> If it stays at arm's length, and if it can "read only", then I am OK with it and actually somewhat pleased with it.

This isn't actually about AI. it's just classic human psychology.

You’ve had a rock-solid workflow for 25 years, so it makes total sense to be cautious and reject features you don't need.

Right now, keeping it at "arm's length" and "read-only" feels safe. But that's usually just phase one. Once that initial trust is established, those boundaries naturally start to melt away. Give it a couple of tax seasons, and you’ll probably find yourself wanting it to take on more of the heavy lifting.