Top 10 Accounts Payable Clerk Certifications

Certifications are important for an accounts payable clerk in the job market because they demonstrate a level of competency and knowledge in the field. Having certifications shows employers that a job candidate is knowledgeable about the processes and procedures necessary to complete accounts payable tasks. Certifications also indicate that a potential employee has invested in their own professional development, which can be attractive to employers. Certifications can also give an accounts payable clerk an edge over other applicants who lack those credentials.

This article reviews some of the top certifications for Accounts Payable Clerks and explains how they can provide an accounts payable clerk with professional development and career advancement opportunities.

What are Accounts Payable Clerk Certifications?

Accounts payable clerk certification is a professional certification program that provides individuals with knowledge and skills related to the processing of accounts payable transactions. This certification is designed for those who are interested in working in the accounting field or looking to advance their current career. It covers topics such as purchasing, accounts receivable, accounts payable, payroll, financial statements, budgeting, and more. The certification can help individuals gain a better understanding of financial processes and increase their job prospects. Having this certification may also lead to higher pay scales and promotions within the accounting field. Additionally, it can provide employers with assurance that their staff has the necessary skills to handle accounts payable transactions accurately and efficiently.

Pro Tip: Make sure to complete all necessary accounts payable clerk certification requirements before applying for a job. This will demonstrate to potential employers that you are knowledgeable and prepared to perform the duties of an accounts payable clerk. Additionally, staying up-to-date on the latest industry trends and laws can help you excel in the field.

Related: What does an Accounts Payable Clerk do?

Top 10 Accounts Payable Clerk Certifications

Here’s our list of the best certifications available to Accounts Payable Clerks today.

1. Certified Accounts Payable Professional (CAPP)

Certified Accounts Payable Professional (CAPP) is a professional certification program offered by the Institute of Financial Operations, which recognizes individuals who demonstrate a high level of competency in accounts payable. The CAPP credential is designed to validate an individual’s knowledge and experience in accounts payable processes and procedures, as well as their ability to apply best practices in the field.

To become certified, applicants must pass an exam that covers topics such as accounts payable processes, vendor management, payment processing, internal controls, and financial reporting. The exam consists of 150 multiple-choice questions and must be completed within three hours.

The cost for the CAPP certification program is $595 for members of the Institute of Financial Operations and $695 for non-members. This fee includes access to a practice exam and study materials. Additionally, there are additional fees associated with re-taking the exam if needed.

In order to maintain your certification status, you must complete at least 20 continuing professional education credits every two years. These can be earned through attending conferences or seminars related to accounts payable or other finance topics.

2. Certified Accounts Payable Manager (CAPM)

Certified Accounts Payable Manager (CAPM) is a professional certification program that recognizes individuals who have demonstrated a comprehensive understanding of accounts payable management principles and practices. The CAPM program is administered by the Institute of Certified Professional Managers (ICPM).

The CAPM certification requires completion of an online assessment and submission of a portfolio demonstrating mastery of accounts payable management concepts. The assessment consists of 100 multiple-choice questions, which must be completed within two hours. The portfolio should include documents such as job descriptions, processes, procedures, policies, and other materials related to accounts payable management.

It typically takes around three months to complete the CAPM program. To get started, you will need to register for the exam on the ICPM website and pay the fee. The cost for the CAPM certification is $395 USD.

3. Certified Government Financial Manager (CGFM)

Certified Government Financial Manager (CGFM) is a professional certification program offered through the Association of Government Accountants (AGA). The CGFM certification is designed to recognize the expertise and knowledge of government financial managers. It is the only professional certification that focuses exclusively on government financial management.

The CGFM program consists of three exams: Governmental Environment, Governmental Accounting and Financial Reporting, and Governmental Budgeting and Fiscal Policy. To become certified, applicants must pass all three exams within a two-year period.

To get started, applicants must first create an account with AGA and pay the $100 application fee. Once accepted into the program, applicants will have access to study materials such as practice tests, study guides and online courses. Applicants must also complete at least 80 hours of relevant continuing professional education credits within five years prior to taking the exams.

Once all requirements are met, applicants can register for each exam individually by paying a $175 fee for each exam. After passing all three exams within two years, applicants will receive their CGFM certificate from AGA.

In total, it costs approximately $650 to become a Certified Government Financial Manager (CGFM). This cost includes the application fee ($100) and exam fees ($175 x 3). It may take up to two years to become certified depending on how quickly an applicant completes their studies and passes all three exams.

4. Certified Public Accountant (CPA)

A Certified Public Accountant (CPA) is a professional designation given to individuals who have met the educational, experience and examination requirements set by their state board of accountancy. CPAs are licensed by the state in which they practice to provide accounting services to the public. They are highly trained professionals who specialize in financial reporting, auditing, taxation, and other related areas.

