Will AI Replace CPAs? A Closer Look at Current Trends

There has been an increasing conversation around the potential for Artificial Intelligence (AI) to revolutionize various industries, including Accounting. Many believe that Certified Public Accountants (CPAs) may soon find themselves obsolete due to advancements in technology. However, one analyst argues against this prevailing narrative, providing a more nuanced perspective.

Several discussions and articles on platforms like Reddit highlight the remarkable capabilities of AI—though to clarify, we are discussing Artificial Intelligence and not any other variation. The common sentiment is that AI could replace accountants, which may be an oversimplification of the future landscape.

When we assess the advancements and current state of AI, it appears that while some entry-level positions might be automated within the next decade, the roles requiring higher-level skills and critical thinking will likely remain safe for many years to come. Unless we experience a groundbreaking shift in technology that we cannot currently foresee, it is reasonable to believe that these more complex positions will continue to require the human touch for the foreseeable future.

For emerging professionals in Accounting, this is a call to action. If you hold an associate’s degree, consider the long-term benefits of pursuing a bachelor’s degree or higher. Those employed in clerk positions—such as Accounts Payable, Accounts Receivable, or Payroll Clerks—should focus on developing a broader skill set to qualify for more advanced roles within the field.

Bookkeepers, depending on their role, face varied degrees of risk from AI. If you are an integral part of a small firm, your position is less susceptible to replacement. However, those working as a mere cog in a larger financial machine may find themselves in a similar predicament as clerical staff.

For those on the path to CPA or other certified roles, there seems to be little evidence that AI poses an immediate threat. Recent iterations of AI, particularly large language models (LLMs), have struggled with accuracy, and the substantial energy requirements make them less sustainable. Therefore, if you maintain your skills and stay updated with industry trends, your career is likely secure for the next several decades. It’s always wise to consider saving for an early retirement, but that remains a sound strategy regardless of technological advancements.

For further reading, I recommend this thought-provoking article discussing the limitations of AI: [The Day of Reckoning May Have Come](https://www.telegraph.co.uk/business/2025/05/07/the-day-of-reckoning-may-have-come-the