Top 10 Payroll Coordinator Certifications

Certifications are important for a payroll coordinator in the job market because they demonstrate a level of expertise, knowledge, and experience that employers look for when hiring. They also provide evidence that an individual is qualified to handle the complexities of managing payrolls and related processes. Additionally, certifications can help to differentiate job seekers from other applicants, making them more attractive to employers. Having a certification shows employers that the applicant has taken the initiative to increase their knowledge and skill set in order to better serve their employer’s needs. Finally, certifications can help open up opportunities for advancement within an organization or even open doors for new career opportunities.

This article reviews some of the top certifications for Payroll Coordinators and explains how they can help to advance a payroll coordinator's career.

What are Payroll Coordinator Certifications?

Payroll coordinator certification is a professional credential that demonstrates an individual's knowledge and proficiency in payroll management. It is earned through the completion of a series of courses or exams, typically offered by an independent organization or educational institution. Certification can help to demonstrate an individual’s commitment to their career, as well as their competence in the field. It can also provide valuable insight into payroll best practices and regulations.

The certification may be beneficial for those who are seeking employment, as it shows employers that they have a comprehensive understanding of payroll management. Those who already work in the field may find that the certification serves to further develop their skillset, which can lead to higher wages and promotions. Additionally, having this certification may give employers more confidence when entrusting important tasks to a payroll coordinator.

Pro Tip: If you are considering becoming a payroll coordinator, it is important to research and understand the certifications available. Certification can help demonstrate your expertise and knowledge of payroll processes and procedures. It can also give you an edge in the job market when competing for positions.

Related: What does a Payroll Coordinator do?

Top 10 Payroll Coordinator Certifications

Here’s our list of the best certifications available to Payroll Coordinators today.

1. Certified Payroll Professional (CPP)

Certified Payroll Professional (CPP) is a professional certification program offered by the American Payroll Association (APA). It is designed to recognize those individuals who have demonstrated a mastery of payroll knowledge and skills. The CPP certification is highly valued in the payroll industry, as it provides employers with assurance that their payroll staff has the necessary expertise to accurately process payrolls.

The CPP certification requires passing an exam administered by the APA. The exam consists of 150 multiple-choice questions and covers topics such as federal and state laws, regulations, and reporting requirements; payroll calculations; accounting principles; employee benefits; and other related subjects. The exam takes about four hours to complete, although some test-takers may require additional time depending on their experience level.

In order to qualify for the CPP exam, applicants must have at least two years of full-time payroll processing experience or equivalent education/training. Additionally, applicants must be members of the APA or pay a one-time fee to take the exam.

The cost to take the CPP exam varies depending on whether you are an APA member or not. For non-members, there is a $295 fee for taking the exam. For APA members, there is a discounted rate of $195 for taking the exam.

2. Certified Payroll Manager (CPM)

Certified Payroll Manager (CPM) is a professional certification that demonstrates expertise in payroll management. It is offered by the American Payroll Association (APA), a non-profit organization dedicated to promoting best practices and standards for payroll professionals.

To get the CPM certification, you must first meet certain eligibility requirements, such as having at least three years of full-time payroll experience or passing an APA approved payroll course. Once you have met these requirements, you can register to take the CPM exam. The exam consists of 150 multiple-choice questions and takes approximately three hours to complete.

The cost of the CPM certification varies depending on whether you are a member of the APA or not. For non-members, the cost is $395; for members, it is $295. Additionally, there is an annual renewal fee of $50 for all CPMs regardless of membership status.

Once you have passed the exam and paid all applicable fees, you will receive your official CPM certificate in the mail within four to six weeks.

3. Certified Payroll Administrator (CPA)

A Certified Payroll Administrator (CPA) is a professional who has received specialized training and certification in the areas of payroll, labor laws, and human resources. The CPA designation is offered by the American Payroll Association (APA). It is designed to provide individuals with the knowledge and skills necessary to accurately and efficiently manage payroll operations.

The CPA program consists of three courses: Introduction to Payroll, Advanced Payroll Administration, and Human Resources Management. Each course must be completed within a specific timeframe before certification can be awarded.

To become certified as a CPA, you must first complete an APA-approved online or classroom training program that covers all three courses. Once you have completed your training program, you will need to pass an exam administered by the APA. Upon successful completion of the exam, you will receive your CPA certification.

The cost of becoming a Certified Payroll Administrator varies depending on which type of training program you choose. Online programs typically range from $400-$1000 while classroom programs typically range from $1500-$2500.

4. Human Resource Certification Institute (HRCI) Certified Professional in Human Resources (PHR/SPHR)

The Human Resource Certification Institute (HRCI) Certified Professional in Human Resources (PHR/SPHR) is a globally recognized certification for human resources professionals. It is designed to recognize the knowledge and skills of experienced HR professionals who demonstrate mastery of the technical and operational aspects of HR management, including laws, regulations, and practices.