In order to become a CPA, an individual must first meet the educational requirements set by their state board of accountancy. Generally, this includes completing at least 150 hours of college coursework with a concentration in accounting or business-related subjects. In addition, applicants must pass the Uniform CPA Examination administered by the American Institute of Certified Public Accountants (AICPA).

The amount of time it takes to become a CPA varies depending on an individual's educational background and experience level. For those without any prior college credits or accounting experience, it can take up to five years to obtain all of the necessary qualifications for licensure. However, those with prior education or experience may be able to complete the process more quickly.

Once an individual has met all of their state's educational requirements and passed the CPA exam, they must then pay a fee for licensing and registration with their state board of accountancy. The cost of licensure will vary from state to state but typically ranges between $100-$500.

After all of these steps have been completed, an individual can officially call themselves a Certified Public Accountant (CPA).

5. Chartered Global Management Accountant (CGMA)

Chartered Global Management Accountant (CGMA) is a professional designation that is awarded by the Association of International Certified Professional Accountants (AICPA). It recognizes individuals who have demonstrated the highest levels of expertise in management accounting and financial management. The CGMA designation is recognized globally and provides holders with access to a wide range of resources, including exclusive discounts on software, services, and educational opportunities.

To become a CGMA, you must first meet the eligibility requirements. These include having an undergraduate degree in accounting or finance, as well as two years of professional experience in management accounting or financial management. Once you have met these requirements, you can apply for the CGMA exam.

The CGMA exam consists of two parts: the CGMAT Knowledge Exam and the CGMAT Performance Exam. The Knowledge Exam tests your knowledge of international financial reporting standards, cost management principles, and strategic decision-making techniques. The Performance Exam tests your ability to apply these concepts to real-world scenarios. Both exams are administered online and take approximately four hours each to complete.

Once you have passed both exams, you will be eligible for the CGMA designation. You will also need to pay an annual membership fee to maintain your status as a CGMA holder. This fee varies depending on where you live but typically ranges from $150-$200 per year.

Overall, it takes approximately six months from start to finish to become a Chartered Global Management Accountant (CGMA).

6. Certified Internal Auditor (CIA)

Certified Internal Auditor (CIA) is a professional certification offered by the Institute of Internal Auditors (IIA). It is the only globally recognized designation for internal auditors and is designed to demonstrate an individual’s proficiency in the field. The CIA credential signifies that an individual has achieved a level of competency in the areas of risk management, control, and governance.

The CIA credential requires candidates to pass three examinations: Essentials of Internal Auditing, Practice of Internal Auditing, and Business Knowledge for Internal Auditing. These exams cover topics such as audit planning and execution, assurance services, business analysis, financial management, information systems auditing, and more.

In order to become certified as a CIA, individuals must meet certain eligibility requirements. This includes having at least two years of professional experience in internal auditing or related fields. Candidates must also be members of the IIA and have completed its required education program.

The process of becoming certified as a CIA typically takes about six months from start to finish. During this time, candidates must complete all three exams within 18 months or less. Additionally, they must fulfill any other requirements set forth by the IIA before they can receive their certification.

The cost to become certified as a CIA varies depending on which country you are located in and whether you are taking the exams online or in-person. Generally speaking, it costs around $2,000 USD for all three exams plus any additional fees associated with membership or education programs.

7. Certified Information Systems Auditor (CISA)

Certified Information Systems Auditor (CISA) is an internationally recognized certification that validates a professional’s expertise in the field of information systems auditing, control, and security. It is administered by the Information Systems Audit and Control Association (ISACA) and is considered to be one of the most sought-after certifications for IT professionals.

The CISA exam consists of 200 multiple choice questions that are divided into five domains: The Process of Auditing Information Systems, Governance and Management of IT, Information Systems Acquisition, Development, and Implementation, Information Systems Operations, Maintenance, and Support; Protection of Information Assets; and Business Continuity & Disaster Recovery Planning. In order to pass the exam, candidates must obtain a score of at least 450 out of 800 points.

It typically takes about 6 months to prepare for the CISA exam. Candidates should study topics such as risk management practices, internal controls over information systems, system development life cycle processes, network security principles and practices, business continuity planning strategies, etc.

In order to take the CISA exam, you must first register with ISACA online or via mail. The cost for taking the exam is $575 USD for members ($750 USD for non-members). Additionally there may be other costs associated with studying for the exam such as purchasing books or enrolling in a training course.

8. Certified Management Accountant (CMA)

Certified Management Accountant (CMA) is a professional certification for accountants and financial professionals who specialize in management accounting. It is offered by the Institute of Management Accountants (IMA). The CMA certification is designed to demonstrate advanced knowledge and skills in financial planning, analysis, control, decision support, and professional ethics.

