Tax season is often a busy and stressful period for small business owners. Those looking to streamline their tax preparation processes might consider leveraging tools powered by artificial intelligence (AI).
Many financial and tax preparation platforms have begun leveraging AI to assist taxpayers. AI chatbots and virtual assistants can provide general business tax information and answer routine questions. This functionality can be particularly helpful in understanding current tax regulations and ensuring ongoing compliance. AI-powered tools can also process and analyze vast amounts of data, which can streamline tax processes that are typically more time-consuming and prone to human error.
"AI may streamline tax preparation by categorizing transactions and identifying deductions, making it easier to stay organized," said Karla Dennis, an enrolled tax agent and the CEO and Founder of KDA Inc.
Dennis added that, as the technology evolves, AI may automate these processes with improved accuracy and efficiency. She also noted that in the near future, machine learning could draw from historical financial data to provide more personalized financial advice.
If you're considering using AI to help with tax prep this season, here's what you need to know about the current limitations of these tools, along with some prompts and shortcuts to try.
[Read more: AI Tools That Can Help You Start, Run, and Grow Your Small Business]
Limitations of AI for business tax preparation
While AI has significant potential for simplifying business tax preparation, it isn't completely foolproof.
"These tools aren't perfect and may misclassify expenses or overlook specific tax nuances, which still requires human oversight," Dennis explained. "There is a learning curve to using these platforms, and relying solely on AI could lead to compliance issues if not properly managed."
She added that AI tools may lack the nuance to interpret data and make appropriate recommendations accurately, especially for complex tax scenarios. Privacy and security are also areas of concern regarding AI-powered tax preparation.
"While AI tools can be helpful, I don't recommend relying on them completely, especially when dealing with sensitive financial data," advised Dennis. "If [business owners] do use one, it's crucial to review privacy policies carefully and use reputable tools only."
There is a learning curve to using these platforms, and relying solely on AI could lead to compliance issues if not properly managed.
Karla Dennis, CEO and Founder of KDA Inc.
AI shortcuts for small business taxes
For small business owners looking to leverage AI for business tax preparation, financial and tax software with AI tools can be an easy way to start. Platforms like TurboTax, H&R Block, and even the IRS website have incorporated AI solutions into their offerings, though human expertise is always available. There are also some standalone AI tax platforms, including TaxGPT, AiTax, and Taxly.ai, that can automate many tax preparation processes.
In addition to using AI-powered tax preparation tools, small business owners can leverage ChatGPT and other generative AI tools to streamline their preparation processes. Keep in mind that when using these tools, you should redact any personal identifying information.
Some use cases and AI prompts for business tax prep include the following:
- Creating a checklist for necessary tax information: "I am a small business owner [plus information about your business, its structure, etc.]. Create a workflow checklist, including the information I need to gather and the steps I need to take, to file my tax return."
- Interpreting current tax laws: "Summarize the key takeaways from [tax law] for small business owners."
- Identifying eligible deductions: "Which tax deductions am I eligible for as a small business owner? [Provide pertinent information about your business, financial reports, business expenses, etc.]"
- Calculating estimated tax: "Analyze the following financial information to determine whether the business owes state or federal estimated tax payments and if so, how much: [include income and expense details, jurisdiction, tax obligations, etc.]."
- Reviewing financial reports: "Review the following financial reports and identify any potential errors or discrepancies: [include financial statements, tax returns, expenses/deductions, etc.]."
[Read more: Ready. Set. Scale. Smart Tax Tips for a Stress-Free Filing]
While AI can serve as a helpful starting point and cross-check, it should not be your sole source of information. The IRS Taxpayer Advocate Service advises that taxpayers are ultimately responsible for the information submitted on their tax returns — meaning that any errors or miscalculations will be your responsibility.
To avoid any potential issues, carefully review any information and calculations AI provides. It's also always wise to consult with a qualified tax professional who can provide personalized guidance and ensure ongoing compliance with current regulations.
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