auto\">Under the BSA, accounting firms are considered money services businesses if they engage in specified financial activities. The threshold determination is critical, as it determines whether full AML compliance obligations apply. Firms that accept currency exchange services, provide cheque cashing services, or process money transfers may fall within this definition. However, many accounting firms argue that they do not meet the MSB definition if their primary function is tax preparation and traditional accounting services. This position requires careful analysis and documentation, as FinCEN has clarified that the characterisation depends on the actual services provided rather than how the firm describes itself.<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;201341983&quot;:0,&quot;335551550&quot;:6,&quot;335551620&quot;:6,&quot;335559740&quot;:276}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p><p><span data-contrast=\"auto\">The BSA imposes four principal obligations on covered financial businesses. First, firms must establish an AML compliance programme with a designated compliance officer. Second, they must maintain records of all transactions involving currency and maintain other relevant documentation. Third, they must report certain suspicious activities to FinCEN through suspicious activity reports. Fourth, they must report large currency transactions through currency transaction reports. For accounting firms, these obligations create significant operational and administrative requirements.<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;201341983&quot;:0,&quot;335551550&quot;:6,&quot;335551620&quot;:6,&quot;335559740&quot;:276}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-699a0d1 elementor-widget elementor-widget-heading\" data-id=\"699a0d1\" data-element_type=\"widget\" data-e-type=\"widget\" data-widget_type=\"heading.default\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-widget-container\">\n\t\t\t\t\t<h2 class=\"elementor-heading-title elementor-size-default\">FinCEN's Regulatory Framework <\/h2>\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-c2f5336 elementor-widget elementor-widget-text-editor\" data-id=\"c2f5336\" data-element_type=\"widget\" data-e-type=\"widget\" data-widget_type=\"text-editor.default\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-widget-container\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<p><span data-contrast=\"auto\">The Financial Crimes Enforcement Network, a bureau of the US Department of the Treasury, administers the BSA and develops AML policy for the United States. FinCEN issues regulations codified at 31 CFR Chapter X, guidance and rules of particular importance to non-bank financial businesses. Understanding FinCEN&#8217;s current direction and expectations is essential for any accounting firm seeking to maintain compliance.<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;201341983&quot;:0,&quot;335551550&quot;:6,&quot;335551620&quot;:6,&quot;335559740&quot;:276}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p><p><span data-contrast=\"auto\">FinCEN has progressively expanded the scope of AML obligations for certain professional service providers. A critical Final Rule by FinCEN addressed the application of AML requirements to accountants. The rule established that accountants may be covered financial institutions if they provide financial agency services. Financial agency services include accepting deposits, transferring money or facilitating the transfer of money or currency, as defined in 31 CFR 1010.100. The rule clarified that traditional accounting services such as bookkeeping, tax preparation and financial statement preparation do not constitute financial agency services and do not trigger AML obligations.<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;201341983&quot;:0,&quot;335551550&quot;:6,&quot;335551620&quot;:6,&quot;335559740&quot;:276}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p><p><span data-contrast=\"auto\">However, FinCEN&#8217;s guidance also recognised that some accounting firms do provide services that fall within the definition of financial agency services. If an accounting firm accepts client funds in an escrow account, maintains trust accounts, or processes payments on behalf of clients, the firm may be engaged in financial agency services and therefore subject to AML requirements under 31 CFR Chapter X. The determining factor is whether the accounting firm is accepting or holding client funds in a capacity that could facilitate money laundering.<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;201341983&quot;:0,&quot;335551550&quot;:6,&quot;335551620&quot;:6,&quot;335559740&quot;:276}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p><p><span data-contrast=\"auto\">More recently, FinCEN has focused increasing attention on beneficial ownership transparency. The Corporate Transparency Act, codified at 31 USC 5336 and implemented through FinCEN&#8217;s regulations at 31 CFR 1010.380, imposed obligations on certain entities to report information to FinCEN about their beneficial owners. However, on 26 March 2025, FinCEN issued an interim final rule significantly revising the scope of these requirements. The revised regulations now exempt all entities created under US law from beneficial ownership reporting obligations. The beneficial ownership reporting requirement now applies only to entities formed under the law of a foreign country that have registered to do business in any US State or tribal jurisdiction. Whilst this change affects direct reporting obligations for most accounting firms&#8217; clients, many accounting firms still face advisory obligations in assisting clients with proper understanding of their obligations and in ensuring they do not inadvertently facilitate non-compliance.