O*NET: Tax Preparers·13-2082.00
The Verdict:AI tax software already computes liabilities, optimizes deductions, completes forms, and offers routine advice at professional quality. Humans add value in client interviews and custom planning, but these shrink as AI handles complexity. Routine preparation is largely automated, with acceleration expected over the next decade.
Score tiers
How much of this role's daily work remains beyond AI and robotic automation.
The degree to which this job needs a human present — hands-on, in the field, or in the room.
How important the unique human edge is — for trust, accountability, or judgment.
How strong the legal requirement is for a human in this job (by law, licensing, or credentials).
How far AI remains from performing this role's core functions.
The volume of jobs in this field being eliminated by AI or automation right now.
Median annual wage from the Bureau of Labor Statistics Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics (OEWS), May 2024 release.
Projected change in total number of jobs (not salary) from 2024–2034. Source: Bureau of Labor Statistics Employment Projections.
Percentage of this role's analyzed tasks that AI can handle autonomously or nearly so. 9 of 12 tasks are classified as AI-exposed.
A significant share of this role is already automatable.
9 of 12 tasks can be handled by AI. Your value concentrates in the human-essential tasks below. The 25% of tasks that are AI-leverage is where mastering the tools keeps you ahead.
Tasks AI can do autonomously or nearly so
Master these tools — humans who do outperform those who don't
Tasks requiring trust, presence, or novel judgment
Tax Preparer lands in Lower Pay, High Risk