How much do tax professionals charge in 2025? Insights from NATP’s Fee Study

Every two years, NATP surveys tax professionals nationwide to learn what they charge for common tax services. The 2025 Fee Study is now here, and it provides exclusive insight into what tax pros charge, why fees vary and how rates differ across regions.

This research is one of the most valuable benchmarks available to the profession, and NATP members get full access to the complete study.

What are the main takeaways from the 2025 Fee Study?

The 2025 Fee Study shows that most tax professionals charge within a common range depending on return complexity. For example:

• Most tax preparers set 1040 pricing using a structured approach. Nearly half establish a minimum fee and then adjust the price based on the complexity or value provided.
• Pricing is influenced by credentials, market size, firm focus, and experience. On average, EAs and CPAs charge more than their non-credentialed peers.
• Most are adjusting prices regularly and transparently. 83% raise fees every one to two years, typically by 6-10%

Why do tax preparation fees vary so much?

Fees differ for several reasons:

• Return complexity – more schedules and forms increase time and cost
• Geography – regional economic conditions influence pricing
• Experience and specialization – preparers with niche expertise or decades of practice often charge more
• Firm size – larger firms may price differently than solo practices.

These insights help tax pros compare their own pricing strategies against peers.

How do fees vary by region?

The Fee Study breaks down data state by state, showing where tax preparation costs are higher or lower than the national average. For example:

• Preparers in the Northeast report higher average fees for itemized returns.
• The Midwest shows some of the lowest average fees in the nation.
• Urban areas tend to have higher fees than rural ones across all regions.

This regional insight is especially helpful for pros evaluating their pricing competitiveness.

Why does this study matter for tax professionals?

Because NATP’s Fee Study is based on original nationwide survey data, it gives tax pros reliable benchmarks for setting fees, justifying increases, and explaining pricing to clients. It also helps identify regional trends and anticipate shifts in the marketplace.

No other organization provides a resource this comprehensive, making it a cornerstone for practice management and profitability planning.

Where can you access NATP’s full Fee Study?

This blog highlights just a small portion of the 2025 Fee Study. NATP members have exclusive access to the complete report, including:

• Detailed state-by-state comparisons
• Median and average fees for a wide range of forms and services
• Insights into pricing strategies and trends over time

Not a member yet? Join NATP today to access the full Fee Study and hundreds of other practice resources that support your success.

Key takeaway

The 2025 Fee Study shows what tax professionals across the U.S. are charging and why. By comparing your own fees to these benchmarks, you can ensure your pricing is fair and aligns with your business goals.