<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;201341983&quot;:0,&quot;335551550&quot;:6,&quot;335551620&quot;:6,&quot;335559740&quot;:276}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-d8fa4ae elementor-widget elementor-widget-heading\" data-id=\"d8fa4ae\" data-element_type=\"widget\" data-e-type=\"widget\" data-widget_type=\"heading.default\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-widget-container\">\n\t\t\t\t\t<h2 class=\"elementor-heading-title elementor-size-default\">The Beneficial Ownership Regime <\/h2>\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-76500cd elementor-widget elementor-widget-text-editor\" data-id=\"76500cd\" data-element_type=\"widget\" data-e-type=\"widget\" data-widget_type=\"text-editor.default\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-widget-container\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<p><span data-contrast=\"auto\">The beneficial ownership information reporting requirements represent a significant expansion of US AML policy. Effective 1 January 2024, FinCEN requires most business entities to report information about individuals who ultimately own or control the company. This requirement applies to corporations, limited liability companies, partnerships and other eligible entities formed or registered in the United States.<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;201341983&quot;:0,&quot;335551550&quot;:6,&quot;335551620&quot;:6,&quot;335559740&quot;:276}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p><p><span data-contrast=\"auto\">For accounting firms, the beneficial ownership rule creates both compliance and advisory challenges. Firms must ensure that they understand the scope of reporting obligations that apply to their clients. More importantly, many accounting firms now risk secondary liability exposure if they assist clients in evading these reporting requirements or if they facilitate the creation of shell companies designed to obscure beneficial ownership.<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;201341983&quot;:0,&quot;335551550&quot;:6,&quot;335551620&quot;:6,&quot;335559740&quot;:276}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p><p><span data-contrast=\"auto\">The beneficial ownership rule defines a beneficial owner as an individual who, directly or indirectly, owns 25 percentage or more of the ownership interests of a reporting company or exercises substantial control over the company. The rule also captures those who instruct the formation or major decisions of a company even without direct ownership. This broad definition requires careful analysis when advising clients about corporate structuring and beneficial ownership reporting obligations.<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;201341983&quot;:0,&quot;335551550&quot;:6,&quot;335551620&quot;:6,&quot;335559740&quot;:276}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-86a2545 elementor-widget elementor-widget-heading\" data-id=\"86a2545\" data-element_type=\"widget\" data-e-type=\"widget\" data-widget_type=\"heading.default\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-widget-container\">\n\t\t\t\t\t<h2 class=\"elementor-heading-title elementor-size-default\">Specific AML Obligations for Accounting Firms <\/h2>\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-7ccb231 elementor-widget elementor-widget-text-editor\" data-id=\"7ccb231\" data-element_type=\"widget\" data-e-type=\"widget\" data-widget_type=\"text-editor.default\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-widget-container\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<p><span class=\"TextRun SCXW25925289 BCX8\" lang=\"EN-GB\" xml:lang=\"EN-GB\" data-contrast=\"auto\"><span class=\"NormalTextRun SCXW25925289 BCX8\">For accounting firms that are determined to be covered financial institutions under the BSA, a comprehensive compliance programme is mandatory. The programme must include several core elements, regardless of firm size or specific services provided.<\/span><\/span><span class=\"EOP SCXW25925289 BCX8\" data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;201341983&quot;:0,&quot;335551550&quot;:6,&quot;335551620&quot;:6,&quot;335559740&quot;:276}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-f714301 elementor-widget elementor-widget-heading\" data-id=\"f714301\" data-element_type=\"widget\" data-e-type=\"widget\" data-widget_type=\"heading.default\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-widget-container\">\n\t\t\t\t\t<h3 class=\"elementor-heading-title elementor-size-default\">Customer Due Diligence Requirements <\/h3>\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-51048f0 elementor-widget elementor-widget-text-editor\" data-id=\"51048f0\" data-element_type=\"widget\" data-e-type=\"widget\" data-widget_type=\"text-editor.default\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-widget-container\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<p><span data-contrast=\"auto\">For firms determined to be covered financial institutions under the BSA, customer due diligence represents the foundation of effective AML compliance. The Customer Due Diligence Rule, finalised by FinCEN in 2016 and codified at 31 CFR 1010.230, requires accounting firms to establish procedures to identify clients and verify their identity using reliable documentation. For individuals, this requires obtaining a government-issued identification document and confirming its authenticity. For business entities, firms must identify the entity, verify its legal existence and identify its beneficial owners or controllers.