FAQ
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A: APA cerfication is a valuable, objective credential that verifies a specified level of knowledge, skill, and abilities in the payroll profession.
A: Certification helps individuals demonstate their payroll expertise, secure promotions, advance their careers and enhance their standing within the profession..
Q: Are there different levels of cerfitication?
A: Yes, there are two levels of certification. The Fundamental Payroll Certification (FCC) and the Certified Payroll Professional (CPP). The FCC is a certification credential for payroll beginners and service and support professionals. The CPP is is a certification credential for those with some experience in payroll.
Q: How do I get certified?
A: In order to obtain certification, an individual must pass the American Payroll Association's payroll
certification exam. These exams are given twice a year, once in the spring and once in the fall.
A: There are several methods available to help individuals study and prepare for the payroll certification exams. The American Payroll Association (APA) offers various courses specially designed to prepare individuals for the exams. In addition, there are some self-study tools available such as The Payroll Source®, PayTrain®, Payroll Practice Fundamentals and Fundamentals of Payroll. Many local APA chapters host exam study groups and some local area colleges/universities offer the PayTrain College & University courses.
A: Fundamental Payroll Certification (FPC) is valid for three full calendar years after the year of certification. Certified Payroll Professional (CPP) certification is valid for five full calendar years after the year of certification. This is known as the "recertification period." Retaining payroll certification can be done through continuing education or by successful reexamination.