You might have gotten a skeptical look if you’d told an accountant five years ago that AI would reshape their profession. But in 2025, the conversation has shifted from “Is AI a threat?” to “How fast can we implement this?”

The reality is clear: AI is no longer a futuristic concept. It’s here, it’s powerful, and it’s changing the way accounting firms operate—whether they’re ready or not. The biggest question for firms today isn’t if they should embrace AI, but how to maximize its impact.

Let’s break down the state of AI in accounting, based on a recent survey of 539 accounting professionals from 6 continents, with the majority from the United States. From trends and adoption rates to the biggest fears and opportunities, here’s what leaders need to know to stay ahead.

The Pulse: AI’s Effect on Accounting Today

AI’s impact on accounting is already undeniable. With 80% of accounting professionals reporting increased AI functionality in their existing software, automation and machine learning are no longer optional—they’re expected.

• 85% of accountants say they’re excited or intrigued by AI’s potential. But here’s the kicker: only 19% believe their colleagues feel the same.
• Leaders are the most optimistic—63% of firm owners and partners are excited about AI, compared to just 40% of individual contributors.
• AI adoption is rising, but firm-wide conversations about it are lagging. The industry is thinking about AI, but not talking about it enough.

For accounting leaders, this is a golden opportunity. Firms that proactively introduce AI discussions, training, and strategy will position themselves as industry pioneers—while those who hesitate risk falling behind.

How Accounting Firms Are Using AI Right Now

AI is already being used in accounting firms, and not just for basic automation. The top use cases include:

• 63% use AI for communication (email drafting, tone adjustment, and client messaging)
• 41% automate tasks and workflows
• 40% transcribe meetings and generate summaries
• 39% conduct AI-assisted research
• 26% generate marketing content
• 13% leverage AI for financial forecasting and analysis

This signals a shift from AI as a mere support tool to an integral part of accounting operations. And it’s not just small tasks—AI is beginning to play a role in higher-value services like research, forecasting, and strategic planning.

But with great power comes great responsibility, and AI’s rapid adoption raises important challenges.

The AI Paradox: Excitement vs. Anxiety

AI optimism is growing, but concerns remain. While 85% of accountants are excited about AI, only 37% of firms are actively investing in AI training. This disconnect highlights the paradox: firms recognize AI’s value but hesitate to fully commit.

Some key anxieties include:

• 57% believe bookkeeping will be the most disrupted area.
• 46% worry about ethical dilemmas and biases in AI-driven decisions.
• 70% remain concerned about AI’s impact on data security.
• 47% fear AI could reduce human relationships in client interactions.

Notably, these concerns are more pronounced in operations, technology, and administration roles, where automation has the potential to replace routine tasks.

However, firms that embrace AI training report significantly lower skepticism—just 19% of employees in AI-trained firms feel skeptical, compared to 70% in firms with no AI training. In other words, knowledge breeds confidence.

The AI Advantage: Time, Efficiency, and Competitive Edge

AI isn’t just about keeping up—it’s about moving ahead. Firms using AI are saving an average of 56 minutes per employee per day—a potential 18-hour productivity boost per month.

And the benefits scale with expertise:

• Beginner AI users save 46 minutes per day
• Advanced AI users save 79 minutes per day (71% more!)

That’s a major efficiency gain, especially in an industry struggling with talent shortages and retention. The firms that prioritize AI adoption and training are not only increasing profitability but also enhancing work-life balance—making them more attractive to young talent. 

For firms looking to scale, AI is no longer a luxury—it’s the differentiator between staying competitive and getting left behind.

The Future of AI in Accounting: What’s Next?

With AI adoption accelerating, firms must take proactive steps to integrate AI responsibly. Here’s what leaders can do today:

1. Start small, but start now. Experiment with AI tools like ChatGPT, Gemini, or accounting-specific AI features. Identify quick wins to build confidence.
2. Invest in AI training. Employees at firms with AI training are more excited, less skeptical, and more productive. Make training a priority to ease concerns and boost efficiency.
3. Develop an AI policy. A structured approach to AI usage ensures security, compliance, and ethical considerations are met while allowing safe experimentation.
4. Follow AI innovators. Stay informed by following industry experts who are testing AI tools in real accounting environments.
5. Talk about AI internally. If leaders don’t create an AI-friendly culture, employees will remain hesitant. Open the conversation and foster a mindset of innovation.

Conclusion: The Time for AI is Now

Accounting is no stranger to transformation. From paper ledgers to spreadsheets and desktop software to cloud solutions—firms that embrace change thrive. AI is the next frontier, and the firms investing in AI today are shaping the industry of tomorrow.

The numbers don’t lie. AI is here to stay, and those who harness it will drive efficiency, improve client service, and redefine what it means to be an accountant in the digital age.

For accounting leaders, the choice is clear: Adapt and lead, or resist and risk obsolescence. AI isn’t coming—it’s already here. The only question is: Are you ready?