Whether you’re new to tax preparation or an experienced professional, joining a professional tax association can help you stay informed, build credibility, and advance your career. Additional benefits include:
- Networking opportunities with other tax professionals
- Continuing education and conferences, often at a discount
- Access to industry publications
- Additional professional credentials and certifications
Here’s an overview of some of the most well-respected associations for tax professionals:
| Association | Membership eligibility | Annual membership cost | Key benefit |
| American Institute of Certified Public Accountants (AICPA) | CPAs, CPA candidates, and students pursuing the CPA credential | Starting at $360 | CPA-specific tools, guidance, and discounted Continuing Education |
| Latino Tax Professionals Association (LTPA) | Tax professionals | Starting at $222 | Bilingual tax education in English and Spanish |
| National Association of Enrolled Agents (NAEA) | IRS Enrolled Agents | $305 | Access to active EA community discussion |
| National Association of Tax Professionals (NATP) | All tax professionals | Starting at $150 | Practical tax research, publications, and webinars |
| National Conference of CPA Practitioners (NCCPAP) | CPAs | $425 | Networking with CPA firm owners and small practices |
| National Society of Accountants (NSA) | Professionals meeting experience, education, or certification requirements | Starting at $95 | Enhanced professional credibility and industry recognition |
| National Society of Tax Professionals (NSTP) | All tax professionals | Starting at $149 | Tax Helpline support and for resolving tax questions |
1. American Institute of Certified Public Accountants (AICPA)
The American Institute of Certified Public Accountants (AICPA) is one of the largest and most influential professional associations in accounting. Membership options are available for CPAs, CPA candidates, and students pursuing the CPA credential. Members gain access to CPA focused resources, professional guidance, continuing education opportunities, and industry advocacy. Annual membership dues vary according to your industry and career stage.
2. Latino Tax Professionals Association (LTPA)
The Latino Tax Professionals Association (LTPA) offers continuing education courses in English and Spanish, making it a leading provider of bilingual tax education in the United States. VIP membership costs $222 per year and includes benefits such as Ask A Tax Pro access and federal tax education courses. LTPA also hosts one of the largest annual events for tax professionals.
TaxSlayer Pro has partnered with LTPA to provide additional education opportunities for tax preparers. TaxSlayer Pro customers receive a 20% discount on LTPA educational resources.
3. National Association of Enrolled Agents (NAEA)
The National Association of Enrolled Agents (NAEA) is the leading professional association for IRS Enrolled Agents. In addition to advocacy for the EA profession, members gain access to continuing education, industry publications, professional networking opportunities, and an active online community of tax professionals. Standard membership is $305 per year, with discounted membership options for new EAs, aspiring EAs, students, instructors, and retired EAs.
4. National Association of Tax Professionals (NATP)
One of the largest and most-well known tax associations, the National Association of Tax Professionals (NATP) is open to tax professionals of all experience levels and credentials. Membership fees start at $150 per year and provide access to tax education, industry updates, publications, and professional resources designed to help preparers apply tax code to real-world client situations. Members also benefit from regular webinars and education discounts, making it a valuable resource for your professional development.
5. National Conference of CPA Practitioners (NCCPAP)
Like the AICPA, the National Conference of CPA Practitioners (NCCPAP) is specifically for CPAs. The organization is particularly valuable for sole practitioners and small firm owners, offering opportunities to connect with peers who face similar practice management, tax, and client-service challenges. In addition to continuing education and annual events, members gain access to an online community that supports networking and knowledge sharing among other CPAs. Membership dues are $425 per year.
6. National Society of Accountants (NSA)
The National Society of Accountants (NSA) is committed to helping taxpayers find reputable and qualified tax and accounting professionals. Membership is available to tax and accounting professionals, with options tailored to different experience levels and career stages. In addition to enhancing your professional credibility, NSA offers educational resources, industry updates, and networking opportunities for its members. Standard membership dues are $295 per year.
7. National Society of Tax Professionals (NSTP)
All tax professionals can join the National Society of Tax Professionals (NSTP). Full membership is$199 per year and includes access to tax education, industry updates, and member discounts. Members also receive access to NSTP’s Tax Helpline, which can help answer technical tax questions that arise during tax season. Full membership includes six Tax Helpline calls per year. Higher tier membership options provide additional benefits and support.
Joining a professional tax preparer association can be a valuable investment in your career. Whether you’re looking for continuing education, technical support, industry advocacy, networking opportunities, or specialized resources, these organizations can help you stay informed and grow your expertise in a continually changing industry.
