18 Membership-based Associations for Accounting Professionals

As an accounting professional, joining a membership-based association can be a wise career move.

The benefits of networking, continuing education, and access to valuable resources can help accountants stay competitive, advance in their careers, and contribute to the growth and success of the accounting industry as a whole.

Ready to join one yourself?

Here is a list of 18 Membership-based Associations for Accounting Professionals.

Accountant-Lawyer Alliance (ALA):

The Accountant-Lawyer Alliance is a member association that aims to bridge the gap between modern accountants and legal professionals. By fostering collaboration and communication between these two disciplines, the ALA seeks to overcome obstacles that may arise when dealing with complex financial and legal matters. The association provides a platform for accountants and lawyers to share insights, best practices, and industry knowledge, enabling them to better serve their clients and provide comprehensive solutions. The ALA likely hosts conferences, seminars, and networking events, encouraging professionals to build strong working relationships and enhance their expertise in areas that intersect accounting and law.

American Accounting Association (AAA):

As the largest community of accountants in academia, the American Accounting Association plays a vital role in advancing accounting education, research, and practice. The association brings together educators, researchers, and practitioners to exchange ideas, promote high-quality accounting education, and contribute to the development of accounting knowledge. Members of AAA benefit from access to leading research publications, conferences, and opportunities to collaborate on research projects. The AAA's initiatives help shape accounting education standards and keep members updated on the latest advancements and trends in the field.

American Institute of Certified Public Accountants (AICPA):

The American Institute of Certified Public Accountants is the preeminent national professional organization for all Certified Public Accountants (CPAs). The AICPA sets ethical standards, provides professional guidance, and advocates for the accounting profession. It offers various resources, including continuing professional education, practice aids, and technical publications, to help CPAs stay informed and maintain their competency. Additionally, the AICPA administers the Uniform CPA Examination, which is the required exam for becoming a licensed CPA in the United States. Joining the AICPA allows CPAs to demonstrate their commitment to professionalism and access valuable resources to excel in their careers.

American Payroll Association (APA):

The American Payroll Association is the leading organization dedicated to payroll education, publications, and training for payroll professionals. Payroll plays a crucial role in any organization, ensuring accurate and timely compensation for employees. The APA offers educational opportunities, certifications, and resources to help payroll professionals stay compliant with constantly changing tax laws and regulations. Members can access a wealth of information, including payroll publications, best practices, and legislative updates, which enables them to streamline processes and contribute to the financial well-being of their organizations.

American Society of Cost Segregation Professionals (ASCSP):

The American Society of Cost Segregation Professionals sets a measurable standard for evaluating cost segregation consultants. Cost segregation is a tax strategy that accelerates depreciation deductions for certain assets, leading to potential tax savings for property owners. By establishing guidelines and standards, ASCSP ensures that its members uphold professional excellence and adhere to ethical practices. Joining ASCSP provides cost segregation consultants with credibility and recognition, which can be valuable in a competitive market. The association likely offers training, certification programs, and opportunities for knowledge-sharing among its members.

Association of Accounting and Finance Professionals (ANAFP):

ANAFP is the largest professional association dedicated solely to those working in or interested in nonprofit accounting and finance. Nonprofit organizations have unique accounting needs, including compliance with specific reporting requirements and transparency in financial management. ANAFP likely offers resources, webinars, and networking opportunities tailored to the nonprofit sector. Members can stay informed about the latest regulations impacting nonprofits, gain insights into financial best practices, and connect with peers who share similar interests and challenges.

Association of Chartered Certified System Accountants (ACCSA):

ACCSA is a membership organization that caters to accounting professionals working within an IT environment. As technology continues to play a pivotal role in the accounting industry, ACCSA likely offers specialized training and resources to help members adapt to digital advancements. The association may focus on areas such as data analytics, information systems audit, cybersecurity, and cloud-based accounting software. By joining ACCSA, accounting professionals can stay at the forefront of technology, making them valuable assets in the digital transformation of finance and accounting.

Institute of Internal Auditors (IIA):

The Institute of Internal Auditors serves as the global voice and recognized authority for the internal audit profession. Internal auditors play a critical role in evaluating and improving an organization's risk management, control, and governance processes. The IIA provides professional certifications (e.g., Certified Internal Auditor - CIA), standards, and resources to support internal auditors in their careers. Members benefit from access to research, best practices, and a network of internal audit professionals worldwide. The IIA also advocates for the profession, promoting the importance of internal audit independence and objectivity.

