SmartSearch alternatives
SmartSearch is an AML and client verification platform from Ilkley, West Yorkshire, covering individual and business checks, sanctions and PEP screening and ongoing monitoring. It has more than 7,500 UK customers and bought Credas in January 2026.
Teams comparing it usually look at Thirdfort and Amiqus for client identity and source of funds checks, at First AML for business and beneficial owner checks, and at Credas, now part of SmartSearch.
What SmartSearch does
AML and client verification platform for regulated firms: individual and business checks, beneficial owner checks, sanctions and PEP screening, ongoing monitoring and document verification.
- Based
- Ilkley, West Yorkshire, UK
- Customers
- 7,500+ UK customers; 8,500+ regulated firms with Credas; over 50% of the UK's top 100 accountancy firms
- Ownership
- Backed by Triple Private Equity since early 2025; acquired Credas Technologies in January 2026
- Coverage
- UK checks via Equifax, Experian and TransUnion; individuals in 40+ countries and business reports in 97+ countries
Alternatives in Practice Management
48 other vendors in this category. Vendors with an Accountio profile are shown first; the rest of the directory follows.
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Digital identity checks for regulated client onboarding.
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Credas profile →
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Ignition profile →
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Karbon profile →
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Silverfin profile →
All-in-one practice management for tax and accounting firms.
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TaxDome profile →
Billing and collections automation purpose-built for accounting firms.
Founded 2020 · HQ Charlotte, US
Aiwyn profile →
Engagement terms turned into automated billing and collection.
Founded 2019 · HQ New York, US
Anchor profile →
Automated tax return analysis and planning opportunity reports.
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Holistiplan profile →More practice management vendors in the directory
How to choose
- Where does work start in your firm: email, a client portal or a job list?
- Which tax and accounting software must it connect to, and which client communication should run through it?
- How is it priced: per user, per client or by module, and what do the add-ons cost?
- How will existing clients, jobs and documents move across, and who helps with that?
Compare further
Common questions
What are the main alternatives to SmartSearch?+
Thirdfort and Amiqus are the closest alternatives for client identity and source of funds checks, and First AML covers business and beneficial owner checks. Credas is now part of SmartSearch.
Does SmartSearch own Credas?+
Yes. SmartSearch completed the acquisition of Credas Technologies Ltd on 7 January 2026; the combined business serves more than 8,500 regulated firms.
How much does SmartSearch cost?+
SmartSearch does not publish prices. Pricing is modular, with no fixed rate card, and is grouped into Starter, Growth and Enterprise Compliance.
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