<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;201341983&quot;:0,&quot;335551550&quot;:6,&quot;335551620&quot;:6,&quot;335559740&quot;:276}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p><p><span data-contrast=\"auto\">The enhanced due diligence rules set forth in 31 CFR 1010.610 and 1010.620, which apply to high-risk clients or transactions, requiring firms to take additional steps to understand the nature and purpose of client relationships and to assess the risk of money laundering or sanctions violations. High-risk clients may include those with connections to jurisdictions with weak AML frameworks, individuals or entities subject to sanctions, or entities engaged in businesses known for higher money laundering risk such as real estate or cash-intensive operations.<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;201341983&quot;:0,&quot;335551550&quot;:6,&quot;335551620&quot;:6,&quot;335559740&quot;:276}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-c9f7b97 elementor-widget elementor-widget-heading\" data-id=\"c9f7b97\" data-element_type=\"widget\" data-e-type=\"widget\" data-widget_type=\"heading.default\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-widget-container\">\n\t\t\t\t\t<h3 class=\"elementor-heading-title elementor-size-default\">Suspicious Activity Reporting <\/h3>\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-3c6b2de elementor-widget elementor-widget-text-editor\" data-id=\"3c6b2de\" data-element_type=\"widget\" data-e-type=\"widget\" data-widget_type=\"text-editor.default\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-widget-container\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<p><span data-contrast=\"auto\">Covered firms must establish procedures to identify and report suspicious activities to FinCEN<\/span> <span data-contrast=\"auto\">under 31 USC 5318(g) and related regulations at 31 CFR 1010.320. A suspicious activity report must be filed if a firm detects a transaction that involves or aggregates to at least five thousand dollars and that the firm knows, suspects or has reason to suspect involves money laundering or violates the Bank Secrecy Act. The report must be filed within 30 days of identifying the suspicious activity.<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;201341983&quot;:0,&quot;335551550&quot;:6,&quot;335551620&quot;:6,&quot;335559740&quot;:276}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p><p><span data-contrast=\"auto\">For accounting firms, identifying suspicious activities requires understanding the factual circumstances and having established protocols for staff to recognise red flags. Common red flags in the accounting context include clients requesting unusual or aggressive cash transactions, requests to obscure the nature of payments or the parties involved in transactions, or inconsistencies between stated business activities and actual financial flows. The firm must maintain internal procedures for analysing transactions and determining whether reporting is required. Record keeping obligations are set forth in 31 CFR 1010.430, which requires that supporting documentation for SARs be maintained for 5 years from the date of filing.<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;201341983&quot;:0,&quot;335551550&quot;:6,&quot;335551620&quot;:6,&quot;335559740&quot;:276}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-1dd9302 elementor-widget elementor-widget-heading\" data-id=\"1dd9302\" data-element_type=\"widget\" data-e-type=\"widget\" data-widget_type=\"heading.default\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-widget-container\">\n\t\t\t\t\t<h3 class=\"elementor-heading-title elementor-size-default\">Currency Transaction Reporting <\/h3>\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-2de39a1 elementor-widget elementor-widget-text-editor\" data-id=\"2de39a1\" data-element_type=\"widget\" data-e-type=\"widget\" data-widget_type=\"text-editor.default\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-widget-container\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<p><span class=\"TextRun SCXW237467044 BCX8\" lang=\"EN-GB\" xml:lang=\"EN-GB\" data-contrast=\"auto\"><span class=\"NormalTextRun SCXW237467044 BCX8\">If a covered accounting firm engages in transactions involving currency of ten thousand dollars or more, it must file a currency transaction report with FinCEN<\/span> <span class=\"NormalTextRun SCXW237467044 BCX8\">under 31 USC 5313 and 31 CFR 1010.410<\/span><span class=\"NormalTextRun SCXW237467044 BCX8\">. The report must be filed within <\/span><span class=\"NormalTextRun SCXW237467044 BCX8\">15<\/span><span class=\"NormalTextRun SCXW237467044 BCX8\"> days of the transaction and must <\/span><span class=\"NormalTextRun SCXW237467044 BCX8\">identify<\/span><span class=\"NormalTextRun SCXW237467044 BCX8\"> the customer, describe the <\/span><span class=\"NormalTextRun SCXW237467044 BCX8\">transaction<\/span><span class=\"NormalTextRun SCXW237467044 BCX8\"> and <\/span><span class=\"NormalTextRun SCXW237467044 BCX8\">indicate<\/span><span class=\"NormalTextRun SCXW237467044 BCX8\"> whether the transaction is suspicious. However, many accounting firms can avoid this obligation by not engaging in currency transactions directly.