Top 11 Timekeeper Certifications

Certifications for a timekeeper demonstrate a level of knowledge and proficiency in the field. They are an indication to employers that the individual is well versed in the technical aspects of timekeeping, such as payroll, labor laws, and employee benefit regulations. Certifications can also provide an edge over other applicants when competing for positions in the job market. In addition, certifications can help establish credibility with potential clients and employers who may be unfamiliar with the individual’s background and experience. Furthermore, certifications are often a requirement for certain positions or promotions within certain organizations. Finally, having a certification can increase one's salary and give them access to exclusive job opportunities.

The purpose of this article is to review the most beneficial certifications for Timekeepers and explain how they can help advance one's career in the field.

What are Timekeeper Certifications?

Timekeeper certification is a formal process that ensures an individual has the necessary skills and knowledge to accurately track and manage employee time records. This type of certification can be beneficial to both employers and employees, as it ensures accurate tracking of employee hours for payroll purposes, allows for easier compliance with labor laws, and helps employers identify areas where they may need to improve their timekeeping processes. For employees, having a certified timekeeper on staff can mean more accurate paychecks and better understanding of how their hours are being tracked. Timekeeper certification also provides peace of mind for both employers and employees that their time records are being handled in a secure manner, helping to protect against potential errors or fraud. Ultimately, becoming certified in timekeeping can help ensure accuracy, consistency, and fairness when it comes to tracking employee hours.

Pro Tip: Make sure to keep your timekeeper certification up-to-date. It is important to stay informed on the latest regulations and standards in order to provide accurate and reliable timekeeping services. Additionally, it can be beneficial to take continuing education courses in order to further your understanding of this area of expertise.

Related: What does a Timekeeper do?

Top 11 Timekeeper Certifications

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

1. Certified Timekeeper (CTK)

Certified Timekeeper (CTK) is a professional certification program offered by the American Payroll Association (APA). It is designed for payroll professionals who want to demonstrate their knowledge of payroll laws and regulations. The CTK certification provides employers with assurance that their payroll staff has the necessary skills to accurately process payrolls.

The Certified Timekeeper Program consists of two parts: an online course and a written examination. The online course takes approximately 8 hours to complete and covers topics such as federal and state wage and hour laws, tax withholding, garnishments, unemployment insurance, workers’ compensation, and more. After completing the online course, candidates must pass a 90-minute multiple-choice exam covering all the material in the course.

To become a Certified Timekeeper, you must be an APA member in good standing or purchase an APA membership at the time of registration. The cost of the program is $395 for APA members and $495 for non-members.

Once you have successfully completed both parts of the program, you will receive your official CTK certificate from the APA within 4-6 weeks.

2. Certified Professional Timekeeper (CPT)

Certified Professional Timekeeper (CPT) is a certification program offered by the American Payroll Association (APA). It is designed to recognize individuals who demonstrate a high level of competency in payroll and timekeeping. The CPT certification is awarded to those who have successfully completed the APA's comprehensive training program, which includes a series of courses, exams, and practical experience.

To obtain the CPT certification, applicants must complete three core courses: Payroll Fundamentals, Payroll Law & Regulations, and Timekeeping & Reporting. Each course requires a minimum score of 70% on the final exam. In addition to the courses, applicants must also complete two elective courses from a list of approved topics.

The entire process typically takes between four and six months to complete. Applicants must also pass an online proctored exam with a score of 80% or higher in order to receive their CPT certification. The cost for the entire process varies depending on the number of courses taken; however, it typically costs around $1,500 – $2,000 USD.

3. Certified Payroll Professional (CPP)

Certified Payroll Professional (CPP) is a professional certification program designed to recognize payroll professionals who demonstrate a comprehensive knowledge of payroll regulations and procedures. The CPP certification is awarded by the American Payroll Association (APA).

To become certified, individuals must have at least two years of full-time payroll experience and pass an examination administered by the APA. The exam consists of 150 multiple-choice questions covering topics such as federal and state wage laws, garnishments, taxes, deductions, benefits, and other related topics. Candidates must also complete four hours of continuing education annually to maintain their certification.

The cost for the CPP exam varies depending on the type of membership you have with the APA. For non-members, the cost is $395; for members, it’s $295. The exam can be taken in person or online through a proctored testing center. It typically takes about three to four hours to complete the CPP exam.

4. Certified Time Management Specialist (CTMS)

Certified Time Management Specialist (CTMS) is a professional certification program designed to recognize individuals who have demonstrated excellence in time management. The certification is offered by the International Association of Time Management Specialists (IATMS).

To become certified, applicants must have at least three years of experience in time management and/or related fields. They must also pass an exam that covers topics such as project planning, task prioritization, goal setting, and organizational skills. The exam consists of multiple-choice questions and takes approximately two hours to complete.

The cost for the CTMS certification program varies depending on the country in which you are taking the exam. In the United States, it costs $250 for IATMS members and $350 for non-members. In Canada, it costs $400 for IATMS members and $500 for non-members.

