Top 10 Accounts Receivable Clerk Certifications

Certifications are important for an accounts receivable clerk in the job market because they demonstrate the individual’s knowledge and expertise in the field. For example, a Certified Accounts Receivable Professional (CARP) certification demonstrates that the individual has a comprehensive understanding of accounting principles and practices related to accounts receivable. This certification is recognized by employers as a sign of professionalism and dedication to the field. Additionally, certifications can help an accounts receivable clerk stand out from other applicants when applying for jobs, as employers will be more likely to hire someone with professional credentials.

The purpose of this article is to provide an overview of the top certifications for Accounts Receivable Clerks and explain how they can help to advance their career.

What are Accounts Receivable Clerk Certifications?

Accounts receivable clerk certification is a type of professional certification that demonstrates a person’s knowledge and expertise in the field of accounts receivable. It is designed to help those who work in accounts receivable departments to gain a better understanding of the processes involved and become more efficient and effective at their job. This type of certification can be helpful for those looking to advance their career, as it shows employers that an individual has taken the time to learn about this area of accounting and is committed to continuing their education.

The certification program typically includes coursework in areas such as billing, collections, customer service, record keeping, accounts reconciliation, and other related topics. Upon successful completion of the program, individuals earn a certificate that demonstrates their understanding of these topics. This certificate can be used as proof of competency when applying for positions or advancing in one’s current role. It also serves as an indication that the individual is dedicated to continuing their professional development in this field.

Overall, accounts receivable clerk certification can provide many benefits for those working in this field. It provides individuals with an opportunity to demonstrate their knowledge and expertise while helping them advance their careers or gain higher-level positions within organizations.

Pro Tip: Get certified in Accounts Receivable Clerk (ARC) through the American Institute of Professional Bookkeepers (AIPB). This certification helps demonstrate your commitment to the profession and shows employers that you have mastered the skills necessary to be a successful accounts receivable clerk.

Related: What does an Accounts Receivable Clerk do?

Top 10 Accounts Receivable Clerk Certifications

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

1. Certified Accounts Receivable Professional (CARP)

Certified Accounts Receivable Professional (CARP) is a professional certification program offered by the National Association of Credit Management (NACM). The CARP credential is designed to recognize and validate the knowledge, skills, and abilities of accounts receivable professionals. It provides a standard for measuring performance in the field of accounts receivable management.

It typically takes about six months to complete the requirements for the CARP certification. To be eligible for the program, applicants must have at least two years of experience in accounts receivable management or related fields. They must also pass an exam that covers topics such as credit policies, collections procedures, dispute resolution, and legal issues.

The cost of obtaining the CARP certification varies depending on which package you choose. The basic package includes an exam fee, study materials, and access to online practice tests. The comprehensive package includes all of these items plus additional resources such as webinars and workshops.

The CARP credential can open up career opportunities within accounts receivable management or related fields and can also provide recognition from employers and peers in the industry. It is an excellent way to demonstrate your commitment to excellence in accounts receivable management.

2. Certified Credit and Collections Professional (CCCP)

The Certified Credit and Collections Professional (CCCP) is a professional certification offered by the National Association of Credit Management (NACM). It is designed to recognize individuals with the knowledge and skills required to effectively manage credit and collections operations. The CCCP credential demonstrates that an individual has a comprehensive understanding of credit and collections management principles, practices, and procedures.

It typically takes between 6-12 months to achieve the CCCP credential. To get certified, applicants must pass a three-part exam that covers topics such as legal compliance, financial analysis, customer service, risk management, dispute resolution, and more. Applicants must also have at least two years of experience in the field of credit or collections management.

The cost for the CCCP certification varies depending on whether you are an NACM member or non-member. For NACM members, it costs $795 for all three parts of the exam; for non-members it costs $995. Additionally, there may be additional fees associated with taking the exam in certain locations.

3. Certified Accounts Receivable Manager (CARM)

Certified Accounts Receivable Manager (CARM) is a professional certification that recognizes the expertise of accounts receivable professionals. This certification is offered by the International Association of Credit and Collection Professionals (IACC).

The CARM certification program has three levels: Certified Accounts Receivable Manager (CARM), Advanced Certified Accounts Receivable Manager (ACARM), and Senior Certified Accounts Receivable Manager (SCARM). Each level requires passing an exam, which covers topics such as credit and collection policies, accounts receivable management, dispute resolution, legal issues related to accounts receivable, and customer service.

It typically takes about six months to complete the training and pass the exams for each level of certification. The cost for each level of certification varies depending on the IACC member's country of residence. In the United States, for example, it costs $395 for the CARM exam and $595 for both ACARM and SCARM exams.

To become certified at any level, applicants must have at least two years' experience in accounts receivable management or credit and collections. Applicants must also submit their resume or CV to demonstrate their knowledge in this area.

