As the 2025 tax season looms, a word of caution is in order: relying solely on AI tools and social media for tax advice could land you in hot water. But here's where it gets controversial: while these resources can be helpful, they’re not always reliable—and this is the part most people miss. With recent legislative changes and major life events like marriage, divorce, or having a child, the stakes are higher than ever. So, how can you navigate this complex landscape?
Joyce Cheng, from the California Society of Enrolled Agents, warns that AI tools often provide outdated information. “People need to be vigilant about checking when the data was last updated,” she explains. “Otherwise, they might rely on old advice and end up in a real mess.” Cheng encourages taxpayers to use AI and social media as starting points but stresses the importance of verifying details with a tax professional, the IRS, or California’s Franchise Tax Board. “Increased awareness is great, but it’s only useful if followed by accurate information,” she adds.
Kaya Klotzek, a tax expert and board member of the California Tax Education Council, raises another concern: the average taxpayer may not know how to effectively use AI tools like ChatGPT. “Phrasing questions correctly or finding the right keywords isn’t as straightforward as it seems,” Klotzek notes. She highlights the limitations of AI in understanding nuanced personal situations, such as changes in marital status or filing requirements. “These are things a human brain considers, but an AI-prompted tool might overlook,” she explains.
And this is where it gets even trickier: social media content creators often prioritize eye-catching posts over accuracy, speaking in generalities that may not apply to your unique circumstances or state laws. Klotzek advises, “Be wary of flashy advice—it’s not always tailored to your needs.”
With the April 15 deadline approaching, both experts emphasize the importance of working with reputable professionals. Their organizations—the California Society of Enrolled Agents and the California Tax Education Council—offer tools to verify the legitimacy of tax professionals and find trustworthy assistance.
Here’s a thought-provoking question for you: As AI and social media become more integrated into our lives, should we rely on them for critical tasks like tax filing, or are they better suited as supplementary resources? Share your thoughts in the comments—we’d love to hear your perspective!
For more California news, visit our website, download our app, subscribe to our morning newsletter, or find us on YouTube and subscribe to our channel.
