Elon Musk says Grok can help with your taxes. What experts say about using AI for tax prep (www.cnbc.com)

Amid the approaching April 15 tax deadline, Elon Musk announced that Grok, his AI chatbot, can assist users with their tax filing. However, tax experts caution against relying solely on AI for tax preparation, particularly due to recent changes implemented in 2025 under former President Trump’s tax reforms. While various AI tools like Grok, ChatGPT, and Claude present options for tax assistance, specialists emphasize that these technologies should supplement, rather than replace, the guidance of tax professionals. Experts highlight the complexities surrounding tax regulations, noting that new tax breaks come with nuanced phase-outs that AI may struggle to accurately interpret in relation to individual tax returns. Certified public accountant Michael Deering pointed out that understanding the interplay of different deductions and benefits is critical for accurate filings. Additionally, data privacy remains a concern, as professionals recommend users refrain from inputting sensitive information when seeking AI assistance. While AI can enhance efficiency, ultimate responsibility for the accuracy of tax returns lies with the filers themselves, underscoring the need for careful review and cautious use of these emerging technologies in tax prep.