AI Adoption in Accounting Firms Grows by 34% in One Year

29 Jan

The accounting profession is undergoing a major transformation, driven by artificial intelligence (AI), digital technology, and an increasing shift toward advisory services. offers an international perspective, highlighting the key challenges and opportunities firms face today.

The accounting profession is evolving fast, with AI, digital transformation, and advisory services leading the way. A recent global report, 🔗 Wolters Kluwer Future Ready Accountant Report offers highlights how firms are adapting to new technology and the challenges they face.

AI Is Gaining Ground, But Challenges Remain

More accountants are starting to see AI as a game-changer—57% believe it will have a big impact on the industry. AI tools are still new, but adoption is growing fast, with nearly half of firms expected to use them in the next year.

The biggest roadblocks? Data security, accuracy concerns, and costs. Surprisingly, firms that have a clear AI policy in place are twice as confident in AI’s benefits compared to those without a plan.

Firms That Embrace Digital Tools See More Growth

Technology is transforming the way accountants work. The report found that:

62% of firms now use cloud technology for accounting tasks.
Firms with strong tech integration (75%+) are growing faster—78% of them reported revenue growth.
Firms that don’t embrace digital solutions risk falling behind—those with little or no tech saw slower growth.

More Firms Are Offering Advisory Services

Accounting is shifting beyond compliance work—83% of firms now provide advisory services such as financial planning, forecasting, and management reports. These services help accountants stay competitive and meet growing client expectations.

Firms focusing on advisory work are 49% more likely to experience high growth, proving that technology + strategic services is the winning formula.

Talent Shortages Are a Growing Concern

Hiring and keeping skilled staff is a major challenge, with 41% of firms predicting talent shortages will impact them in the next five years. However, 80% of firms agree that technology helps, allowing accountants to automate routine tasks and focus on more meaningful work.

What’s Next for Accounting Firms?

The Future Ready Accountant report makes one thing clear: firms that invest in AI, cloud technology, and advisory services will have the edge. Those who fail to adapt risk getting left behind.

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