<\/span><\/span><span class=\"EOP SCXW237467044 BCX8\" data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;201341983&quot;:0,&quot;335551550&quot;:6,&quot;335551620&quot;:6,&quot;335559740&quot;:276}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-d301701 elementor-widget elementor-widget-heading\" data-id=\"d301701\" data-element_type=\"widget\" data-e-type=\"widget\" data-widget_type=\"heading.default\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-widget-container\">\n\t\t\t\t\t<h3 class=\"elementor-heading-title elementor-size-default\">Compliance Officer and Programme Administration <\/h3>\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-b4dee94 elementor-widget elementor-widget-text-editor\" data-id=\"b4dee94\" data-element_type=\"widget\" data-e-type=\"widget\" data-widget_type=\"text-editor.default\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-widget-container\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<p><span data-contrast=\"auto\">Accounting firms subject to BSA requirements must designate a compliance officer responsible for developing and implementing the firm&#8217;s AML compliance programme under 31 USC 5318 and related CFR provisions including 31 CFR 1010.210 and 1020.210. The compliance officer must be accountable for monitoring compliance, training personnel and maintaining necessary records. The firm must also document the compliance programme in writing and review it periodically to ensure effectiveness.<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;201341983&quot;:0,&quot;335551550&quot;:6,&quot;335551620&quot;:6,&quot;335559740&quot;:276}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p><p><span data-contrast=\"auto\">The compliance programme must address the firm&#8217;s specific business activities and risk profile. A firm that provides only tax preparation services and does not handle client funds will have a simpler programme than a firm that maintains trust accounts or processes client payments. However, all programmes must include customer identification and verification procedures as outlined in 31 CFR 1010.210(a)(2), suspicious activity monitoring and reporting, record keeping requirements under 31 CFR 1010.410 et seq, and regular staff training on AML obligations.<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;201341983&quot;:0,&quot;335551550&quot;:6,&quot;335551620&quot;:6,&quot;335559740&quot;:276}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-0f6613b elementor-widget elementor-widget-heading\" data-id=\"0f6613b\" data-element_type=\"widget\" data-e-type=\"widget\" data-widget_type=\"heading.default\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-widget-container\">\n\t\t\t\t\t<h3 class=\"elementor-heading-title elementor-size-default\">Record Keeping and Retention <\/h3>\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-994c331 elementor-widget elementor-widget-text-editor\" data-id=\"994c331\" data-element_type=\"widget\" data-e-type=\"widget\" data-widget_type=\"text-editor.default\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-widget-container\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<p><span class=\"TextRun SCXW100714684 BCX8\" lang=\"EN-GB\" xml:lang=\"EN-GB\" data-contrast=\"auto\"><span class=\"NormalTextRun SCXW100714684 BCX8\">Accounting firms must <\/span><span class=\"NormalTextRun SCXW100714684 BCX8\">maintain<\/span><span class=\"NormalTextRun SCXW100714684 BCX8\"> records sufficient to reconstruct financial transactions and to <\/span><span class=\"NormalTextRun SCXW100714684 BCX8\">demonstrate<\/span><span class=\"NormalTextRun SCXW100714684 BCX8\"> compliance with BSA obligations. These records typically include client information, transaction details and communications relating to suspicious activities. Records must <\/span><span class=\"NormalTextRun SCXW100714684 BCX8\">generally be<\/span> <span class=\"NormalTextRun SCXW100714684 BCX8\">retained<\/span><span class=\"NormalTextRun SCXW100714684 BCX8\"> for at least <\/span><span class=\"NormalTextRun SCXW100714684 BCX8\">5<\/span><span class=\"NormalTextRun SCXW100714684 BCX8\"> years<\/span><span class=\"NormalTextRun SCXW100714684 BCX8\"> as specified in <\/span><span class=\"NormalTextRun SCXW100714684 BCX8\">31 CFR 1010.430<\/span><span class=\"NormalTextRun SCXW100714684 BCX8\"> though specific<\/span><span class=\"NormalTextRun SCXW100714684 BCX8\"> retention periods may vary depending on the nature of the record.<\/span><\/span><span class=\"EOP SCXW100714684 BCX8\" data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;201341983&quot;:0,&quot;335551550&quot;:6,&quot;335551620&quot;:6,&quot;335559740&quot;:276}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-8625f8b elementor-widget elementor-widget-heading\" data-id=\"8625f8b\" data-element_type=\"widget\" data-e-type=\"widget\" data-widget_type=\"heading.default\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-widget-container\">\n\t\t\t\t\t<h2 class=\"elementor-heading-title elementor-size-default\">Practical Compliance Considerations <\/h2>\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-574a166 elementor-widget elementor-widget-heading\" data-id=\"574a166\" data-element_type=\"widget\" data-e-type=\"widget\" data-widget_type=\"heading.default\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-widget-container\">\n\t\t\t\t\t<h3 