Once you have passed the CTMS exam, you will receive a certificate of completion from IATMS that is valid for two years. After two years, you will need to renew your certification by taking an updated version of the exam or completing continuing education credits.

5. Certified Scheduling Professional (CSP)

Certified Scheduling Professional (CSP) is a certification program offered by the American Production and Inventory Control Society (APICS). It is designed to recognize professionals who have demonstrated expertise in the development, implementation, and maintenance of project schedules. The CSP certification is an industry-recognized credential that demonstrates a commitment to best practices in project scheduling.

To become certified as a CSP, applicants must pass an exam administered by APICS. The exam covers topics such as project management fundamentals, scheduling techniques, resource optimization, and risk management. The exam consists of multiple-choice questions and takes approximately 3 hours to complete.

Applicants must meet certain prerequisites before taking the exam. These include at least three years of professional experience in project scheduling or related fields, completion of an approved course in project scheduling or related fields, or successful completion of APICS’s Certified Supply Chain Professional (CSCP) program.

The cost for the CSP exam varies depending on whether you are an APICS member or non-member. For members, the cost is $495; for non-members it is $595. Additionally, there may be additional fees for study materials and other resources needed to prepare for the exam.

6. Certified Workforce Planning Professional (CWPP)

Certified Workforce Planning Professional (CWPP) is a certification program designed to help professionals develop the skills and knowledge necessary to effectively plan for their organization's workforce needs. The CWPP is administered by the American Society for Training and Development (ASTD) and is recognized as an industry-leading certification in workforce planning.

The CWPP program consists of four courses: Introduction to Workforce Planning, Analyzing Data for Workforce Planning, Developing Strategies for Workforce Planning, and Implementing a Workforce Plan. Each course requires 30 hours of instruction and can be completed online or in a classroom setting.

To become certified, individuals must pass all four courses with a minimum score of 70% on each exam. The cost of the CWPP program varies depending on whether you take the classes online or in person. Online courses typically range from $400-$600 per course while classroom courses range from $800-$1200 per course.

Once certified, individuals will receive a certificate of completion from ASTD which can be used to demonstrate their expertise in workforce planning to employers. In addition, they will also receive access to exclusive resources such as networking opportunities and job postings related to the field.

7. Certified Employee Benefits Administrator (CEBA)

Certified Employee Benefits Administrator (CEBA) is a professional certification program offered by the International Foundation of Employee Benefit Plans (IFEBP). The CEBA program is designed to provide individuals with the knowledge and skills necessary to effectively administer employee benefits programs.

The CEBA program consists of three parts: an online course, an online exam, and a practical experience requirement. The online course covers topics such as legal requirements, plan design, communication strategies, and financial management. The online exam tests the individual’s knowledge of the material covered in the course. The practical experience requirement requires applicants to have at least two years of full-time or equivalent part-time experience in employee benefits administration.

It typically takes about three months to complete all three parts of the CEBA program. To get started, applicants must first register for the program through IFEBP’s website and pay a fee of $495 USD. After registering for the program, applicants will receive access to the online course materials and can begin studying for the exam. Once they have completed their studies and passed the exam, they will be eligible to apply for their CEBA certification.

The cost of obtaining a CEBA certification is $495 USD plus any additional fees associated with taking the exam or completing other requirements.

8. Certified Leave Management Specialist (CLMS)

Certified Leave Management Specialist (CLMS) is a professional certification program designed to recognize individuals who have achieved a high level of expertise in the area of leave management. The CLMS designation is awarded to those who demonstrate a comprehensive understanding of the laws and regulations that govern leave management, as well as the ability to apply this knowledge effectively in their work.

The certification process consists of two parts: an online assessment and a final exam. The online assessment covers topics such as federal and state leave laws, employee rights, employer obligations, and best practices for managing leaves. Candidates must pass both parts with a score of 80% or higher to be eligible for certification.

The cost of the CLMS program varies depending on the provider. Generally, it costs between $500-$1,000 USD for the initial assessment and exam fees. Additionally, some providers may charge additional fees for study materials or other services related to the program.

It typically takes between three to six months from start to finish to complete the CLMS program. This includes time spent studying for the assessment and taking the final exam.

9. Certified Human Resources Timekeeper (CHRT)

Certified Human Resources Timekeeper (CHRT) is a certification program offered by the Society for Human Resource Management (SHRM). This certification is designed to recognize those who have demonstrated expertise in managing and tracking employee time and attendance. The CHRT credential is intended to demonstrate an individual’s commitment to the field of human resources and their ability to effectively manage employee time and attendance.

The CHRT certification requires applicants to pass a comprehensive exam, which covers topics such as payroll laws, labor regulations, timekeeping systems, leave policies, and more. To qualify for the exam, applicants must have at least two years of professional experience in a human resources role that includes managing employee time and attendance.

The CHRT exam can be taken online or in-person at a SHRM-approved testing center. The exam typically takes about three hours to complete. Applicants are allowed up to four hours if needed.

