Accredited Tax Professional in Representation
The ATPR credential recognizes practitioners who have mastered the skills necessary to represent clients before the IRS on routine post-filing matters.
The representation credentials offered through the National Association of Tax Professionals are designed for professionals who work directly with taxpayers facing issues before the Internal Revenue Service. These credentials validate practical and advanced competencies in handling audits, collections, penalty relief, offers in compromise and administrative appeals, while upholding ethical standards and taxpayer rights.
NATP credentials are built through a rigorous standards-based process that ensures credibility, transparency and recognition within the tax profession. The designations are an essential component of NATP’s Center for Professional Excellence, helping elevate the standards of taxpayer representation across the industry.
The two designations – Accredited Tax Professional in Representation (ATPR) and Advanced Accredited Tax Professional in Representation (AATPR) – provide a clear pathway for professional growth. Each recognizes practitioners who demonstrate competence, integrity and commitment to ethical taxpayer advocacy.
Advanced Accredited Tax Professional in Representation
The AATPR credential represents a higher level of proficiency in representation, with holders possessing deep technical expertise.
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.
Maintaining your credential
Renewal and continuing education
Both the ATPR and AATPR credentials are valid for one calendar year, beginning Jan. 1 and ending Dec. 31. Credential holders must:
- Maintain an active IRS-recognized credential in good standing
- Complete an annual attestation confirming compliance with NATP’s Code of Ethics
- Pay the annual renewal fee
Continuing education required to maintain an IRS-recognized designation satisfies NATP’s CPE requirement. NATP does not require additional CPE reporting for these credentials.
Ethics, conduct and confidentiality
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.
Questions and appeals
Candidates may submit questions or appeals within 60 days of the exam. Requests must include:
- Full name and contact information
- Credential ID, if applicable
- A clear explanation of the concern or appeal
- Supporting documentation
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.
Summary
The ATPR and AATPR credentials represent NATP’s commitment to elevating professional standards in taxpayer representation. These designations validate practical knowledge, ethical conduct and technical competence, distinguishing credential holders as trusted advocates who deliver accurate and effective representation for their clients.