SmartSearch has announced a strategic partnership with Plannr in a move set to simplify anti-money laundering (AML) compliance for IFA firms across the UK.

The collaboration brings together SmartSearch’s electronic identity verification and monitoring technology with Plannr’s back-office and CRM platform, enabling users to conduct AML checks and client onboarding directly within their existing workflows.

The integration is designed to eliminate friction in compliance processes while improving accuracy and reducing regulatory risk.

Kerry Cleary, partnership director at SmartSearch, said: “We’re delighted to be partnering with Plannr to bring a new level of automation and simplicity to AML compliance in the financial planning space.

“This collaboration allows firms using Plannr to streamline their compliance obligations, reduce risk, and remain confidently aligned with regulatory standards — all from within one integrated platform.”

The integration will provide Plannr users with access to SmartSearch’s triple bureau identity verification system, which draws on data from Equifax, Experian and TransUnion.

“By aggregating information from all three major credit reference agencies, SmartSearch’s platform offers a more robust check than those relying on a single source.

“According to SmartSearch, the result is a pass rate of up to 97%, with KYC checks completed in as little as two seconds.

The automation of AML and identity checks directly from within the Plannr interface is intended to significantly accelerate client onboarding while ensuring ongoing compliance.

“The system also provides real-time data verification and continuous monitoring to support firms in meeting their regulatory obligations efficiently.

Gareth Thompson, chief technical architect at Plannr, said: “This integration has been highly anticipated, and we’re delighted to have partnered so effectively with SmartSearch in pursuit of our quest to bring expert advice tools under one roof.

“By enabling seamless data sharing across platforms and eliminating the need for re-keying, we’re significantly boosting adviser efficiency and reducing manual entry errors.

“Thanks to SmartSearch’s robust API and Plannr’s modern, open architecture, the tools now work in perfect harmony with one another, delivering a truly streamlined experience with everything advisers need in one place.”