How I Used ChatGPT To Get Through My 2025 Tax Season

As a small business owner who wears many hats, tax season can often feel like a whirlwind of numbers, reconciliations, and unanswered questions. For years, I turned to Google for help when QuickBooks threw me curveballs—whether it was an account connection error or needing to add a new transaction category to my chart of accounts. But sifting through endless search results for the right solution wasted hours I couldn’t afford to lose.

This tax season, however, I discovered a game-changer: ChatGPT. Instead of wading through pages of outdated google results or overly technical articles, I simply asked ChatGPT my accounting questions, and the results were immediate, actionable, and tailored to MY needs. Here’s how AI can revolutionize your tax season in 2025—and save you both time and money.

Why Use ChatGPT for During Tax Season?

If you’re like me, juggling your books while managing everything else in your life, ChatGPT is a lifesaver. Here’s why it worked better than Google:

1. Immediate Answers: I asked ChatGPT, “Why won’t my QuickBooks account connect properly?” and it provided clear troubleshooting steps instantly—no need to click through multiple links.

2. Tailored Guidance: Unlike Google, where results are generic, ChatGPT offered me solutions specific to QuickBooks and small business accounting. For instance, it showed me how to create a new account in my chart of accounts with easy-to-follow instructions.

3. Saves Time: Let’s face it—time is money. Instead of wasting hours on Google or paying an accountant for simple fixes, I resolved my issues in minutes with ChatGPT.

4. Cost-Effective: While hiring an accountant is sometimes necessary, many small businesses can reduce expenses by using ChatGPT for routine queries. It’s like having an assistant on standby 24/7—for a fraction of the cost. Prior to ChatGPT - I used to spend $150 PER HOUR to have an accountant help me with my end of year tax questions! Thats over HALF A YEAR of my ChatGPT subscription!

How to Use ChatGPT for Tax Season Success

Here are a few examples of how you can use ChatGPT for accounting and bookkeeping tasks:

1. Troubleshooting QuickBooks Errors

Ask ChatGPT things like:

• “Why won’t my bank account sync with QuickBooks?”

• “How do I fix reconciliation discrepancies?”

• “How do I categorize a transaction that doesn’t fit my current accounts?”

2. Customizing Your Chart of Accounts

Not sure how to handle a new expense or income category? ChatGPT can guide you step by step:

• “How do I add a new account in QuickBooks?”

• “What’s the correct way to categorize a subscription expense?”

3. Understanding Tax Deductions

Use ChatGPT to ask:

• “What expenses are deductible for small businesses in 2025?”

• “How do I track home office deductions in QuickBooks?”

4. Learning Accounting Basics

If you’re new to bookkeeping or just need a refresher, ChatGPT can explain:

• “What’s the difference between cash and accrual accounting?”

• “How do I calculate my quarterly estimated taxes?”

Frequently Asked Questions About Using ChatGPT During Tax Season

Can ChatGPT replace an accountant?

While ChatGPT is excellent for answering basic questions, solving errors, and helping you understand processes, it’s not a licensed professional. For complex tax situations or audits, you should still consult a certified accountant.

How much does it cost to use ChatGPT?

The cost depends on the platform and subscription plan you choose. Many find it a small investment compared to the hourly rates of accountants.

What if ChatGPT doesn’t understand my question?

Be as specific as possible when phrasing your queries. Include details about the software or problem to get the best response.

How ChatGPT Saves Time and Money When Doing Your Taxes

Using ChatGPT for your accounting queries isn’t just about convenience; it’s about reclaiming valuable time to focus on growing your business or spending more time with your family. Whether you’re troubleshooting QuickBooks errors or figuring out how to optimize your deductions, ChatGPT is a must-have tool for the modern entrepreneur.

Ready to simplify your tax season? Try ChatGPT for your accounting questions and experience how AI can transform your workflow. Let me know in the comments—what’s one bookkeeping task you’d love to outsource to AI?

Author’s Note: As a busy mom running multiple businesses, I understand how overwhelming tax season can be. ChatGPT has saved me countless hours this year, and I hope it can do the same for you!