Published: 13/10/2025 By Hannah Duncan
With the 31st January 2026 self-assessment deadline fast approaching, it’s no surprise that taxpayers are looking for quicker, smarter ways to get their tax returns done. And with artificial intelligence (AI) tools like ChatGPT, Copilot and Gemini just a few clicks away, it’s easy to see the appeal.According to new research from Taxfix, three out of four taxpayers say they plan to use AI to help complete their next tax return. The top reasons? Convenience, time-saving, and the fact that many tools are free or low-cost.
While this enthusiasm for innovation is exciting, it also comes with a word of caution. AI can be a fantastic assistant but it’s not yet ready to replace the expertise of a qualified accountant.
Why people are turning to AI
The research shows that most individuals find tax season stressful, and AI offers a way to ease that anxiety. Many respondents said AI made the process feel simpler and more manageable and there’s no denying that these tools can help with general explanations or simple calculations.
However, when it comes to understanding the nuances of the UK tax system, AI can easily miss the mark. British tax legislation is complex and constantly evolving, and even the most sophisticated AI models don’t always interpret it correctly.
The human touch still matters
Interestingly, the same survey found that 81% of people still want access to qualified professionals such as accountants when needed. That’s reassuring and it highlights the ideal scenario: humans and AI working together.
At its best, AI can streamline admin, help gather information, and answer quick questions. But human oversight is essential for ensuring accuracy, identifying reliefs, and managing more complex tax affairs.
When AI gets it wrong
Recent tribunal cases have shown what can happen when people put too much faith in AI-generated answers.
In one 2025 case, a taxpayer used an AI chatbot to justify their argument against HMRC only to discover that the chatbot had fabricated entire legal cases. A similar incident saw a junior barrister reprimanded for citing fictitious cases sourced from AI.
These examples underline a simple truth: AI can assist but it can also invent. Without expert guidance, it’s easy for misinformation to slip through.
Social media adds to the mix
AI isn’t the only digital source taxpayers are turning to. The same research found that 43% of people now use social media sites like TikTok and YouTube for tax advice.
While some creators provide useful insights, there’s a growing amount of inaccurate or misleading content circulating online. The Financial Conduct Authority (FCA) has even issued warnings about over-reliance on social media influencers for financial guidance.
Notably, younger taxpayers are most likely to look to social platforms first, over half of 18–24 year-olds prefer TikTok or YouTube for information, compared to 67% of 55–64 year-olds who still trust HMRC’s official sources.
Finding the right balance
The takeaway? AI is here to stay and used wisely, it can make tax preparation faster and less stressful. But it should be viewed as a tool, not a replacement for qualified advice.
As accountants, we can help clients navigate this new landscape confidently: combining AI efficiency with human expertise to ensure their returns are accurate, compliant, and stress-free.
Because when it comes to your tax affairs, nothing beats the reassurance of real experience.