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The Leadership Playbook
Not every leader is a great one. Plenty of people wear the “leader” badge, but few earn the respect, trust, and loyalty that separates the good from the exceptional. The difference? Great leaders think, act, and show up in ways that set them apart.
Rethinking Materiality
Materiality is central to financial reporting, yet it is often applied as a narrow technical threshold rather than an ongoing decision-making process. Our new research and case studies introduce a more practical approach.
Don't Miss the Biggest Public Finance Event of the Year
Are you ready for GFOA’s 120th Annual Conference? Join us June 28–July 1 in Chicago, Illinois, for more than 80 sessions covering everything from foundational best practices to advanced strategies and emerging issues in public finance. Add in unparalleled networking, leadership workshops, and inspiring keynotes, and this is a conference you don’t want to miss.
"No Tax on Overtime" FAQs Published
GFOA’s Federal Liaison Center team has published a new series of FAQs related to implementation of the new, temporary “No Tax on Overtime” deduction and the applicability of Fair Labor Standards Act requirements. Although the IRS has granted government employers with relief from separately reporting FLSA-qualified overtime in 2025, employers will need to begin accounting for deductible overtime in 2026 to meet statutory reporting requirements.
Upcoming Events & Deadlines
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Government-wide Financial Statements, and Conversions and Consolidations
Tue, May 12, 2026
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Climb Higher at GFOA's Best Practices Forum
Join us virtually September 28–October 2 for a week of essential insights across all areas of public finance. Featuring nine sessions and up to 18 CPE credits, this program delivers practical strategies, real-world case studies, and interactive exercises to help you strengthen financial management. Explore key best practice topics including accounting, budgeting, debt management, treasury and investments, capital planning, procurement, risk assessment, and leadership.
CPFO Spotlight
Neal Younghans
Neal Younghans, debt administrator for the City of Saint Paul, Minnesota, pursued the CPFO certification to deepen his technical knowledge and develop into a more well-rounded finance professional after ten years in government finance. With a background in English literature and public policy, Neal wanted to formalize and expand his skills in financial management, accounting, debt, and treasury. The certification process challenged him to broaden his technical expertise and strengthened his understanding of the many systems that keep a local government running. Earning the CPFO has enhanced Neal’s confidence, improved his ability to collaborate across departments, and positioned him as a more strategic contributor to his organization’s financial decisions. He encourages others to pursue the certification, noting that it not only builds personal skills but also strengthens the capacity of public finance professionals to serve their communities effectively.
Membership
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Join GFOA
Be part of a powerful community of 34,000+ public finance professionals across the U.S. and Canada. GFOA’s inclusive, organization-based membership model makes it easier than ever to connect, learn, and grow—whether you’re representing a government agency or joining as an individual.
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Member Benefits
Membership in GFOA connects you to the tools, knowledge, and network you need to excel in public finance. Explore the valuable benefits below and see how joining our community can help you advance your skills, strengthen your organization, and make a greater impact in your community.
Networking
Join the Urban Forum
The Urban Forum is one of GFOA’s Affinity Groups—a free member benefit for public finance professionals working in urban governments, including cities, metropolitan counties, and other complex jurisdictions. Connect with peers who understand the realities of urban public finance by exchanging ideas in a dedicated online community, participating in virtual networking events, accessing a member newsletter, and engaging in upcoming educational webinars. There are no volunteer requirements—just opportunities to learn, share, and grow. Join today to start connecting and contributing, and sign up for the Urban Forum networking event on May 7.
Additional Resources
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Awards
Our award programs recognize excellence in government finance.
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Best Practices
GFOA's best practices identify specific policies and procedures that contribute to improved government management.
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Rethinking Initiatives
We're taking a deep dive into budgeting, revenue, and financial reporting.
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Workforce Resources
Articles, research, and case studies to help governments now and in the future.
Publications & Subscriptions
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2024 GAAFR
The 2024 edition of the GAAFR is your go-to resource for the latest accounting rules and how to implement them.
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GAAFR Plus
Need more in-depth guidance in local government accounting, auditing, and financial reporting? GFOA’s GAAFR Plus offers important resources to help navigate the ever-changing world of public finance. Take advantage of this subscription today!