IRS Directory of Tax Return Preparers: Who Is Listed and How to Get In
- The IRS directory is a public search tool for finding preparers with credentials or the AFSP Record of Completion.
- It lists attorneys, CPAs, enrolled agents, and AFSP Record of Completion holders, among others.
- AFSP listing requires finishing the hours, an active PTIN, and the Circular 230 consent.
- Allow up to about 4 weeks after completion for your name to appear.
What is the IRS directory of tax return preparers?
It is a free public search on IRS.gov that lets taxpayers look up preparers who hold a professional credential or an Annual Filing Season Program Record of Completion. Taxpayers can search by name, state or ZIP code and check a preparer’s credential status before hiring them.
Who appears in the directory?
The directory includes attorneys, CPAs, enrolled agents, enrolled retirement plan agents, enrolled actuaries, and preparers holding a current AFSP Record of Completion. A preparer with only a PTIN and no credential or Record does not appear, which is why the listing is a useful marketing signal.
How does an AFSP participant get listed?
You complete the required hours for the season (15 for exempt preparers, 18 for non-exempt), hold an active PTIN, and consent to the Circular 230 duties. After that the IRS issues the Record of Completion and adds you to the directory. Read the steps in the Record of Completion explained.
How long until you show up?
Plan on up to roughly four weeks after your education is reported and your PTIN is in good standing. Delays are usually caused by an expired PTIN or hours that were reported late, so renew your PTIN first. More in PTIN required for the Record of Completion.
Is being in the directory required?
No. The AFSP is voluntary, and being listed is a benefit of earning the Record, not a legal requirement. See is the AFSP required?
Does the listing last forever?
No. The Record covers one filing season, so you must earn it again each year to stay listed. Details are in does the Record of Completion expire?
Why it matters for your practice
Clients who look you up can see your credential status, and the Record of Completion also gives limited representation rights, described in AFSP limited representation rights. These federal rules are identical in every state.
Next step: the 2026 Annual Federal Tax Refresher (AFTR) course or the AFSP & AFTR hub.
Tax IQ Academy is an IRS and CTEC approved provider of continuing education for tax professionals, offering AFSP, AFTR, and EA exam prep courses covering federal tax law, ethics, and practice management.