Atlanta, November 10, 2026 / PRNewswire / -- One of the leading comprehensive accounting and consulting firms in the United States, Bennett Thrasher, today released its five predictions for the accounting industry in 2027. Managing Partner and Chief Executive Officer Jeff Call expects that the responsible adoption of artificial intelligence ( AI ), enhanced data security, changing talent requirements, uncertainties in economic and tax policies, and the growing demand for professional consulting services will collectively shape the way accounting firms operate in the coming year and their support for clients.
Call combined with Bennett Thrasher's experience in adopting emerging technologies and providing consulting services to cross-industry enterprises, indicates that in the future, companies will need to strike a balance between technology-driven efficiency and the professional judgment, safeguard measures, and customer relationships that are always indispensable in the accounting industry.
"In 2027, it will be up to accounting firms to responsibly adopt AI while still maintaining the human judgment and professional capabilities that clients rely on," said the managing partner of Bennett Thrasher and also CEO Jeff Call. " AI will continue to transform our industry, but firms must verify its outputs, protect client information, and provide advice that clients can trust and understand."
Bennett Thrasher's Five Predictions for the Accounting Industry in 2027
AI Governance and data security will become competitive differentiators for accounting firms
As accounting firms expand their use of AI, they will face greater pressure to protect client data and demonstrate that they have responsible oversight mechanisms in place. Clients will increasingly want to know how firms safeguard confidential information, including whether their data is used to train large language models.
Firms that are able to combine innovation with clear safeguard measures and transparent communication are more likely to maintain client trust. Bennett Thrasher has adopted a prudent approach towards AI, protecting client and company information by restricting data access and imposing system constraints.
AI will reshape accounting positions, increasing the demand for human judgment and talent development
AI is helping Bennett Thrasher to reduce the time that junior employees spend on routine numerical tasks, thereby giving them an earlier opportunity to develop their analytical and consulting skills. However, efficiency cannot replace critical thinking and accounting expertise: professionals still must verify the information generated by AI, identify errors, and explain complex financial concepts in a way that clients can understand.
As the firm adjusts its strategy, recruitment and training will place increasing emphasis on AI capabilities, as well as critical thinking and sound professional judgment.
Accounting firms will play a more important role in the implementation of client AI.
As enterprises gradually move beyond the AI trial phase, they will need support to establish appropriate control mechanisms and integrate the technology into efficient work processes that support business goals. Accounting firms with the right professional capabilities can help clients transition from isolated AI pilots to coordinated implementations.
Bennett Thrasher As we can see, the demand for consulting services that help clients move towards controlled, enterprise-level AI is on the rise. The company expects this trend to continue and is developing a service that combines consulting with the establishment of centralized platforms for coordinating AI tools, which has the potential to save clients dozens to hundreds of hours per week.
Inflation, tariff changes, and tax policy alterations will make business planning more complex.
In 2027, inflation and tariffs will continue to put pressure on certain businesses, especially manufacturers, construction companies, and organizations that rely heavily on imported goods. These factors will affect customers' costs, profit margins, and investment decisions.
Tax policies will also add another layer of variability. As policymakers consider changes to tax laws and budget priorities after the mid-term elections, businesses need to understand the potential financial impacts. Accounting firms will play an important role in helping clients track progress, assess potential effects, and prepare for different scenarios.
The demand for professional consulting services will expand the role of accounting firms.
Enterprises facing complex financial, operational, and technical decisions will increasingly seek support from accounting firms that go beyond traditional auditing and tax services. Transaction consulting, risk consulting, technical consulting, and outsourced accounting services can all help businesses overcome challenges and make informed decisions.
The growth of Bennett Thrasher reflects this trend: its consulting business has grown by approximately 22% since the beginning of the year, while traditional auditing and tax services have seen growth in the single digits. Transaction consulting, risk consulting, technical services, and outsourced accounting are among its fastest-growing businesses.
For Bennett Thrasher, these predictions highlight the importance of continuously adjusting the company's approach in technology, talent development, and consulting services to help customers cope with the ever-changing business environment.
Bennett Thrasher provides services to multiple industries including construction, real estate, catering, technology, manufacturing, and professional services. It focuses on offering integrated tax, auditing, and consulting support to mid-sized markets and corporate clients, as well as individuals with complex tax planning needs. For more information, please visit btcpa.net.
About Bennett Thrasher
For over 45 years, Bennett Thrasher has been providing strategic guidance and professional services to businesses and individuals through tax, auditing, consulting, and outsourcing solutions. Its people-oriented approach has positioned the company among the largest and fastest-growing certified public accounting and consulting firms in the United States. In 2024 and 2025, it was consecutively recognized in Inside Public Accounting ( IPA )’s “ Best of the Best CPA firm ” list, and for the tenth consecutive year, it made it onto the top 100 list of Accounting Today’s Top. Headquartered in Atlanta, the company also has offices in Dallas and Denver. Bennett Thrasher is an active member of DFK International , Leading Edge Alliance , and IR Global , and leverages its deep local knowledge and international network to provide clients with comprehensive solutions with a global perspective.
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