NATP’s individual tax credentials recognize professionals who demonstrate proficiency in federal individual income taxation at both core and advanced levels. These credentials validate a professional’s ability to interpret IRS rules and apply individual tax law accurately. They promote ethical practice and professional advancement by applying tax knowledge across a wide range of real-world scenarios, client situations and compliance challenges.
The Accredited Individual Tax Professional (AITP) and Advanced Accredited Individual Tax Professional (AAITP) credentials are powerful indicators of professional competence in individual taxation. Earning either, or both, enhances credibility with clients and peers while supporting growth in a Form 1040-focused practice.
These credentials distinguish holders as trusted professionals committed to technical excellence, ethical standards and the delivery of high-quality, reliable tax services.
Accredited Individual Tax Professional
The Accredited Individual Tax Professional (AITP) credential recognizes tax professionals who demonstrate proficiency in federal individual taxation and the ability to confidently handle common taxpayer scenarios.
Advanced Accredited Individual Tax Professional
The Advanced Accredited Individual Tax Professional (AAITP) credential recognizes advanced proficiency in individual taxation, with holders demonstrating the ability to navigate complex tax matters and apply the Internal Revenue Code accurately.
Tax professionals may earn an NATP credential by demonstrating their knowledge through the credential exam. For those who want structured preparation, NATP also offers optional, self-paced study modules aligned to each credential’s exam blueprint. This flexible approach allows experienced practitioners to validate existing expertise while supporting those who want additional guidance before testing.
Both the AITP and AAITP credentials are valid for one calendar year, beginning Jan. 1 and ending Dec. 31. Credential holders must:
Credential holders, even if not members of NATP, are required to comply with all applicable membership and conduct requirements established by the association. These include adherence to NATP’s Code of Ethics and Standards of Professional Conduct, as well as the policies set forth in the NATP bylaws.
NATP protects confidential information related to applicants, candidates and credential holders, including personal data, exam submissions and results. Names of credential holders may be publicly listed, but individual scores are not disclosed.
Candidates may submit questions or appeals within 60 days of the exam. Requests must include:
Send all requests to: [email protected].
NATP reviews submissions in accordance with established policy and provides a written response. To protect exam integrity, NATP does not release exam questions or individual item responses.
The AITP and AAITP credentials represent NATP’s commitment to elevating professional standards in individual taxation. These credentials validate practical knowledge, ethical conduct and technical proficiency, distinguishing credential holders as trusted professionals who deliver high-quality tax preparation and advisory services for their clients.