In this edition of B2B FinTech @Scale, we speak with the team behind Deduction, a US-based tax platform redefining how individuals and sole proprietors access professional tax services. Founded by Sai Dhanak and Jonathan Kieliszak, Deduction combines AI-driven efficiency with CPA-backed expertise to deliver a white-glove tax experience—without the traditional price tag or friction.
In this Q&A, the team shares how they’re addressing the growing CPA shortage, why consumer trust in AI is accelerating, and how the future of tax filing will balance automation with human oversight.
1. Tell us about yourself / your co-founder(s).
Deduction was founded by Sai Dhanak and Jonathan Kieliszak. Jonathan comes from a family of CPAs and has deep expertise in tax compliance and advisory. Sai’s background is in scaling technology companies, where he experienced firsthand the challenges of tax planning and compliance. Together, they set out to democratize access to professional tax services by combining AI with CPA expertise. Our tax team is led by Casey Epton, CPA, who ensures our tax guidance meets the highest standards.
2. Who are your target customers, and what problem do you address for them?
We serve individuals and sole proprietors in the US who want a white-glove, CPA-backed tax filing experience—without the high cost or hassle of traditional firms. Our clients are often busy professionals, entrepreneurs, and those with complex tax situations who want to maximize deductions, minimize errors, and have year-round access to expert advice.
3. What is your product / solution, who do you compete with, and what is your USP?
Deduction offers an annual Filing Plan that includes unlimited tax Q&A, CPA reviews of high-impact decisions, and a 100% accuracy guarantee. Our unique blend of AI and human expertise delivers the precision of a top-tier accounting firm at half to one-third the price. Unlike DIY software, we provide hands-on support and CPA review, and unlike traditional firms, we’re available 24/7 and year-round.
4. What is your current stage and traction, and how can our network help you in the next 6-12 months?
We’re growing rapidly, with a strong base of satisfied clients and a proven and compliant operational model for filing taxes in any state and of course, federally. In terms of your network — we see partnerships with fintech platforms including banks and insurance companies as a key driver of growth and mutual value addition.
5. How do you go to market? How are banks or insurers working with you (or can work with you)?
We go to market directly to consumers and through partnerships. Banks and insurers can integrate Deduction as a value-added service, helping their clients with tax compliance, planning, and education. Taylor, CPAI can communicate through any channel that a human can, whether that’s email, chat, text, call, Slack, etc.
6. Any relevant industry trends or market shifts we should be watching?
75% of CPAs are approaching retirement which is exacerbating the shortage of CPAs. This is going to lead to increased prices, slow responses, and CPAs continuing to turn away new work. On a macro level, we are seeing Millennials and Gen Z become increasingly trusting of AI, and in many cases, integrating it deeply into their lives. As a result, we believe that over the next two years, consumers will expect that AI can do their taxes, as long as their is some human fallback.
7. What’s on your bookshelf or podcast app? Your favourite place for a coffee or a drink?
Conscious Leadership by Klemp, Chapman, and Dethmer. Our CEO can often be caught drinking Masala Chai in morning standups.
As the tax industry faces structural talent shortages and rising client expectations, Deduction positions itself at the intersection of technology, trust, and professional expertise. By pairing AI with year-round CPA access, the company is not only responding to current market gaps but also anticipating how the next generation of consumers expects tax services to work.
A clear example of how fintech innovation continues to reshape even the most traditional corners of financial services.