The cost of the CHRT certification varies depending on whether you are a SHRM member or non-member. For members, it costs $300; for non-members, it costs $400. Additionally, there is an annual renewal fee of $50 for members and $75 for non-members.

10. International Association of Timekeepers' Certification Program (IATCP)

The International Association of Timekeepers' Certification Program (IATCP) is an industry-recognized certification program designed to recognize and certify timekeeping professionals who meet the highest standards of excellence. The IATCP is a voluntary program that provides recognition for individuals who demonstrate knowledge, experience, and proficiency in the field of timekeeping.

The IATCP certification process consists of two parts: a written exam and a practical exam. The written exam covers topics such as timekeeping principles, accuracy requirements, data entry techniques, and legal aspects of timekeeping. The practical exam involves hands-on tasks such as setting up a clock system, entering data into a computer system, and troubleshooting any problems with the system.

The IATCP certification process typically takes about six months to complete. To get started on the certification process, interested individuals must submit an application form along with proof of their education or work experience in the field of timekeeping. Once accepted into the program, they will be required to take both the written and practical exams. After successfully completing both exams, they will receive their official IATCP certificate.

The cost for the IATCP certification program varies depending on where you live and how much experience you have in the field of timekeeping. Generally speaking, it costs around $500-$700 USD to become certified through IATCP.

11. American Payroll Association's Certification Program for Payroll Professionals (APACP).

The American Payroll Association's Certification Program for Payroll Professionals (APACP) is a credentialing program designed to recognize payroll professionals who have demonstrated a mastery of the knowledge and skills needed to perform payroll functions. It is the only certification program specifically designed for payroll professionals, and it is recognized by employers, government agencies, and other organizations as an important indicator of professional competency.

The APACP consists of three levels: Certified Payroll Professional (CPP), Fundamental Payroll Certification (FPC), and Certified Payroll Administrator (CPA). Each level has its own set of requirements that must be met in order to become certified.

To obtain the CPP, applicants must pass a comprehensive examination that covers all aspects of payroll administration. The exam consists of multiple-choice questions, case studies, and simulations. Applicants must also demonstrate at least two years of experience in payroll operations or related fields. The exam fee is $395 for members of the American Payroll Association and $495 for non-members.

To obtain the FPC, applicants must pass an examination that covers basic payroll principles and practices. The exam consists of multiple-choice questions and case studies. Applicants must also demonstrate at least one year of experience in payroll operations or related fields. The exam fee is $295 for members of the American Payroll Association and $395 for non-members.

To obtain the CPA, applicants must pass an examination that covers advanced topics in payroll administration such as tax compliance, garnishments, electronic payments, accounting principles, and more. The exam consists of multiple-choice questions and case studies. Applicants must also demonstrate at least three years of experience in payroll operations or related fields. The exam fee is $595 for members of the American Payroll Association and $695 for non-members.

It typically takes 4–6 weeks to receive your certification after passing the exams; however this may vary depending on when you took your exams as well as any additional documentation required by APA before issuing your certification credentials .

Do You Really Need a Timekeeper Certificate?

The answer to this question depends on the person asking it and their particular circumstances. The most common reason someone would need a timekeeper certificate is if they are applying for a job that requires one. Many employers prefer to hire individuals who possess a timekeeper certificate, as it shows that they have the necessary skills and knowledge to accurately track employee hours, payroll, and other related tasks.

In some cases, having a timekeeper certificate can be beneficial even if you are not applying for a job. For instance, having a timekeeper certificate can demonstrate that you have the ability to work with data in an organized manner and understand how to properly manage payroll systems. This type of certification may also give you an edge when negotiating salary or benefits with potential employers.

Ultimately, whether or not you need a timekeeper certificate will depend on your individual situation and goals. If you are looking for employment that requires one or feel that having one would be beneficial in your current role, then obtaining a timekeeper certificate may be worth pursuing.

Related: Timekeeper Resume Examples

FAQs About Timekeeper Certifications

1. What are the requirements to become a Timekeeper Certification?

Answer: The requirements vary by certification, but typically include a combination of education and experience in timekeeping and/or payroll management. It is also important to ensure that you have the necessary skills and knowledge in order to successfully pass the certification exam.

2. How long does it take to complete a Timekeeper Certification?

Answer: The amount of time needed to complete a Timekeeper Certification can vary depending on the specific program chosen, however, most programs require anywhere from six months to one year of study.

3. What type of jobs require Timekeeper Certifications?

Answer: Many employers prefer or even require their timekeepers or payroll staff to hold certifications as it demonstrates their proficiency in the field. Typical job titles requiring certifications include Payroll Manager, Payroll Specialist, and Timekeeping Administrator.

4. How much does it cost to obtain a Timekeeper Certification?

Answer: The cost for obtaining a Timekeeper Certification varies based on the specific program chosen, however, most programs range from $500-$1,000 USD. Additionally, there may be additional fees associated with taking the certification exam itself.

5. Is continuing education required for maintaining my Timekeeper Certification?

Answer: Most certifying organizations require certified professionals to maintain their certifications through participation in continuing education courses or other activities related to their profession in order to remain certified.