class=\"elementor-heading-title elementor-size-default\">Assessing Whether AML Obligations Apply <\/h3>\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-9d24e86 elementor-widget elementor-widget-text-editor\" data-id=\"9d24e86\" data-element_type=\"widget\" data-e-type=\"widget\" data-widget_type=\"text-editor.default\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-widget-container\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<p><span class=\"TextRun SCXW176438542 BCX8\" lang=\"EN-GB\" xml:lang=\"EN-GB\" data-contrast=\"auto\"><span class=\"NormalTextRun SCXW176438542 BCX8\">The first practical step for any accounting firm is to <\/span><span class=\"NormalTextRun SCXW176438542 BCX8\">determine<\/span><span class=\"NormalTextRun SCXW176438542 BCX8\"> whether it is a covered financial institution. This analysis requires careful examination of the services <\/span><span class=\"NormalTextRun SCXW176438542 BCX8\">provided<\/span><span class=\"NormalTextRun SCXW176438542 BCX8\">. A firm should document its findings and <\/span><span class=\"NormalTextRun SCXW176438542 BCX8\">maintain<\/span><span class=\"NormalTextRun SCXW176438542 BCX8\"> evidence supporting its determination. <\/span><span class=\"NormalTextRun SCXW176438542 BCX8\">The analysis should address whether the firm provides financial agency services as defined in 31 CFR 1010.100. If the firm <\/span><span class=\"NormalTextRun SCXW176438542 BCX8\">operates<\/span><span class=\"NormalTextRun SCXW176438542 BCX8\"> in multiple <\/span><span class=\"NormalTextRun SCXW176438542 BCX8\">jurisdictions<\/span><span class=\"NormalTextRun SCXW176438542 BCX8\"> or offers diverse services, this analysis may be complex and may justify specialist advice.<\/span><\/span><span class=\"EOP SCXW176438542 BCX8\" data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;201341983&quot;:0,&quot;335551550&quot;:6,&quot;335551620&quot;:6,&quot;335559740&quot;:276}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-520e126 elementor-widget elementor-widget-heading\" data-id=\"520e126\" data-element_type=\"widget\" data-e-type=\"widget\" data-widget_type=\"heading.default\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-widget-container\">\n\t\t\t\t\t<h3 class=\"elementor-heading-title elementor-size-default\">Red Flag Identification <\/h3>\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-94e68ad elementor-widget elementor-widget-text-editor\" data-id=\"94e68ad\" data-element_type=\"widget\" data-e-type=\"widget\" data-widget_type=\"text-editor.default\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-widget-container\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<p><span class=\"TextRun SCXW43324203 BCX8\" lang=\"EN-GB\" xml:lang=\"EN-GB\" data-contrast=\"auto\"><span class=\"NormalTextRun SCXW43324203 BCX8\">Accounting firms should develop written policies <\/span><span class=\"NormalTextRun SCXW43324203 BCX8\">identifying<\/span><span class=\"NormalTextRun SCXW43324203 BCX8\"> common red flags. These policies should be tailored to the firm&#8217;s specific activities and client base. For a firm providing bookkeeping services, red flags might include cash deposits inconsistent with reported business activities or unusual wire transfers to high-risk <\/span><span class=\"NormalTextRun SCXW43324203 BCX8\">jurisdictions<\/span><span class=\"NormalTextRun SCXW43324203 BCX8\">. For a firm processing payroll, red flags might include requests to pay certain employees in cash or to round payroll payments upward without clear explanation.<\/span><\/span> <span class=\"TextRun SCXW43324203 BCX8\" lang=\"EN-GB\" xml:lang=\"EN-GB\" data-contrast=\"auto\"><span class=\"NormalTextRun SCXW43324203 BCX8\">The policies should ensure compliance with 31 USC 5324, which criminalises structuring transactions to evade reporting requirements.<\/span><\/span><span class=\"EOP SCXW43324203 BCX8\" data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;201341983&quot;:0,&quot;335551550&quot;:6,&quot;335551620&quot;:6,&quot;335559740&quot;:276}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-c78d457 elementor-widget elementor-widget-heading\" data-id=\"c78d457\" data-element_type=\"widget\" data-e-type=\"widget\" data-widget_type=\"heading.default\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-widget-container\">\n\t\t\t\t\t<h3 class=\"elementor-heading-title elementor-size-default\">Client Onboarding and Due Diligence <\/h3>\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-a52968f elementor-widget elementor-widget-text-editor\" data-id=\"a52968f\" data-element_type=\"widget\" data-e-type=\"widget\" data-widget_type=\"text-editor.default\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-widget-container\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<p><span class=\"TextRun SCXW108389188 BCX8\" lang=\"EN-GB\" xml:lang=\"EN-GB\" data-contrast=\"auto\"><span class=\"NormalTextRun SCXW108389188 BCX8\">Firms should implement standardised procedures for client onboarding that include identity verification and basic risk assessment<\/span> <span class=\"NormalTextRun SCXW108389188 BCX8\">in accordance with<\/span><span class=\"NormalTextRun SCXW108389188 BCX8\"> 31 CFR <\/span><span class=\"NormalTextRun SCXW108389188 BCX8\">1010.230<\/span><span class=\"NormalTextRun SCXW108389188 BCX8\">.