The PHR/SPHR certification requires a minimum of two years professional experience in the field of human resources management. The exam consists of 175 multiple-choice questions covering topics such as workforce planning and employment, compensation and benefits, employee relations, risk management, and strategic management.

It typically takes between six months to one year to prepare for the PHR/SPHR exam. Candidates should plan on studying for at least 10 hours per week over this time period in order to be adequately prepared for the exam.

To obtain the PHR/SPHR certification, candidates must pass an examination administered by HRCI. The cost of taking the exam varies depending on where you take it but generally ranges from $400 - $500 USD.

5. American Payroll Association's Fundamental Payroll Certification (FPC)

The American Payroll Association's Fundamental Payroll Certification (FPC) is a professional certification that recognizes individuals who demonstrate the knowledge and skills necessary to perform payroll-related activities. It is the only payroll certification accredited by the National Commission for Certifying Agencies (NCCA).

The FPC exam consists of multiple-choice questions covering topics such as federal and state wage and hour laws, payroll taxes, garnishments, accounting principles, and other related topics. The exam takes approximately two hours to complete.

To become certified, applicants must first submit an application to the APA along with a fee of $195 for members or $245 for non-members. Once approved, applicants can register for the FPC exam through Prometric Testing Centers. The cost of taking the exam is $165 for members or $215 for non-members.

Once an applicant passes the FPC exam, they will receive their certification from the APA and can use it to demonstrate their expertise in payroll operations. The certification must be renewed every three years by completing at least 30 continuing education credits in payroll-related topics.

6. National Association of Certified Public Bookkeepers' Certified Payroll Bookkeeper (CPB)

The National Association of Certified Public Bookkeepers (NACPB) Certified Payroll Bookkeeper (CPB) is a certification program designed to recognize payroll professionals who have demonstrated excellence in the field. The CPB designation is a mark of distinction that demonstrates an individual’s commitment to professional excellence and knowledge in payroll operations.

To receive the CPB designation, individuals must pass a comprehensive exam that covers payroll regulations, best practices, and other related topics. The exam consists of 100 multiple-choice questions and takes approximately two hours to complete. To be eligible for the CPB designation, applicants must have at least two years of full-time experience as a payroll bookkeeper or equivalent experience.

To apply for the CPB certification, applicants must submit an application form along with supporting documentation such as proof of eligibility and payment of fees. The fee for the CPB certification is $150 for NACPB members and $250 for non-members. Once all requirements are met, applicants will be notified within six weeks if they have passed the exam and can begin using their CPB designation immediately upon notification.

The CPB credential is valid for three years from the date it was issued; however, recertification is required every three years to maintain active status. To recertify, individuals must demonstrate continuing education in payroll topics by submitting proof of completion of approved courses or activities.

7. Institute of Financial Operations' Certified Accounts Payable Professional (CAPP)

The Certified Accounts Payable Professional (CAPP) is a professional certification program offered by the Institute of Financial Operations. It is designed to recognize and validate the knowledge, skills, and abilities of accounts payable professionals. The CAPP certification demonstrates that the individual has a comprehensive understanding of the accounts payable process and its related activities.

It typically takes about 6-9 months to complete the requirements for this certification. To get certified, individuals must pass an online exam which consists of multiple-choice questions covering topics such as accounts payable fundamentals, cash management, vendor management, and internal controls.

In addition to passing the exam, applicants must also meet certain eligibility requirements including having at least two years of relevant work experience in accounts payable or a related field.

The cost for the CAPP certification varies depending on whether you are an Institute member or non-member. For members, it costs $595 USD while non-members pay $895 USD.

8. International Foundation of Employee Benefit Plans' Group Benefits Associate (GBA)

The International Foundation of Employee Benefit Plans’ Group Benefits Associate (GBA) designation is a professional credential that recognizes individuals who have demonstrated a high level of knowledge and understanding in the field of group benefits. The GBA program is designed to provide individuals with the skills and knowledge needed to effectively manage and administer employee benefit plans.

The GBA program consists of five courses: Fundamentals of Group Benefits, Plan Design, Administration & Fiduciary Responsibilities, Communication & Education, and Regulatory Compliance & Legal Issues. Each course is offered online or in-person and can be taken at any time throughout the year. To receive the GBA designation, individuals must successfully complete all five courses within two years.

To get started with the GBA program, individuals must first register with the International Foundation of Employee Benefit Plans by completing an online registration form. Once registered, individuals will receive access to their online account where they can view course materials and take exams. Upon successful completion of all five courses, individuals will receive their official GBA designation certificate from the International Foundation of Employee Benefit Plans.

The cost for each course varies depending on whether it is taken online or in-person. Online courses typically cost between $300-$400 per course while in-person courses typically cost between $500-$700 per course. Additionally, there is a one-time fee for registering for the GBA program which costs $50.

9. Society for Human Resource Management's SHRM-CP and SHRM-SCP certifications

The Society for Human Resource Management (SHRM) offers two certifications: SHRM-CP and SHRM-SCP. The SHRM Certified Professional (SHRM-CP) certification is designed for HR professionals who have experience in the field, while the SHRM Senior Certified Professional (SHRM-SCP) certification is designed for those with more advanced HR knowledge and experience.

