The State of AI in Accounting: 2025 Trends, Insights & Why Relationships Still Matter

Artificial intelligence isn’t just a buzzword in the accounting world anymore. In 2025, AI has become a real tool that’s changing how firms operate, collaborate, and serve their clients. But as we move into this new era of automation, it’s worth asking: What’s the real secret to a successful and meaningful career in accounting...and in life?

AI in Accounting: Here’s Where We Stand

Just a few years ago, the idea of software that could draft emails, process transactions, or summarize meetings seemed futuristic. Today, that’s reality. According to the State of AI in Accounting Report 2025 by Karbon, more than 80% of accounting professionals say AI is now a routine part of their day, and the majority are genuinely optimistic, seeing AI as a chance to work more efficiently, not just as a trend.

Where AI Is Making the Biggest Impact (Karbon, 2025)

• Communication: AI is now commonly used to draft and refine emails, automate reminders, and keep client outreach consistent.

  
  

• Task Automation: Firms are using AI to handle repetitive tasks like transaction categorization and workflow updates, giving staff more time for higher-level work.

  
  

• Meeting Summaries: More firms are leveraging AI to record, transcribe, and summarize meetings, saving time and ensuring follow-through.

  
  

Other growing uses include research, marketing content, and advanced analytics, with the majority of firms reporting improvements in speed, accuracy, and cost efficiency.

The Upside: Time, Savings, and New Opportunities

AI is helping accountants reclaim their time. Some firms estimate saving nearly an hour each day, time that’s being redirected to analysis, strategy, and client service. Error rates are dropping, and firms are able to deliver insights and reports faster than ever.

This shift is also enabling a move toward more advisory work. With the “busy work” off their plate, accounting professionals are focusing more on advising clients and helping them plan for the future, not just balancing the books (Karbon, 2025).

Not Everyone Is 100% Confident—Yet

Despite the excitement, some professionals feel uncertain. Staff who are newer to AI or who don’t receive much training may worry about data security, the learning curve, or what automation might mean for their role.

Leadership teams are almost twice as likely as individual contributors to feel enthusiastic about AI’s potential. The difference? Firms that invest in clear training, support, and transparent communication see far less anxiety and much greater benefits from these new tools.

Caution Flags: What to Watch For

• Data security: Storing sensitive financial data in AI systems means firms need strong policies, robust passwords, and careful permissions.

  
  

• The right fit: Not all AI tools are created equal—choose solutions built for accounting, and make sure they integrate with your existing workflows.

  
  

• Human connection: About half of professionals worry about losing the personal touch with clients. Remember, technology should help us serve people better, not replace meaningful interaction (Karbon, 2025).

Balancing Innovation With Human Connection

While AI is transforming accounting, it’s essential to remember what truly fuels satisfaction and long-term success.

As highlighted in a recent article by Dr. Robert Waldinger, director of the Harvard Study of Adult Development, “the biggest driver of happiness and meaning isn’t just about achievement or new technology—it’s the quality of our relationships” (MSN.com, March 2024). His decades of research show that strong connections, with clients, colleagues, and our communities, are what truly lead to fulfillment and long-term success.

As accounting firms free up hours through automation, they’re presented with a valuable opportunity: Use that extra time to deepen client relationships and foster stronger team connections. Whether it’s scheduling a quick check-in with a client, taking time to celebrate a win together, or simply listening to a teammate, small efforts can build a workplace that’s both productive and genuinely supportive.

At the end of the day: AI can help us work smarter, but it’s our human connections—being there for each other and prioritizing strong relationships—that make the work truly meaningful. As our industry moves forward, the firms that succeed will be those that embrace new technology while never losing sight of the people behind the numbers.

Ready to get more from AI and still keep what matters most?

Let’s talk about how you can use technology to streamline your firm—while making space for connection and growth. Contact Director2Finance.com for an AI-readiness consult or just to chat about what’s next for your team :)