---
title: "What is Virtual assistant? | Chargezen"
description: "A virtual assistant is software, or a remote person, that handles routine tasks such as scheduling, email and simple requests on someone's behalf."
url: "https://chargezen.com/glossary/virtual-assistant"
lang: "en"
---

Canonical URL: https://chargezen.com/glossary/virtual-assistant

# Virtual assistant

Virtual assistant (AI virtual assistant)

Support

A virtual assistant is software, or a remote person, that handles routine tasks such as scheduling, email and simple requests on someone's behalf.

## What is Virtual assistant?

The term has two meanings. A **human virtual assistant** is a remote contractor who handles admin work. An **AI virtual assistant** is software that answers questions and completes simple tasks, usually for one person, such as setting reminders or drafting replies. **Where it stops:** most virtual assistants help a person do their work. An **AI agent** or **digital employee** takes whole tasks off the team, uses business systems on its own and follows rules about what needs approval.

## Example

For example, a founder's virtual assistant sorts their inbox and drafts replies for them to send. A support agent for the same store answers customers directly and changes their orders within the store's rules.

## Why Virtual assistant Matters

Knowing the difference helps you choose between help for one person and an agent that takes work off the whole team.

## Virtual assistant FAQ

Is a virtual assistant the same as an AI agent?

Not usually. A virtual assistant helps one person with simple tasks. An AI agent is given a goal and tools, and completes multi-step work on its own within set rules.

Can a virtual assistant answer my customers?

Some can answer simple questions. For order changes, returns and subscriptions, you need an agent connected to your store data with customer verification and approvals.

## Explore More Terms

Browse our complete glossary of e-commerce and subscription terms.

[View Full Glossary](https://chargezen.com/glossary)