To become certified, individuals must pass an exam that covers a variety of topics related to human resources management, including employee and labor relations, talent acquisition and retention, total rewards, and organizational development. The exams are offered through a network of approved testing centers located around the world.

The SHRM-CP exam takes approximately four hours to complete and consists of 160 multiple choice questions. The SHRM-SCP exam takes approximately five hours to complete and consists of 200 multiple choice questions.

In order to be eligible to take either exam, applicants must meet certain educational or work experience requirements. For the SHRM-CP certification, applicants must have a minimum of one year of professional experience in a HR role or hold a bachelor’s degree in any field plus at least one year of professional experience in a HR role; for the SHRM-SCP certification, applicants must have at least three years of professional experience in an HR role or hold a master’s degree plus one year of professional experience in an HR role.

The cost for each exam varies depending on whether you are an SHRM member or nonmember. For members, the cost is $300 USD for the SHRM-CP exam and $400 USD for the SHRM-SCP exam; for nonmembers, the cost is $400 USD for the SHRM-CP exam and $500 USD for the SHRM-SCP exam. Additionally, there are other fees associated with taking either exam such as application fees and retest fees if applicable.

10. American Academy of Professional Coders' CPC certification

The American Academy of Professional Coders (AAPC) CPC certification is a credential that demonstrates an individual’s proficiency in medical coding. The CPC certification is the most recognized medical coding certification in the healthcare industry, and it is a requirement for many positions in medical coding.

The CPC exam consists of 150 multiple-choice questions and takes approximately five hours to complete. To become certified, applicants must pass the exam with a score of 70% or higher. The exam covers topics such as anatomy and physiology, ICD-10-CM diagnosis codes, CPT procedure codes, HCPCS Level II codes, medical terminology, reimbursement methodologies, compliance regulations, and more.

To be eligible to take the CPC exam, applicants must have at least two years of professional experience in medical coding or have completed an AAPC approved program. In addition to meeting one of these requirements, applicants must also submit an application to AAPC and pay an exam fee.

The cost for the CPC certification varies depending on which membership level you choose from AAPC. For example, if you choose the Professional membership level ($99/year), then the cost for the exam is $399 plus applicable taxes. If you choose the Student or Apprentice membership level ($49/year), then the cost for the exam is $299 plus applicable taxes.

Do You Really Need a Payroll Coordinator Certificate?

Whether or not you need a payroll coordinator certificate depends on your individual situation and the requirements of the job. If you are seeking a position in payroll and have no prior experience, then obtaining a payroll coordinator certificate may be beneficial for you. It will demonstrate to employers that you have the necessary knowledge and skills to work in the field.

The certification can provide you with a competitive edge over other applicants who may not have any specialized training in payroll. A certificate program typically consists of courses covering topics such as payroll principles, laws and regulations, employee benefits, taxes and deductions, accounting procedures, record keeping, and more. These courses help prepare students for the duties associated with being a payroll coordinator.

If you already have experience working in payroll but no certification, then obtaining one can still be beneficial as it can demonstrate to employers that you are serious about pursuing a career in this field. It also shows that you are willing to go the extra mile to stay up to date on industry changes and keep your skills sharp.

Ultimately, whether or not you need a payroll coordinator certificate depends on your individual circumstances and goals. If it is something that will make you stand out from other candidates or enhance your existing skillset, then it may be worth considering enrolling in an appropriate program.

Related: Payroll Coordinator Resume Examples

FAQs About Payroll Coordinator Certifications

Q1. What is a Payroll Coordinator Certification?

A1. A Payroll Coordinator Certification is a professional certification that certifies individuals in the skills and knowledge necessary to manage payroll and other related tasks within an organization. It demonstrates that the individual has the competence to ensure accurate payroll administration, compliance with applicable laws, and effective management of employee compensation.

Q2. How do I obtain a Payroll Coordinator Certification?

A2. To obtain a Payroll Coordinator Certification, you must complete an approved course of study, pass an exam, and meet any additional requirements set by the certifying body. Depending on the program, this can include online courses as well as in-person classes or workshops.

Q3. What are the benefits of becoming certified as a Payroll Coordinator?

A3. Becoming certified as a Payroll Coordinator can help you stand out among job applicants and demonstrate your commitment to mastering key payroll management skills. It also may increase your earning potential since many organizations prefer to hire certified professionals for their payroll positions.

Q4. How much does it cost to become certified as a Payroll Coordinator?

A4. The cost of obtaining a Payroll Coordinator Certification varies depending on the certifying body and program chosen; however, most programs range from $500-$1,000 USD (or more). This includes tuition fees for courses or workshops as well as any associated costs such as books or materials required for completion of the program.

Q5. How long does it take to become certified as a Payroll Coordinator?

A5 Most programs take between 6-12 months to complete; however, this can vary depending on the program chosen and how quickly you are able to work through all of its requirements.