<\/span><span class=\"NormalTextRun SCXW108389188 BCX8\"> The procedure should be documented and followed consistently. For business clients, the firm should gather information about the client&#8217;s business activities, ownership <\/span><span class=\"NormalTextRun SCXW108389188 BCX8\">structure<\/span><span class=\"NormalTextRun SCXW108389188 BCX8\"> and <\/span><span class=\"NormalTextRun SCXW108389188 BCX8\">anticipated<\/span><span class=\"NormalTextRun SCXW108389188 BCX8\"> transaction patterns. This information informs the risk assessment and <\/span><span class=\"NormalTextRun SCXW108389188 BCX8\">determines<\/span><span class=\"NormalTextRun SCXW108389188 BCX8\"> whether enhanced due diligence <\/span><span class=\"NormalTextRun SCXW108389188 BCX8\">31 CFR 1010.610 is <\/span><span class=\"NormalTextRun SCXW108389188 BCX8\">required<\/span><span class=\"NormalTextRun SCXW108389188 BCX8\">.<\/span><\/span><span class=\"EOP SCXW108389188 BCX8\" data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;201341983&quot;:0,&quot;335551550&quot;:6,&quot;335551620&quot;:6,&quot;335559740&quot;:276}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-572fa09 elementor-widget elementor-widget-heading\" data-id=\"572fa09\" data-element_type=\"widget\" data-e-type=\"widget\" data-widget_type=\"heading.default\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-widget-container\">\n\t\t\t\t\t<h3 class=\"elementor-heading-title elementor-size-default\">Staff Training <\/h3>\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-60dd137 elementor-widget elementor-widget-text-editor\" data-id=\"60dd137\" data-element_type=\"widget\" data-e-type=\"widget\" data-widget_type=\"text-editor.default\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-widget-container\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<p><span class=\"TextRun SCXW137437211 BCX8\" lang=\"EN-GB\" xml:lang=\"EN-GB\" data-contrast=\"auto\"><span class=\"NormalTextRun SCXW137437211 BCX8\">All firm personnel involved in client service, financial transactions or AML compliance should receive regular training on the firm&#8217;s compliance policies and on AML legal obligations under 31 USC 5318 and related regulations. Training should address red flag identification, suspicious activity reporting procedures and record keeping requirements. Documentation of training completion should be <\/span><span class=\"NormalTextRun SCXW137437211 BCX8\">maintained<\/span><span class=\"NormalTextRun SCXW137437211 BCX8\"> as part of the compliance programme.<\/span><\/span><span class=\"EOP SCXW137437211 BCX8\" data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;201341983&quot;:0,&quot;335551550&quot;:6,&quot;335551620&quot;:6,&quot;335559740&quot;:276}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-0d86c9a elementor-widget elementor-widget-heading\" data-id=\"0d86c9a\" data-element_type=\"widget\" data-e-type=\"widget\" data-widget_type=\"heading.default\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-widget-container\">\n\t\t\t\t\t<h3 class=\"elementor-heading-title elementor-size-default\">Monitoring and Testing <\/h3>\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-45f4cc6 elementor-widget elementor-widget-text-editor\" data-id=\"45f4cc6\" data-element_type=\"widget\" data-e-type=\"widget\" data-widget_type=\"text-editor.default\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-widget-container\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<p><span class=\"TextRun SCXW145885574 BCX8\" lang=\"EN-GB\" xml:lang=\"EN-GB\" data-contrast=\"auto\"><span class=\"NormalTextRun SCXW145885574 BCX8\">The compliance programme should include procedures for monitoring client activity for potential suspicious patterns<\/span> <span class=\"NormalTextRun SCXW145885574 BCX8\">as required under 31 CFR 1010.210(a)(5)<\/span><span class=\"NormalTextRun SCXW145885574 BCX8\">. For many accounting firms, this monitoring occurs during routine service delivery as accountants review client financial records and transactions. However, firms should <\/span><span class=\"NormalTextRun SCXW145885574 BCX8\">establish<\/span><span class=\"NormalTextRun SCXW145885574 BCX8\"> explicit procedures requiring staff to document and report <\/span><span class=\"NormalTextRun SCXW145885574 BCX8\">identified<\/span><span class=\"NormalTextRun SCXW145885574 BCX8\"> concerns. Periodic testing of the compliance programme, such as through file reviews or scenario analysis, helps <\/span><span class=\"NormalTextRun SCXW145885574 BCX8\">identify<\/span><span class=\"NormalTextRun SCXW145885574 BCX8\"> gaps in implementation.<\/span><\/span><span class=\"EOP SCXW145885574 BCX8\" data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;201341983&quot;:0,&quot;335551550&quot;:6,&quot;335551620&quot;:6,&quot;335559740&quot;:276}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-62b9aa9 elementor-widget elementor-widget-heading\" data-id=\"62b9aa9\" data-element_type=\"widget\" data-e-type=\"widget\" data-widget_type=\"heading.default\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-widget-container\">\n\t\t\t\t\t<h3 class=\"elementor-heading-title elementor-size-default\">Avoiding Secondary Liability <\/h3>\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-e222970 elementor-widget elementor-widget-text-editor\" data-id=\"e222970\" data-element_type=\"widget\" data-e-type=\"widget\" data-widget_type=\"text-editor.default\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-widget-container\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<p><span class=\"TextRun SCXW125621119 BCX8\" lang=\"EN-GB\" xml:lang=\"EN-GB\" data-contrast=\"auto\"><span class=\"NormalTextRun SCXW125621119 BCX8\">Accounting firms