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Most U.S. adults say AI has a role to play in a number of high-stakes tasks, including weather forecasting, developing new medicines and rooting out criminals, according to a recent Pew Research Center survey<\/a>.<\/p>\n But what about using the technology to improve your personal finances? According to a NerdWallet survey conducted online by The Harris Poll in October 2025, the answer depends on who you ask.<\/p>\n About half (48%) of Americans say using AI will have a positive impact on their personal finances while the other 52% disagree, according to the NerdWallet survey. Look closer at the data, though, and you\u2019ll find pockets of greater optimism and pockets of greater pessimism.<\/p>\n The following groups are more likely to see an upside in using AI for personal finances:<\/p>\n So who\u2019s right? It depends.<\/p>\n In general, AI can be a useful starting point to ask general purpose questions, to brainstorm and to troubleshoot ideas. If you\u2019re in a rut thinking about an open-ended question, like where to go on your next vacation, it\u2019s an easy way to get a new perspective or sort through your options.<\/p>\n However, using AI can be risky. \u201cFake it till you make it\u201d seems baked into its digital DNA, as it seems unable to say \u201cI\u2019m not sure\u201d when that would clearly be the best response. That swollen sense of confidence makes for funny memes about AI stumbles, but, for people seeking advice about their finances, it can lead to real damage. In other words, don\u2019t place your trust in AI the same way we\u2019ve let Google Maps replace paper maps. AI can quickly get you to the doorstep of a decision, but don\u2019t cross the threshold without the additional confirmation from expert, trustworthy sources.<\/p>\n Here are a few common scenarios and what helpful \u2014 and dubious \u2014 prompts might look like.<\/p>\n Understanding your workplace\u2019s retirement plans<\/p>\n Imagine you\u2019re choosing what funds to invest in through your employer\u2019s 401(k)<\/a>. AI can be a useful partner if you\u2019re asking general questions, but be wary of using it to make investment decisions. For informed advice that takes into account the totality of your financial situation, work with a financial advisor<\/a>.<\/p>\n Avoid prompts that ask AI to suggest what\u2019s best for you, like:<\/p>\n Consider prompts that help you with general background:<\/p>\n Doing your taxes<\/p>\n Taxes can be notoriously complex. In the thick of filing season, you might be tempted to ask for advice about your return. Leave those questions for professionals. \u201cMy AI told me it was OK\u201d is not going to work if you\u2019re audited<\/a>.<\/p>\n Avoid prompts that suggest taking a specific course of action, like:<\/p>\n Consider prompts that answer low-stakes questions, like:<\/p>\n Reviewing your spending<\/p>\n\n
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