Artificial intelligence (AI) is no longer a distant concept but a present-day reality for industries worldwide. And while its adoption varies across sectors, there's often one shared goal in mind: to increase productivity.
Accounting is no exception. CPAs are exploring new ways to leverage AI in accounting and streamline their workflows. Furthermore, firms are discovering how to use AI in accounting to increase their bottom line and drive long-term growth.
What is AI’s role in accounting?
The accounting industry is now recognizing the significant advantages that AI offers. According to KarbonHQ's State of AI in Accounting Report 2025, 85% of accounting professionals are excited or intrigued by AI's potential. However, only 37% of firms are investing in AI training for their employees.
This gap presents a significant opportunity for your firm to gain a competitive edge. By learning how to use AI in accounting, you can streamline your firm’s operations, enhance client services, and drive sustainable growth.
Will AI replace accountants?
It's true that AI can automate many accounting tasks and quickly analyze large amounts of data—but that doesn't mean accountants will become obsolete.
Accounting involves more than just crunching numbers. It requires critical thinking, ethical judgment, and strong client relationships. And while AI excels at processing information, it can't replicate the human ability to understand complex financial situations or provide personalized advice.
Instead, AI serves as a powerful tool that enhances an accountant's capabilities, freeing them to focus on strategic planning and building deeper client connections. It's about working together—not replacing human expertise.
What are the benefits of AI for accounting firms?
Boosted efficiency and accuracy
By automating routine tasks like data entry, AI technology enables accountants to work faster while minimizing the risk of human error, leading to more reliable financial reporting in less time. CPAs can also use accounting AI tools to analyze large datasets quickly and identify trends or anomalies. This allows for faster, more informed decision-making.
Better client intake and client service
AI-powered tools can automate the initial stages of client onboarding by collecting information and writing accounting proposals. This not only reduces the administrative burden on accounting staff but also provides smooth first interactions with new clients. AI also enables faster, more efficient communication. Chatbots and virtual assistants can handle routine inquiries, schedule appointments, and provide instant answers to common questions.
Improved time and cost savings
Using AI to automate repetitive tasks like invoice processing, expense tracking, and basic data entry ultimately translates into lower labor costs and increased productivity. AI's ability to minimize errors and streamline processes also reduces the need for costly rework and corrections. This improved accuracy leads to better compliance and fewer financial discrepancies, saving the firm both time and money.
Boost cash flow and productivity by complementing AI tools with 8amTM CPACharge
8am™️ CPACharge helps accounting professionals simplify and automate payments, making it a natural complement to AI-powered operations. With CPACharge, firms can:
- Send itemized invoices with a secure payment link.
- Offer clients convenient and secure online payment options, including credit, debit, and eCheck.
- Reconcile deposits quickly with complete transaction details and QuickBooks Online integration.
- Manage seasonal revenue trends, project cash flow, and identify growth opportunities using accounting dashboards.
Learn more about AI tools and tips for accountants, and discover how CPACharge’s billing solutions help accounting professionals work faster, deliver a better client experience, and keep revenue flowing smoothly.