A certified payroll professional is an HR expert who calculates, manages, and distributes employee wages. He or she ensures that employees receive timely and accurate compensation with the help of payroll clerks. In most cases, a payroll professional is also in charge of benefit packages and retirement funds. Meeting the American Payroll Association’s (APA) eligibility requirements and passing an extensive exam are required to earn the title of certified payroll professional. The APA certifies candidates all over the world. Every five years, a person must complete a certain number of continuing education courses in order to keep their certification.
The American Payroll Association (APA) offers certification exams to payroll workers who meet one of three criteria. The first option necessitates at least three years of verifiable payroll administration and accounting work experience. An individual must have two years of experience and attend four APA-accredited two- to three-day seminars to meet the second criteria. Criteria three is met by people who have completed 18 months of work, entry-level Fundamental Payroll Certification exams, and three seminar classes. The seminar requirements in criteria two and three can usually be replaced with college coursework in accounting and payroll.
An individual can apply to take the certified payroll professional exam once the prerequisites have been met. Exam dates are available all year at APA-affiliated testing centers around the world. The 190-question computer-based multiple-choice test takes approximately four hours to complete. Paycheck calculation, tax worksheets, benefits management, accounting, and reporting are just a few of the topics covered in the questions. Scores are usually available right after the test, and an official certificate is usually mailed within a month.
Obtaining a position as a head payroll manager at a small business or a large corporation can be aided by becoming a certified payroll professional. Most employers place a high value on the title, and they can rest assured that their employees are well-versed in the job’s responsibilities. Certified payroll professionals can help you streamline and update your payroll systems, implement more efficient HR procedures, and improve worker-manager communication. They also make sure that businesses follow all legal requirements for compensation, benefits, and tax withholding.
A certified payroll professional with a lot of experience and success usually has a lot of opportunities for advancement. He or she may be able to advance to the position of office supervisor or senior HR manager in the future. With continued education and several years of experience, a payroll professional may be able to advance to a top accounting executive position.