4. Certified Accounts Receivable Technician (CART)

Certified Accounts Receivable Technician (CART) is a professional certification program offered by the Institute of Financial Operations. It is designed to recognize accounts receivable professionals who demonstrate a high level of knowledge and skill in the field. The CART certification requires individuals to pass an exam that tests their knowledge and understanding of accounts receivable processes, procedures, and best practices.

The CART certification program consists of two parts: the CART Exam and the CART Certification Program. The CART Exam is an online assessment that covers topics such as accounts receivable management, collections, customer service, dispute resolution, and more. To become certified, applicants must pass this exam with a score of 70% or higher.

The CART Certification Program is a comprehensive training course that includes both online and in-person instruction. This program covers topics such as accounts receivable operations, credit management, collections strategies, dispute resolution techniques, customer service skills, legal issues related to accounts receivable management, and more. Upon successful completion of the coursework and passing the final exam with a score of 70% or higher, applicants will receive their Certified Accounts Receivable Technician (CART) certificate from the Institute of Financial Operations.

It typically takes about three months to complete the CART Certification Program if you are taking it full-time; however, part-time students may take up to six months to complete it depending on their schedule.

The cost for the CART Certification Program varies depending on whether you are taking it online or in person; however, it typically ranges from $500-$1,000 USD for both components combined (exam + course).

5. Certified Accounts Receivable Specialist (CARS)

Certified Accounts Receivable Specialist (CARS) is a professional certification program designed to help accounts receivable professionals improve their skills and knowledge in the field. The program is offered through the National Association of Credit Management (NACM).

The CARS program consists of three courses: Principles of Accounts Receivable, Advanced Accounts Receivable and Professional Practices. Each course must be completed within a specified timeframe and with a passing grade in order to receive the certification. The program typically takes about six months to complete, depending on the individual's availability for study time.

To get certified, applicants must first submit an application to NACM and pay a fee of $250. Once accepted into the program, applicants will need to complete all three courses within six months or they will have to reapply for admission. Upon successful completion of all three courses, applicants will receive their CARS designation from NACM.

The cost of the CARS certification program is $250 plus any additional fees associated with taking the courses. This fee covers the cost of materials and access to online resources needed for each course as well as administrative costs associated with administering the program.

6. Certified Professional in Accounts Receivables Management (CPARM)

Certified Professional in Accounts Receivables Management (CPARM) is a professional certification program designed to recognize individuals who have demonstrated expertise in the management of accounts receivable. The CPARM certification is awarded by the Institute of Financial Operations and is recognized as an industry standard for accounts receivable professionals.

The CPARM certification requires applicants to pass an exam that covers topics such as accounts receivable processes, credit and collections, dispute resolution, customer service, and financial reporting. The exam consists of 100 multiple choice questions and must be completed within two hours.

To get the CPARM certification, applicants must first meet certain eligibility requirements. These include having at least three years of experience in accounts receivable management or related fields, or completing a minimum of 12 college credits in accounting or finance-related courses. Applicants must also submit a formal application to the Institute of Financial Operations and pay a $350 fee for the exam.

Once an applicant has met all eligibility requirements and paid the fee for the exam, they can register for the exam online through the Institute's website. After passing the exam, applicants will receive their official CPARM certificate from the Institute of Financial Operations.

7. Certified Billing and Coding Specialist (CBCS)

A Certified Billing and Coding Specialist (CBCS) is a professional who specializes in medical coding and billing. They are responsible for ensuring that all medical services rendered to patients are accurately coded, billed, and reimbursed by insurance companies. This includes verifying insurance coverage, submitting claims to insurers, and resolving any discrepancies that may arise.

It typically takes between 6-12 months to complete the training requirements for the CBCS certification. The training program consists of both classroom instruction as well as hands-on experience in a medical office setting. In addition to completing the coursework, applicants must also pass an exam administered by the National Healthcareer Association (NHA).

To become certified as a CBCS, you must first meet certain eligibility requirements. These include having at least one year of experience in medical coding or billing; a high school diploma or GED; completion of an accredited coding program; and passing the NHA’s exam.

The cost for becoming certified as a CBCS varies depending on the program you choose. Generally speaking, it can range from $1,000-$2,000 for tuition and fees associated with the program. Additionally, there is usually an exam fee of around $200-$300.

8. American Institute of Professional Bookkeepers Certification in Accounts Receivables (AIPB-AR)

The American Institute of Professional Bookkeepers (AIPB) Accounts Receivables Certification is a professional certification program designed to recognize individuals who have demonstrated knowledge and proficiency in the field of accounts receivables. This certification is intended to provide employers with assurance that their employees are knowledgeable and capable of performing accounts receivable tasks.

The AIPB-AR certification requires applicants to pass a two-hour, multiple-choice exam. The exam covers topics such as credit policies, billing procedures, cash management, collections, and customer service. Applicants must also demonstrate a minimum level of experience in the field of accounts receivables prior to taking the exam.

