By Blue J
Accounting firms aren’t just trying AI anymore. They’re relying on it. Drawing on survey data from 1,000 US-based accountants, the Blue J and CPA.com 2026 AI Tax Research Solution Outlook Report explores this shift.
This year’s report reveals an unexpected effect of increased AI adoption: more focus on the uniquely human experiences and skills AI can’t replace. From deepening client relationships to prioritizing practitioner judgment, AI-driven efficiencies are helping firms to better serve both clients and staff.
Adoption is past the tipping point
While only 33% reported working for firms that had adopted AI-powered tax research in 2025, that number has nearly doubled to 60% in 2026.
A changing relationship with time
Time savings remain one of the top advantages of using AI-powered tax research, with 83% of respondents citing it as a key benefit of AI in 2025 and 84% citing it in 2026. 50% cite improving client response and project delivery timelines as areas they do or would want to put that saved time, while 47% say they’d put it towards improving work-life balance for staff, and 46% saying they’d use it to deliver higher-quality advice to clients.
Rethinking the billable hour
In a profession that’s long been defined by the billable hour, time savings also come with some financial considerations. As they look to adapt their billing to better match the pace of AI-enabled workflows, 69% of AI adopters are considering alternatives such as value-based, hybrid, and fixed-fee billing.
More room for professional judgment
Time isn’t the only thing AI-powered tax research is freeing up. 77% of respondents who have adopted AI-powered tax research say it gives them more time to do work that better leverages their professional judgment.
Read the full report to learn more about how AI is transforming the tax profession—and how to adapt.
This content is supplied by Blue J.
Blue J is the leading AI-powered tax research solution, delivering defensible tax answers in seconds—powered by primary authoritative content and exclusive expert commentary. Founded in 2015, Blue J is trusted by thousands of organizations, including Big Four firms and Fortune 100 companies.
