NATP adds two credentials for tax pros

The National Association of Tax Professionals has introduced a pair of new credentials: the Accredited Individual Tax Professional and the Advanced Accredited Individual Tax Professional. 

The AITP validates foundational competence in preparing federal individual tax preparation, while AAITP recognizes advanced technical competence in applying federal individual tax law to more complex individual tax matters and advisory work. NATP membership is not required to pursue the credentials. 

NATP membership isn't required to qualify for either of the credentials. Professionals can earn the credential through an exam, with optional self-paced study modules and practice tests available to support preparation and readiness.

The new tax credentials are available across the country to tax pros who prepare Form 1040 returns and want formal recognition of their knowledge and technical competence in federal individual income taxation.

"Individual tax preparation is at the core of the work many tax professionals do every day," said NATP CEO Scott Artman in a statement Thursday. "These credentials give preparers a meaningful way to demonstrate their competence, strengthen their credibility and show a continued commitment to professional excellence." 

The launch of the new individual tax credentials comes on the heels of the introduction of the NATP's representation credentials earlier this year and represents the next phase of the organization's broader credentialing framework through the Center for Professional Excellence.