face <\/span><span class=\"NormalTextRun SCXW125621119 BCX8\">risks<\/span><span class=\"NormalTextRun SCXW125621119 BCX8\"> if they knowingly <\/span><span class=\"NormalTextRun SCXW125621119 BCX8\">assist<\/span><span class=\"NormalTextRun SCXW125621119 BCX8\"> clients in evading AML obligations. Under 31 USC 5318, firms should ensure that they <\/span><span class=\"NormalTextRun SCXW125621119 BCX8\">advise<\/span><span class=\"NormalTextRun SCXW125621119 BCX8\"> clients of their obligations and decline to <\/span><span class=\"NormalTextRun SCXW125621119 BCX8\">assist<\/span><span class=\"NormalTextRun SCXW125621119 BCX8\"> in evasive schemes. The prohibition on structuring at 31 USC 5324 applies to conduct undertaken with <\/span><span class=\"NormalTextRun SCXW125621119 BCX8\">knowledge that the purpose is to evade reporting requirements, and accounting firms must be careful not to <\/span><span class=\"NormalTextRun SCXW125621119 BCX8\">facilitate<\/span><span class=\"NormalTextRun SCXW125621119 BCX8\"> such conduct.<\/span><\/span><span class=\"EOP SCXW125621119 BCX8\" data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;201341983&quot;:0,&quot;335551550&quot;:6,&quot;335551620&quot;:6,&quot;335559740&quot;:276}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-812b09e elementor-widget elementor-widget-heading\" data-id=\"812b09e\" data-element_type=\"widget\" data-e-type=\"widget\" data-widget_type=\"heading.default\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-widget-container\">\n\t\t\t\t\t<h3 class=\"elementor-heading-title elementor-size-default\">Interaction with International Clients <\/h3>\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-a884727 elementor-widget elementor-widget-text-editor\" data-id=\"a884727\" data-element_type=\"widget\" data-e-type=\"widget\" data-widget_type=\"text-editor.default\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-widget-container\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<p><span class=\"TextRun SCXW27420381 BCX8\" lang=\"EN-GB\" xml:lang=\"EN-GB\" data-contrast=\"auto\"><span class=\"NormalTextRun SCXW27420381 BCX8\">Accounting firms that serve international clients face <\/span><span class=\"NormalTextRun SCXW27420381 BCX8\">additional<\/span><span class=\"NormalTextRun SCXW27420381 BCX8\"> AML considerations. FinCEN maintains lists of <\/span><span class=\"NormalTextRun SCXW27420381 BCX8\">jurisdictions<\/span><span class=\"NormalTextRun SCXW27420381 BCX8\"> and individuals subject to sanctions. Firms should implement procedures to screen clients and transactions against these lists as part of their due diligence obligations under 31 CFR 1010.230. Clients with connections to high-risk <\/span><span class=\"NormalTextRun SCXW27420381 BCX8\">jurisdictions<\/span><span class=\"NormalTextRun SCXW27420381 BCX8\"> may require enhanced due diligence under 31 CFR 1010.610. Firms should <\/span><span class=\"NormalTextRun SCXW27420381 BCX8\">maintain<\/span><span class=\"NormalTextRun SCXW27420381 BCX8\"> awareness of changing sanctions regimes and update their procedures accordingly. The obligations relating to correspondent accounts for foreign financial institutions are set forth at 31 CFR 1010.610.<\/span><\/span><span class=\"EOP SCXW27420381 BCX8\" data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;201341983&quot;:0,&quot;335551550&quot;:6,&quot;335551620&quot;:6,&quot;335559740&quot;:276}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-1a35e88 elementor-widget elementor-widget-heading\" data-id=\"1a35e88\" data-element_type=\"widget\" data-e-type=\"widget\" data-widget_type=\"heading.default\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-widget-container\">\n\t\t\t\t\t<h3 class=\"elementor-heading-title elementor-size-default\">Recent Developments and Regulatory Trends <\/h3>\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-724c42d elementor-widget elementor-widget-text-editor\" data-id=\"724c42d\" data-element_type=\"widget\" data-e-type=\"widget\" data-widget_type=\"text-editor.default\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-widget-container\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<p><span class=\"TextRun SCXW180416907 BCX8\" lang=\"EN-GB\" xml:lang=\"EN-GB\" data-contrast=\"auto\"><span class=\"NormalTextRun SCXW180416907 BCX8\">FinCEN has signalled heightened focus on AML obligations for professional service providers. In recent years, FinCEN has issued guidance on specific risks and has continued to refine its regulatory approach. The March 2025 interim final rule amending 31 CFR 1010.380 <\/span><span class=\"NormalTextRun SCXW180416907 BCX8\">represents<\/span><span class=\"NormalTextRun SCXW180416907 BCX8\"> a significant shift in beneficial ownership reporting requirements, narrowing the scope of domestic reporting obligations while <\/span><span class=\"NormalTextRun SCXW180416907 BCX8\">maintaining<\/span><span class=\"NormalTextRun SCXW180416907 BCX8\"> requirements for foreign entities. Accounting firms should <\/span><span class=\"NormalTextRun SCXW180416907 BCX8\">anticipate<\/span><span class=\"NormalTextRun SCXW180416907 BCX8\"> that FinCEN may issue <\/span><span class=\"NormalTextRun SCXW180416907 BCX8\">additional<\/span><span class=\"NormalTextRun SCXW180416907 BCX8\"> guidance on the interaction between AML obligations and other regulatory requirements. Compliance programmes should be reviewed and updated regularly to reflect regulatory developments.