Future of Professionals Report 2026

Actionable insights for tax & audit firm leaders

Explore how AI is transforming the tax and audit profession, the strategic paths firms are pursuing, and the practical actions leaders can take to stay competitive and prepare for the future

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Key findings

48
%
of leaders are already under financial pressure to act faster on AI
35
%
of professionals use AI their organization hasn't approved, creating invisible risks organizations cannot monitor or control
29
%
of professionals are considering leaving roles within 24-months that limit AI potential
49
%
of professionals in firms expect entry-level roles to decrease within the next two to three years

“One of the most important findings in our research is that accounting and audit firm employees increasingly see professional grade AI tools as a non-negotiable part of their jobs.”

Elizabeth Beastrom

President, Tax, Audit & Accounting Professionals, Thomson Reuters

Methodology

This report, based on the Future of Professionals Report 2026, draws from the perspectives of 538 tax and audit firm professionals from more than 40 countries around the globe, offering insights into how AI is reshaping the profession.

We examine the emerging pressures facing firms, the different strategic paths organizations are taking, and the actions leaders can take to strengthen competitiveness, attract and retain talent, and prepare for the future of tax and audit. Explore the full report to better understand the opportunities, risks, and strategic choices facing tax and audit firms today.

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