It typically takes between 12-18 months to complete the CMA program. To become certified, candidates must first pass a two-part exam administered by the IMA. The exam consists of four sections: Financial Planning, Performance and Control; Financial Decision Making; Strategic Financial Management; and Professional Ethics. After passing the exam, candidates must then meet IMA's experience requirements which include having at least two years of professional experience in management accounting or financial management.

The cost of becoming a CMA varies depending on the country you are located in. Generally speaking, it will cost around $500-$1,000 to register for the CMA program plus an additional fee for taking the exam. Additionally, there may be other costs associated with studying for the exam such as purchasing study materials or taking review courses.

9. Chartered Financial Analyst (CFA)

Chartered Financial Analyst (CFA) is a professional designation offered by the CFA Institute, a global association of investment professionals. It is generally considered to be the highest standard of competence for investment professionals and is recognized as such by employers around the world. The CFA designation requires rigorous study and examinations in areas such as quantitative methods, economics, financial statement analysis, corporate finance, portfolio management, and ethical and professional standards.

It typically takes four years to complete all three levels of the CFA Program. Each level includes an exam that must be passed before progressing to the next level. The exams are offered twice per year in June and December.

To become a CFA charterholder, you must have at least four years of qualified work experience in investment decision-making activities or pass all three levels of the CFA Program exams within four years. You also need to become a member of the CFA Institute and agree to abide by its Code of Ethics and Standards of Professional Conduct.

The cost for each exam varies depending on when you register but typically ranges from $700-$1,000 per exam plus additional fees for membership and materials.

10. Certified Financial Planner (CFP)

Certified Financial Planner (CFP) is a professional designation given by the Certified Financial Planner Board of Standards (CFP Board). It is a voluntary certification that demonstrates to the public that an individual has met certain education, examination, experience and ethics requirements.

It typically takes three to four years to become a CFP. The process begins with completing college-level coursework in financial planning topics such as investments, insurance, taxes, retirement planning and estate planning. After completing the required coursework, individuals must pass the CFP Certification Examination administered by the CFP Board.

To be eligible for the exam, applicants must have completed at least three years of full-time financial planning related work experience or have a bachelor’s degree from an accredited college or university. Additionally, applicants must complete an ethics course and agree to adhere to CFP Board’s Code of Ethics and Professional Responsibility.

The cost of becoming a CFP can vary depending on where you live and which educational program you choose. The cost of tuition for required courses ranges from $2,500-$5,000 per year; however, some employers may offer tuition reimbursement or other forms of assistance. In addition to tuition costs, there are also fees associated with taking the CFP Certification Examination which range from $695-$795 depending on when you take it.

Do You Really Need a Accounts Payable Clerk Certificate?

Whether or not you need an Accounts Payable Clerk Certificate depends on the job and company you are applying for. Many times, employers will require a certificate in order to be considered for the position. In some cases, however, prior experience in accounts payable may be sufficient and a certificate may not be necessary.

If you are looking to enter into the field of accounts payable, having a certificate can give you an advantage over other applicants who do not have one. It shows that you have taken the time to learn about the specific duties of an accounts payable clerk and understand what is expected of you in this role. Additionally, it can provide evidence that you are knowledgeable and capable when it comes to managing finances.

In conclusion, while having an Accounts Payable Clerk Certificate is beneficial, it is not always required for every job or company. Ultimately it is up to each individual applicant to decide whether they want to pursue obtaining a certificate or if their experience alone will suffice.

Related: Accounts Payable Clerk Resume Examples

FAQs About Accounts Payable Clerk Certifications

1. What is an Accounts Payable Clerk Certification?

An Accounts Payable Clerk Certification is a credential that demonstrates knowledge of accounts payable processes, procedures, and best practices. It is designed to help professionals demonstrate their expertise in this field.

2. What are the benefits of an Accounts Payable Clerk Certification?

Having an Accounts Payable Clerk Certification can give you an edge in the job market, helping you stand out from other applicants. It also shows employers that you have a deep understanding of accounts payable processes, making you a more valuable asset to any organization.

3. How do I get certified as an Accounts Payable Clerk?

In order to become certified as an Accounts Payable Clerk, you must first meet certain educational requirements and then pass a certification exam administered by a recognized certification body such as the Institute of Certified Professional Managers (ICPM).

4. How long does it take to get certified as an Accounts Payable Clerk?

The amount of time it takes to complete certification varies depending on your level of experience and how much study time you put into preparing for the exam. Generally speaking, most people can expect to complete their certification within six months or less if they are diligent about studying and preparing for the exam.

5. Is there any ongoing education or training required after becoming certified?

Yes – all certifications require renewal every few years in order to remain valid. To renew your credentials, you will need to demonstrate continued professional development through additional courses or workshops related to accounts payable processes and procedures.