<\/span><\/span><span class=\"EOP SCXW180416907 BCX8\" data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;201341983&quot;:0,&quot;335551550&quot;:6,&quot;335551620&quot;:6,&quot;335559740&quot;:276}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-7b4fa94 elementor-widget elementor-widget-heading\" data-id=\"7b4fa94\" data-element_type=\"widget\" data-e-type=\"widget\" data-widget_type=\"heading.default\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-widget-container\">\n\t\t\t\t\t<h2 class=\"elementor-heading-title elementor-size-default\">Conclusion <\/h2>\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-dee1a85 elementor-widget elementor-widget-text-editor\" data-id=\"dee1a85\" data-element_type=\"widget\" data-e-type=\"widget\" data-widget_type=\"text-editor.default\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-widget-container\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<p><span data-contrast=\"auto\">AML compliance obligations for accounting firms in the United States rest on a complex foundation of BSA requirements, FinCEN regulations and guidance, and beneficial ownership reporting rules. The extent of an accounting firm&#8217;s obligations depends on the services it provides and whether it qualifies as a covered financial institution. However, all accounting firms should be aware of their potential obligations and should implement appropriate risk management procedures.<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;201341983&quot;:0,&quot;335551550&quot;:6,&quot;335551620&quot;:6,&quot;335559740&quot;:276}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p><p><span data-contrast=\"auto\">For firms that are covered financial institutions, establishing a comprehensive AML compliance programme is essential. This programme must include documented procedures for customer due diligence, suspicious activity identification and reporting, record maintenance and staff training. The compliance programme should be proportionate to the firm&#8217;s business activities and risk profile but must be documented and implemented consistently.<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;201341983&quot;:0,&quot;335551550&quot;:6,&quot;335551620&quot;:6,&quot;335559740&quot;:276}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p><p><span data-contrast=\"auto\">Given the complexity of US AML law and the significant consequences of non-compliance, accounting firms are well advised to undertake a careful legal analysis of their specific obligations. Firms offering services that could potentially trigger AML requirements should document their analysis and seek specialist advice where appropriate. Regular review of the compliance programme and awareness of regulatory developments will help ensure that the firm maintains effective AML compliance over time.<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;201341983&quot;:0,&quot;335551550&quot;:6,&quot;335551620&quot;:6,&quot;335559740&quot;:276}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p><p><span data-contrast=\"auto\">The regulatory environment for AML compliance continues to evolve. Professional accounting firms should remain informed of developments in FinCEN guidance and should participate in professional organisations that track regulatory changes. By implementing effective compliance procedures and maintaining awareness of regulatory requirements, accounting firms can manage AML risks whilst serving their clients effectively.<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;201341983&quot;:0,&quot;335551550&quot;:6,&quot;335551620&quot;:6,&quot;335559740&quot;:276}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>Accounting firms in the US face complex AML obligations under the Bank Secrecy Act, but whether full compliance requirements apply depends critically on the specific services provided.<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":37,"featured_media":32856,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"_acf_changed":false,"footnotes":""},"categories":[6],"tags":[],"class_list":["post-32844","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-blog"],"acf":[],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/figsflow.com\/us\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/32844","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/figsflow.com\/us\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/figsflow.com\/us\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/figsflow.com\/us\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/37"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/figsflow.com\/us\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=32844"}],"version-history":[{"count":15,"href":"https:\/\/figsflow.com\/us\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/32844\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":32879,"href":"https:\/\/figsflow.com\/us\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/32844\/revisions\/32879"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/figsflow.com\/us\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/32856"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/figsflow.com\/us\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=32844"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/figsflow.com\/us\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=32844"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/figsflow.com\/us\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=32844"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}