AI is the talk of the tax profession—but what does it mean for your work? If you’re like many tax advisors I speak to, the idea of “AI transformation” can feel vague, overwhelming, or even unsettling. Will it enhance our roles or replace them altogether?
I’m Dr. Beibei Flynn, founder of Leapifai, Ireland’s first AI-powered tax research tool. With decades of experience navigating tax complexities and building AI systems, I understand both the excitement and apprehension around AI in our profession. In this article, I’ll explore what AI means for tax consultants, the challenges we face, and the opportunities it presents. This isn’t about hype or fear—it’s about understanding how we can embrace this change thoughtfully and practically to advance in our profession.
One of AI’s most immediate benefits is its ability to handle time-consuming, repetitive tasks. Think about the hours spent analyzing large datasets, preparing tax returns, or conducting research for specific client cases. These are the kinds of tasks AI can now manage with remarkable accuracy and efficiency.
For example, I’ve built AI-powered systems that extract and analyze large datasets to identify compliance risks. Through my work on the Real-Time Risk Framework for Revenue, I’ve seen firsthand how AI can dramatically improve efficiency while maintaining accuracy.
This shift doesn’t mean our profession is disappearing—but it is evolving. Traditionally, entry-level tax roles focused on repetitive compliance tasks, serving as a training ground for junior professionals. As automation takes over these functions, the challenge is ensuring that new professionals gain the hands-on experience they need.
At the same time, AI is an incredible tool for senior advisors. It’s not replacing expertise—it’s enhancing it. AI insights can inform complex tax strategies, support client advisory work, and help tax professionals stay updated with evolving regulations. In my experience, AI is best used to complement professional skills and give firms a competitive edge—something that major firms have already leveraged.
A well-known saying from NVIDIA's CEO is: “It’s not AI replacing people; it’s people using AI who will replace those who don’t.” This applies strongly to tax professionals.
According to LexisNexis, 71% of UK lawyers report that AI allows them to complete work faster. The same shift is expected in tax, as PwC UK has already implemented AI tools to improve productivity and efficiency. It’s only a matter of time before AI becomes an industry standard in tax advisory.
One of the biggest concerns tax professionals have about AI is data security and ethics. AI’s power lies in its ability to analyze vast amounts of data—but with great power comes great responsibility. As tax advisors, we handle some of the most sensitive financial data.
When developing Leapifai, one of my top priorities was security and compliance. That’s why we ensure:
Enterprise-grade cybersecurity with industry-leading protection.
AWS cloud hosting with strong security controls.
Data encryption and strict user access protocols.
Transparency is just as important as security. Our Beta users have emphasized the need for AI systems to clearly cite sources and reasoning, and we’re ensuring that these features are built into Leapifai’s official launch.
Automation could impact diversity in the tax profession. Traditionally, entry-level compliance roles provided opportunities for professionals from diverse backgrounds. If these roles decrease, we risk limiting access to the profession.
To counteract this, firms must rethink training pathways. Apprenticeships and internships that focus on strategic, high-value tasks rather than just compliance work could help maintain diversity while adapting to AI-driven changes.
Tax professionals who invest in AI education will gain a competitive edge. Attend industry events, take AI-related courses, and explore tax-specific AI applications. Understanding how AI works will help you leverage it effectively in your practice.
As AI handles compliance work, tax advisors should shift towards strategic advisory roles. Clients will always value personalized guidance, and human expertise remains irreplaceable in high-stakes tax planning and consultancy.
Rather than fearing AI, embrace it as a partner. Use AI-powered tools to:
Streamline workflows and reduce manual research time.
Analyze financial data with greater precision.
Improve efficiency while applying professional judgment.
AI-driven tax advisory must align with ethical standards. Transparency in AI-generated insights builds client trust and maintains professional integrity.
AI is already transforming the tax profession, but many professionals remain hesitant. By understanding AI’s capabilities and limitations, we can harness its power to elevate our work, serve clients better, and future-proof our careers.
At Leapifai, I’ve seen firsthand how AI can empower tax professionals to work smarter, not harder. But the key to success isn’t just adopting AI—it’s embracing a new mindset and approach to work.
If you’re curious to learn more about how AI can support your tax advisory work, connect with us at info@leapifai.com. It’s an exciting time to be in the tax profession!
Buckley, P., Doyle, E., McCarthy, B., & Gilligan, R. (2023). Artificial Intelligence and the Tax Practitioner. Journal of Tax Administration.
Thomson Reuters (2024). Generative AI in Professional Services Report.
KPMG Insights (2024). AI in Tax: Challenges and Opportunities.
Tolley (2024). How AI is Transforming Tax Practice.