"Tech Finance" with Sasha Orloff: B2B Fintech | AI | Finance Tech E59: Why AI Tax Tools Fail the QSBS Test, with Nick Abouzeid of Rivet
Nov 12, 2025
Discover the innovative approach Rivet takes in modern tax services, combining expert practitioners with cutting-edge software. Hear about the challenges faced by traditional firms and how Rivet's model enhances responsiveness and efficiency. Nick Abouzeid shares insights on the interplay between AI and human judgment in tax work, the reasons behind raising venture capital, and the importance of international hiring for quality service. Learn why clients are switching to Rivet for improved support and how the firm’s fixed-pricing model is transforming the industry.
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Modern Tax Firm Built From Scratch
- Rivet is a modern tax firm built on a proprietary stack to serve founders and complex clients.
- They combine senior ex–Big Four accountants with custom software to deliver faster, more accurate service.
Legacy Stacks Drive Poor Experience
- Most tax firms use legacy stacks stitched together from large incumbents and deliver poor client experience.
- Building tooling that makes accountants far more productive creates a differentiated, delightful service.
Match Service To Complexity
- Do not recommend premium human-led tax service for simple W-2/Robinhood filers who have minimal optimization opportunities.
- Use software-first solutions for straightforward returns and reserve human firms for complexity.