# AI agent for bookkeeping: what it can do and what to keep for your accountant

An AI agent can sort receipts, suggest categories, match transactions, and chase missing paperwork for a small business. What to hand it, what stays with you or your accountant, and a safe 6-step setup.

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## Steps

1. **Give it read-only bank access first.** It can see transactions without being able to pay anyone. See connect only what you need.
2. **Keep a separate business account.** Mixing personal and business spending makes every tool worse. A business bank account and an EIN (employer identification number, the federal tax ID for a business) keep things clean; Formation Lane covers that setup.
3. **Let it suggest, you approve.** Categories and matches are proposals until you or your bookkeeper accept them. See review before place.
4. **Write your category rules down.** A short list such as “software subscriptions go to Software” gives the agent something to follow and you something to check against.
5. **Review weekly, close monthly.** Ten minutes a week on its suggestions; a proper month-end check with your accountant.
6. **Keep the record.** Make sure every change is logged in the accounting app. See AI agent audit logs.

## FAQ

### Can an AI agent do my bookkeeping?

It can do much of the first pass: reading receipts, suggesting categories, matching transactions, and flagging gaps. A person should still review and approve, and an accountant should handle taxes.

### Is it safe to connect an AI agent to my bank?

Start with read-only access so it can see transactions but not move money. Never give it your main banking login.

### Will an AI agent replace my accountant?

No. It reduces the tedious work, but tax filings, advice, and sign-off still need an accountable person.

### What should I never let a bookkeeping agent do alone?

Pay bills, move money, file tax returns, or run payroll.

### How accurate are AI bookkeeping agents?

Good on routine, repeat transactions and weaker on unusual ones. That is why every suggestion should be reviewed before it is final.