What Experts Say About Using AI this Tax Season

With about six weeks until the April 15 tax deadline, some taxpayers are turning to artificial intelligence tools to help with their returns. From chatbots to built-in assistants in tax software, AI is becoming a new option for people looking to simplify tax season.

But tax experts say filers should approach these tools carefully.

AI Tools Are Becoming More Common

Today, there are several AI tools that can help answer tax questions or review information while preparing returns. Popular chatbots like ChatGPT and Claude can explain tax rules, help users organize documents, or double-check information in a return.

Some tax preparation platforms now include their own built-in AI assistants as well.

For people with simple tax situations, these tools can help explain confusing terms, generate checklists of forms, or flag possible deductions they may have overlooked.

However, experts warn that a larger refund suggested by an AI tool does not automatically mean your return is correct.

A Bigger Refund Doesn’t Always Mean It’s Right

Tom O’Saben, director of tax content and government relations at the National Association of Tax Professionals, says taxpayers should always compare their returns with previous years. If your refund or tax bill changes dramatically, there should be a clear explanation.

Looking at past returns can help taxpayers understand why differences occur—whether it’s due to income changes, tax credits, deductions, or updates to tax law.

Without that context, relying solely on AI recommendations could lead to mistakes.

Tax Rules Are Getting More Complicated

Taxes may be especially tricky this year because of new rules passed in 2025 through legislation signed by Donald Trump.

Some of the new tax breaks come with phase-outs, meaning the benefits gradually shrink or disappear as income rises.

According to certified public accountant Michael Deering, a partner and tax services leader at accounting firm Mowery & Schoenfeld, these details can make it difficult for AI tools to interpret how certain tax breaks affect a full return.

“Each of the areas have some nuance,” Deering said, noting that AI tools may struggle with complicated tax situations.

Many Taxpayers Still Prefer Professionals

Despite the growing availability of AI tools, many Americans remain cautious.

A recent survey by software platform Invoice Home found that only 37% of tax filers in 2026 said they would trust AI over a tax professional, down from 43% the year before.

This suggests that while AI is becoming more common, most people still prefer human expertise when dealing with something as important as their taxes.

Be Careful With Personal Information

Another concern experts raise is privacy.

Tax returns contain sensitive personal data, including Social Security numbers, income records, and financial account details. Entering that information into a public AI chatbot could expose it to security risks.

O’Saben says AI can still be useful for general tax questions—but recommends avoiding sharing private information when using these tools.

Instead, use AI for broad explanations or guidance and keep sensitive data inside secure tax software.

Remember: You’re Responsible for Your Return

Whether you prepare your taxes yourself, use software, or rely on professional help, the taxpayer is ultimately responsible for what is filed.

When submitting a return, filers sign a statement confirming that the information is accurate to the best of their knowledge.

That means if an AI tool makes a mistake, the responsibility still falls on the person filing the return.

The Bottom Line

AI can be a helpful assistant during tax season—especially for understanding complicated terminology or organizing paperwork.

But experts say it should be treated as a support tool, not the final authority. Reviewing past returns, verifying information, and consulting trusted tax professionals when needed can help ensure your return is accurate.ta