To get certified, applicants must first register for the exam online or by mail. Once registered, applicants can take the test at any approved testing center or through an online proctoring service. The cost for registration is $150 USD plus applicable taxes and fees.

Once the exam has been passed successfully, applicants will receive their AIPB-AR certification within 2–4 weeks after completion of the exam. The certification is valid for three years from the date it was issued and can be renewed by completing continuing education credits or retaking the exam every three years.

9. National Association of Credit Management's Credit & Collection Certification Program (NACM-CCC)

The National Association of Credit Management’s Credit & Collection Certification Program (NACM-CCC) is a professional certification program designed to recognize the knowledge and experience of credit and collection professionals. The NACM-CCC provides a comprehensive examination that covers all aspects of credit and collections, including credit analysis, accounts receivable management, legal issues, and customer service.

It takes approximately six to nine months to complete the NACM-CCC program. To get certified, applicants must first submit an application with proof of at least two years of experience in the field. Applicants must also pass an exam that consists of multiple choice questions related to credit and collection topics. Once the exam is passed, applicants must complete a series of courses in order to receive their certification.

The cost for the NACM-CCC program varies depending on whether or not you are already a member of the National Association of Credit Management (NACM). For nonmembers, the cost is $1,295; for members it is $995. In addition to these fees, there may be additional costs associated with taking courses or purchasing study materials.

10. International Association of Commercial Collectors' Certificate in Commercial Collections (IACC-CC).

The International Association of Commercial Collectors’ Certificate in Commercial Collections (IACC-CC) is a professional certification program designed to provide commercial collectors with the knowledge and skills necessary to effectively and ethically collect delinquent accounts. The IACC-CC program is offered through the International Association of Credit and Collection Professionals (IACCP).

To earn the IACC-CC certification, applicants must complete an online course that covers topics such as legal compliance, collection strategies, dispute resolution, customer service, and ethics. The course takes approximately 10 hours to complete. After completing the course, applicants must pass a written exam with a score of 70% or higher.

The cost for the IACC-CC program is $295 for members of the IACCP and $395 for non-members. This fee includes access to the online course materials, as well as one attempt at the written exam. If an applicant does not pass the exam on their first attempt, they may retake it for an additional fee of $50.

Once an applicant has successfully completed all requirements for the IACC-CC program, they will receive their official certificate from the IACCP. The certificate is valid for three years and can be renewed by taking additional continuing education courses or retaking the written exam.

Do You Really Need a Accounts Receivable Clerk Certificate?

Whether you need an accounts receivable clerk certificate depends on your goals. If you’re looking to become a full-time accounts receivable clerk, then having some type of certificate or certification can be beneficial. It shows that you have knowledge and experience in this field and can help increase your chances of getting hired.

However, if you already have a job in accounting or bookkeeping and just want to supplement your skills with some additional knowledge about accounts receivable, then a certificate may not be necessary. There are many online courses and tutorials available that can teach you the basics of accounts receivable without needing any type of formal certification.

Ultimately, it depends on what kind of career path you’re hoping to pursue. If becoming an accounts receivable clerk is part of your long-term plan, then getting certified may be worth the investment. But if it’s just a short-term goal, then taking some free online resources may be enough to get the job done.

Related: Accounts Receivable Clerk Resume Examples

FAQs About Accounts Receivable Clerk Certifications

1. What is an Accounts Receivable Clerk Certification?

An Accounts Receivable Clerk Certification is a specialized certification that demonstrates an individual has acquired the knowledge and skills necessary to work as an accounts receivable clerk. It is typically offered by professional organizations or technical schools.

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

The primary benefit of obtaining an Accounts Receivable Clerk Certification is that it demonstrates to employers that the individual has obtained a higher level of expertise in their field than those who don't have such certifications. This can help to increase job opportunities and salary potential. Additionally, having this certification may also qualify individuals for certain positions within larger corporations or government agencies.

3. Who can take the Accounts Receivable Clerk Certification Exam?

The Accounts Receivable Clerk Certification Exam is open to anyone who meets the eligibility requirements set forth by the issuing organization or school offering the certification program. Generally, these requirements include a high school diploma or equivalent, as well as a minimum number of years working in accounts receivable-related fields.

4. How long does it take to complete the Accounts Receivable Clerk Certification Program?

The length of time required to complete the program will depend on which organization or school you choose to obtain your certification from, as well as how much time you are able to devote to studying and completing any required coursework or exams. Generally speaking, most programs take between six months and one year to complete.

5. Is there any financial aid available for those interested in earning their Accounts Receivable Clerk Certification?

Yes, many organizations offer financial assistance or scholarships for students interested in obtaining their Accounts Receivable Clerk Certifications. You should contact your chosen institution directly to inquire about any available options they may have available for students looking for help with financing their education in this field.