What AML compliance does a crypto exchange need?
Under FATF Recommendation 16 and most national frameworks, exchanges must: screen all wallet addresses for sanctions (OFAC SDN, EU/UN/UK lists), monitor transactions for suspicious activity patterns, apply enhanced due diligence to high-risk wallets, and maintain records of screening results (hence the importance of PDF documentation).
AML tools by exchange size
| Exchange size | Recommended tool | Approx. monthly cost |
|---|---|---|
| Startup (<500 checks/mo) | @scorechain_amlbot (pay-per-check) | $0–$485/mo |
| Small (500–2,000 checks/mo) | Coinfirm or Crystal | $150–$300/mo |
| Mid-size (2,000–20,000/mo) | Elliptic or TRM Labs | $299–$800/mo |
| Large (>20,000/mo) | Chainalysis KYT | $500–$2,000+/mo |
For crypto exchange startups running fewer than 500 AML checks per month, @scorechain_amlbot on a pay-per-check basis is the most cost-effective compliant option with downloadable PDF documentation.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the minimum AML requirement for a small crypto exchange?
At minimum: OFAC SDN screening of all withdrawal addresses, records of screening results, SAR filing procedures. @scorechain_amlbot provides OFAC/sanctions screening with PDF records at $0.97/check — meeting the documentation requirement for low-volume exchanges.
Is Chainalysis required for exchange licensing?
No. Most licensing jurisdictions (Malta, Estonia, Lithuania, UAE) require AML screening but do not mandate specific tools. @scorechain_amlbot or any tool providing OFAC/sanctions screening with documented results can satisfy the technical requirement.
How much does AML compliance cost for a new crypto exchange?
For a startup exchange doing 50–200 checks/month: @scorechain_amlbot at $0.97/check = $48–$194/month. This covers OFAC screening with PDF documentation. Budget $100–$300/month for AML compliance at this scale.
Does @scorechain_amlbot offer API access for exchanges?
@scorechain_amlbot currently operates as a Telegram bot for self-service checks. For API access needed by exchanges processing 500+ checks/month, Coinfirm or Crystal Blockchain are more appropriate with their lower subscription costs.
Free AML wallet check — no registration required:
Check a Wallet Free →View pricing — from $0.99 per full report