AI Agents and RPA for Accountants Key Differences and Uses

Introduction

As automation becomes integral to tax and accounting workflows, robotic process automation (RPA) and agentic AI are emerging as key technologies. The accounting profession, traditionally cautious, is increasingly adopting these tools to enhance efficiency and client service.

Key Findings

• 2025 State of Tax Professionals Report: 49% of respondents plan to use technology to boost profits, and 47% prioritize AI investments.
• Future of Professionals Report 2025: 53% of professionals already benefit from AI, with 80% expecting high or transformative impacts in five years.

Defining Agentic AI and RPA

Agentic AI

• Leverages generative AI and large language models (LLMs) for autonomous operation.
• Adapts to changing scenarios, seeks information proactively, and improves outputs without constant human intervention.
• Capabilities:
  • Accesses multiple data sources and tools.
  • Executes multi-step processes autonomously.
  • Makes decisions within defined parameters.

RPA

• Uses bots to automate repetitive, rule-based tasks.
• Follows predefined rules without learning or adapting.
• Requires regular updates and maintenance.

Differences Between AI Agents and RPA

• Agentic AI: Best for complex problem-solving, adapts to new data, and operates autonomously.
• RPA: Ideal for repetitive tasks, lacks decision-making capabilities, and is rigid in structure.

Use Cases for Accountants

Agentic AI

• Monitors regulatory changes and flags compliance issues.
• Analyzes market trends and financial data for tax planning.
• Reviews financial records and prepares audit reports.
• Handles client communications and schedules meetings.

RPA

• Automates purchase orders and bank reconciliations.
• Scrapes websites for data like banking transactions.
• Best for tasks with no API alternatives.

Will AI Replace RPA?

Experts suggest both technologies will coexist:

• Michael Kim (Thomson Reuters): "RPA is effective for stable, rules-based processes, while agentic AI excels in cognitive tasks."
• Dustin Teribery (Thomson Reuters): "RPA and AI may complement each other in the future."