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Template · Client
AML Document Request Template (UK, Free)
Comply with Anti-Money Laundering regulations by requesting the necessary identity documents from new clients.
Built by a practising Chartered Accountant · Unlimited users · 60-day free trial · Last updated 23 September 2026
Quick answer
An onboarding AML documents request asks the client for government-issued photo identification and recent proof of address. This is a mandatory step in the 'Know Your Customer' (KYC) process, ensuring the firm complies with UK AML regulations before starting any work.
Who is this sent to, and when?
- Sent to
- Client
- When to send it
- Immediately during the onboarding process
What AML documents are required?
You must obtain valid proof of identity and proof of residency for all beneficial owners and officers.
To meet regulatory standards, you should request the following:
- Photo ID (e.g., valid Passport or Photocard Driving Licence)
- Proof of Address (e.g., utility bill or bank statement dated within the last 3 months)
- Verification of the source of funds/wealth (where relevant)
- Company structure charts for complex entities
Why do we need these documents?
It is a legal requirement under the Money Laundering Regulations to verify the identity of our clients.
We cannot perform any professional services until these checks are complete. Please note that Remindoo allows us to record and score these risks manually as part of our internal compliance.
Preview the template
Template only. Review with a solicitor or your professional body before use.
AML Document Request Template (UK, Free)
Subject: Action Required: Identity Verification for [Firm Name]
Dear [Client Name],
As part of our commitment to professional standards and to comply with UK Anti-Money Laundering (AML) regulations, we are required to verify the identity of all our clients.
Please provide the following documents for each director/partner and anyone holding more than 25% of the business:
1. **Proof of
Preview shows the opening and key sections. The full editable file is free to download below.
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Send this from Remindoo
Save it once in Remindoo and send it from there. Store the wording as an email template, then use tokens so client names, company numbers and dates fill in automatically. Send it to one client or to a filtered group with bulk client emails. For requests that repeat, pair it with automated reminders and a recurring task so it goes out every period without anyone remembering. For engagement letters and proposals, use proposals and letters of engagement with e-signatures.
Email templates
Standard client messages ready to send.
See featureTokens for emails and tasks
Merge client data into repeatable messages.
See featureClient onboarding automation
Standardise requests, checks and first services.
See featureAML risk scoring and digital ID checks
Risk assessments plus built-in digital KYC, AML and proof-of-address checks.
See featureClient portal and document sharing
Share requests and documents securely, not by email.
See featureWhat are the common mistakes?
- Accepting expired identification
- Using old utility bills (>3 months)
- Failing to verify the source of funds
- Starting work before AML checks are finished
- Not keeping clear records of the verification
“Managing deadlines and tasks is much easier.”
Frequently asked questions
Is this mandatory?
Yes, under the Money Laundering, Terrorist Financing and Transfer of Funds Regulations 2017.
What if the client has no passport?
A photocard driving licence is usually the best alternative.
Which bills are accepted for address?
Utility bills (gas, electric, water), council tax, or bank statements.
How long must records be kept?
Usually for 5 years after the business relationship ends.
Can I use electronic IDV?
Remindoo is used for manual recording and risk scoring; you may use external tools for electronic verification if required.
What about foreign clients?
Additional checks may be needed, such as notarised copies of documents.
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Sources
Last updated 23 September 2026. General guidance, not regulatory advice.
Why recording AML checks properly matters
UK accountants must follow the Money Laundering Regulations and their supervisor's guidance. If a check is not recorded, supervisors will generally treat it as not done.
Evidence for your supervisor
Dated ID checks and risk assessments on each client file are what a supervisor asks to see during a review.
Consistent risk scoring
A standard risk assessment means every client is judged the same way, whoever onboarded them.
Ongoing monitoring
Reminders for periodic reviews help keep checks current rather than done once and forgotten.
Faster onboarding
Built-in digital ID and AML checks in Remindoo reduce back-and-forth with new clients.
Practical tips from UK practice
- Complete identity checks and a risk assessment before starting chargeable work.
- Set review dates by risk level, with higher-risk clients reviewed more often.
- Record the reason for each risk rating, not just the rating.
- Check your supervisor's current guidance, as requirements can change.
Related Remindoo features
Written and reviewed by Waqas Sagar ACA FCCA FMAAT, Chartered Accountant with 18+ years in practice. Founder and MD of Accotax, an ICAEW, ACCA and AAT regulated London practice that has served over 5,000 clients, and founder of Remindoo. Guidance is general; check current GOV.UK and professional body guidance for your firm.
What UK practices say about Remindoo
Read all reviews on Trustpilot“With Remindoo, everything from the first enquiry to onboarding and ongoing client management is tracked in one place… It saves us hours and gives me, as a practice owner, complete visibility of where the firm stands.”
“The biggest benefit is having clients, tasks, deadlines, workflows, proposals and communication all organised in one place.”
“During my trial, the team were absolutely amazing. They helped onboard my clients, set up my settings and made sure everything was ready for me to use… they made the whole process completely stress-free.”
“It brings client information, tasks, recurring deadlines, workflows and reminders together in one place, giving us much better visibility across the team.”
