In 2026, AI is all around us—even if we’re not always aware of it. Smartphones, search engines, social media, online chatbots, and email platforms all incorporate AI technology to enhance efficiency and personalize user experiences. Almost every industry is adopting AI in some form or another to enhance productivity and streamline workflows. More and more, people are turning to AI for near-instantaneous solutions and assistance with everyday tasks, from creating meal plans to composing emails and mapping out monthly budgets. So, if AI can help with all of these tasks, can’t it also develop an estate plan for you? Let’s talk about it.
AI Uses in Estate Planning
AI is certainly gaining ground in the world of estate planning, both on the client and professional sides. Individuals are conducting their own estate planning research on AI platforms at home, while businesses are employing automated questionnaires and AI-driven chatbots to exchange information with clients. AI “voice synthesis” is even being used to recreate peoples’ voices for their loved ones after they pass. This technology opens the door to new possibilities for both clients and estate planning professionals alike. However, caution must be exercised. While it’s true that AI-powered tools like ChatGPT can provide generalized information about the estate planning process and can even generate templates of certain documents, AI alone should not be relied upon for your estate planning needs.
Here’s why.
What are the risks?
Due to the convenience and low cost of many AI programs, you may be tempted to rely solely on artificial intelligence for estate planning guidance, without consulting with professionals like attorneys or accountants. However, doing so can result in errors and misinformation, incorrect documentation, and a plan that does not carry out your wishes as you intend. AI systems operate on statistics, algorithms, and data available on the internet. These programs cannot think or discern as a human being can, and therefore can miss important nuances or even portray misinformation as fact. Such nuances and errors can have a significant impact on your estate plan—a single incorrect word, number, or legal oversight can completely alter how your assets are managed after you pass. An improperly executed will or trust can lead to confusion, legal battles, inheritance disputes, and tax consequences for your heirs. Beyond that, any personal information you submit to an AI model such as ChatGPT automatically becomes part of its database, risking the exposure of your confidential data to outside parties.
Why You Still Need Human Advisors
Estate planning professionals, such as accountants and attorneys:
- possess a deep knowledge and understanding of complex legal concepts and tax laws specific to your state
- have real experience working with a wide range of clients with unique situations
- meet with you to understand your goals, personal wishes, and family dynamics
- customize your estate plan to align with your specific intentions
- provide expert advice on legal and tax considerations
- know the right questions to ask to ensure that your needs and goals are met
- provide ongoing support throughout the estate planning process
- ensure your sensitive personal and financial information remains confidential
Partner with RBT for Estate Planning Guidance You Can Trust
While AI certainly offers some helpful benefits for both individuals and professionals throughout the estate planning process, this technology should be used as a supplement to the role of human advisors—not a substitute. RBT CPAs’ Trust, Estate, and Gift practice is here to take the guesswork out of estate planning. In conjunction with your attorney, our tax professionals are here to ensure your estate plan aligns with your financial goals and intentions. You can rely on our team to handle both your personal and business tax needs with the utmost professionalism and attention. Give RBT CPAs a call today and find out how we can be Remarkably Better Together.