How to Use AI to Do Your Own Taxes, Step by Step (With Prompts)
Use AI for four jobs: making a checklist, explaining screens, finding things to ask about, and reviewing. File with tax software. Remove personal data from every prompt.
Before you start
Pick where you will actually file: tax software or IRS Free File. ChatGPT cannot file a return. [1] Then set up your AI tool privately: in ChatGPT, turn off model training in Data controls or use a Temporary chat. [2]
Step 1: Build your document checklist
I'm a US taxpayer filing my 2025 federal return. Here is my situation (no personal identifiers): [single/married, W-2 job, side gig income, rent or own, kids, student loans, investments]. Give me a checklist of documents I should gather, and flag commonly forgotten ones. Ask me clarifying questions first.
Step 2: Understand each form you received
Explain what each box on a Form 1099-NEC means in plain English, and where that income usually goes on a federal return. Don't use my numbers; just explain.
Step 3: Work through the software, asking when stuck
Most confusion happens mid-interview. Copy the question text from the software screen (not your answers) into the chat:
My tax software is asking: "[paste the question]". What does this mean, what are common situations where the answer is yes, and what IRS publication covers it?
Step 4: Ask what to look into, not what to claim
Based on this situation (no identifiers): [summary]. List deductions and credits I should research, with the IRS form or publication for each. Mark anything that changed for tax year 2025 and tell me to verify it on IRS.gov.
Experts quoted by CBS News warn chatbots may miss recent law changes, so always verify. [3]
Step 5: Review before you file
Here is a summary of my return with personal info removed: filing status, income by type, deductions taken, credits taken. What questions would a careful tax preparer ask before filing? What looks unusual?
Step 6: Verify and file in your software
The IRS says to verify any calculations or information from AI. [4] Use the software's own review and error check, then e-file.
Want an agent to do more of the clicking? See using AI agents for your taxes.
Sources
- OpenAI Help Center: Finances in ChatGPT Verified Oct 16, 2026
- OpenAI Help Center: Data controls in ChatGPT Verified Oct 16, 2026
- CBS News: Should you use AI to file your taxes? Verified Oct 16, 2026
- IRS: Dirty Dozen tax scams for 2026 Verified Oct 16, 2026
FAQ
Which AI is best for taxes?
We have not yet run our own scored test. Any general chatbot can explain concepts. What matters more is verifying answers and keeping personal data out.
Can AI find deductions I missed?
It can suggest deductions to look into. Whether you qualify depends on IRS rules, so check each suggestion in your software or IRS instructions.