Becoming a Member
Join a century-long tradition of excellence in public finance and connect with over 26,000 professionals across the United States and Canada.
GFOA membership is designed to help you and your organization thrive. By joining, you gain:
- Professional Growth – Build your expertise through training, CPFO certification, and leadership opportunities.
- Networking – Connect with peers across North America through affinity groups, events, and online communities.
- Trusted Resources – Access best practices, research, and tools that support your daily work.
- Advocacy & Leadership – Shape the policies and practices that define the future of public finance.
Getting Started...
Whether you're representing a government organization or an individual looking to connect, the options below will help you get started.
Individuals Employed by a Member Government
If your organization is already a GFOA member, you may be eligible for free membership! Simply create a new account to connect to your organization and start your member benefits. If you already have an account, you can login here and click the activation button on your profile instead
Government Organizations
Cities, counties, towns, school districts, and other local governments can join GFOA under our organization-based model. Most memberships now include unlimited free individual memberships for your staff—making it easier than ever to support your team’s development.
Individuals Not Covered by a Government Membership
If you work for a state or federal agency, retirement system, for-profit entity, or other organization not covered by the unlimited model, you can still join GFOA as an individual member.
Unsure which option is for you? Learn more about the various membership types below, or click here to view our annual fees page for all member types.
Understanding Membership Types
These membership types provide access for all employees within the organization, regardless of department or role. Each employee must activate their own membership.
City
For municipal governments of all sizes, including towns and villages.
County
For county-level governments that provide a range of regional services such as public health, transportation, justice, and administration.
Special District
For independent public entities—such as utilities, transit agencies, fire protection, or water authorities—that perform specific functions of government.
School District
For public K–12 school systems or boards of education.
Native American/Indigenous Governments
For sovereign tribal nations and Indigenous government entities that provide public services to their communities.
These membership types are for professionals whose organizations are not eligible for organizational membership.
State Government
For individuals employed by state or provincial agencies and departments across a wide range of functions, including finance, budgeting, administration, and policy.
Federal Government
For professionals working in U.S. or Canadian federal agencies involved in public service, oversight, or financial management.
Retirement System
For those working in public pension or retirement systems, including investment officers, finance professionals, and administrative staff.
Associate
For individuals employed by private-sector organizations—such as accounting firms, software vendors, consultants, and financial institutions—that support or serve government clients.
Other (Retired, Faculty, Student, and International)
For individuals affiliated with academic institutions, nonprofit organizations, international entities, or other groups not listed above.