A code of ethics is something that is useful to have if you intend to read Tarot cards for anyone other then yourself. Actually, it can be pretty useful to have if you are reading for yourself too. In your code of ethics you lay out just what rules you follow when you do your readings. Your code of ethics can include whether you will do relationship readings, a reminder to your clients to seek expert advice about legal and medical issues, your confidentiality statement, etc.

If you choose to perform readings professionally, it is wise to have a copy of your ethics posted where clients can easily see them. If it is not possible to post them, then at least have a printout of them handy, and ask each client to read them over before your session begins.

It is also worth noting that most, if not all, Tarot associations have a code of ethics that their members must subscribe too. The American Tarot Association, and their sister group the Canadian Tarot Association, promote the following ethics:

1. I will serve the best interests of my clients, conducting my professional activities without causing or intending to cause harm.
2. I will treat all my clients with equal respect, regardless of their origin, race, religion, gender, age, or sexual preference.
3. I will represent honestly my Tarot qualifications, including educational credentials and levels of certification.
4. I will keep confidential the names of clients and all information shared or discussed during readings, unless otherwise requested by the client or required by a court of law.
5. I will recommend clients consult a licensed professional for advice of a legal, financial, medical, or psychological nature that I am not qualified to provide. If trained in one of these areas, I will clearly differentiate between the tarot reading and any professional advice additionally provided.
6. I will respect my clients’ right to refuse or terminate their reading at any time, regardless of prior consent.
7. I recognize that all ATA members have the same rights and obligations, and I will always respect and honor my co-members.

As a former member of the ATA, these are the basis for my personal set of ethics. My complete code of ethics can be found here.

When writing your own set of ethics, keep in mind the code of ethics of any association you may belong to, the morals and ethics that guide your life, as well as the ethical teachings of your own faith. Don’t feel pressured to act contrary to your code of ethics if a client offers you money. Remember that your integrity should not be for sale, and that you should never do anything that you are uncomfortable with. It is equally important to be sure that your ethics make sense to you. Don’t include something just because you think you should. Be sure that each point resonates with your life and with your goals as a Tarot reader.