Institute of Management Accountants (IMA):

IMA is a prominent association exclusively dedicated to advancing the management accounting profession. Management accountants focus on providing financial information and analysis to support strategic decision-making within organizations. IMA offers certification programs (e.g., Certified Management Accountant - CMA), continuing education, and publications to help management accountants enhance their skills and expertise. The association also conducts research on management accounting practices and trends, offering valuable insights to its members. IMA likely organizes conferences and events that facilitate knowledge exchange and networking among professionals in the field.

National Association of Certified Public Bookkeepers (NACPB):

NACPB serves bookkeepers who provide bookkeeping services to the public. Bookkeepers play a crucial role in maintaining accurate financial records and supporting the accounting process. The association may offer bookkeepers resources, certifications (e.g., Certified Public Bookkeeper - CPB), and continuing education opportunities to ensure their competence in bookkeeping practices. By becoming a member of NACPB, bookkeepers can demonstrate their commitment to professional standards and access resources that contribute to their professional growth and success.

National Association of Estate Planners & Councils (NAEPC):

NAEPC is a multi-disciplinary membership organization that brings together estate planners and estate planning councils to promote excellence in estate planning. Estate planning involves strategic preparation for the transfer of assets and wealth to future generations while minimizing tax implications. NAEPC likely offers educational programs, networking events, and resources to help estate planners stay informed about changes in tax laws, estate planning strategies, and wealth management techniques. By joining NAEPC, estate planning professionals can collaborate with peers from various disciplines to provide comprehensive and effective estate planning solutions to clients.

National Association of Enrolled Agents (NAEA):

NAEA is the professional society representing tax preparers who have earned the distinction of "enrolled agent" (EA). Enrolled agents are federally authorized tax practitioners empowered to represent taxpayers before the Internal Revenue Service (IRS). NAEA provides support, education, and resources to help EAs maintain their proficiency in tax law and stay compliant with tax regulations. Members of NAEA can access specialized tax education, attend conferences, and participate in advocacy efforts related to tax policy and regulation.

National Association of Professional Accountants (NAPA):

NAPA is an association that trains, certifies, and licenses bookkeeping students, employees, and professionals. The focus of NAPA is likely on providing educational resources and certification programs for individuals interested in or already working in bookkeeping roles. By joining NAPA, bookkeepers can gain recognition for their skills, demonstrate their commitment to professional standards, and access tools and resources to enhance their proficiency in bookkeeping practices.

National Association of Tax Professionals (NATP):

NATP offers support, education, products, and services to tax professionals, including tax preparers and accountants. Tax professionals need to stay up-to-date with ever-changing tax laws and regulations to ensure accurate tax preparation for their clients. NATP likely provides resources, training, and certification opportunities to help tax professionals maintain their knowledge and deliver quality tax services. Additionally, the association may offer a platform for networking and sharing insights with fellow tax professionals.

National Conference of CPA Practitioners (ncCPAp):

The National Conference of CPA Practitioners is a membership organization advocating on issues that affect CPAs in practice. The association may focus on matters related to small and medium-sized CPA firms and the specific challenges they face. By being a part of ncCPAp, CPA practitioners can collaborate with peers, share experiences, and participate in discussions that influence policy decisions impacting the profession at large.

National Society of Accountants (NSA):

NSA is an association for main street tax and accounting professionals. It caters to accountants and tax practitioners who serve individual and small business clients. NSA likely offers resources, continuing education, and advocacy efforts to support its members in providing quality services to their clients. Members can access updates on tax regulations, business management tips, and networking opportunities within the NSA community.

Professional Association of Small Business Accountants (PASBA):

PASBA represents CPAs, public accountants, and enrolled agents who provide accounting services to small businesses. Small business accountants have unique challenges in handling the financial needs of smaller enterprises. PASBA may offer specialized training, resources, and support tailored to the needs of small business accountants. The association likely fosters collaboration among members and advocates for the interests of small business accounting professionals.

Tax Executives Institute (TEI):

TEI is the professional association representing the in-house tax professional community. In-house tax professionals work within organizations and are responsible for managing the tax affairs of their respective companies. TEI provides its members with networking opportunities, educational programs, and resources to address the complexities of corporate taxation and keep up with tax regulations. The association may also engage in advocacy efforts on behalf of its members to influence tax policy and legislation affecting businesses.

List compiled by JobStars USA : https://jobstars.com/accounting-professional-associations-organizations/