Becoming a Member

Becoming a Member

Be part of a powerful community of 26,000+ 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.

A New Model for the Future of Public Finance

Most government members now enjoy unlimited individual memberships for their employees—at one annual price. That means your entire team, from new hires to senior leaders, can access GFOA’s full range of training, resources, and networking opportunities.

  • More Access for Everyone – All employees in your agency can benefit, building capacity and knowledge across your team.
  • Simplified Pricing – One annual fee based on your organization’s size—no more tracking individual memberships.
  • Support for the Next Generation – Easier access for emerging professionals to grow their skills and leadership potential.

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.

    Create My Free Membership

  • 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. 

    Join

  • 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. 

    Join

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.

Who We Serve

Our members represent cities, counties, school districts, utilities, state and federal agencies, retirement systems, and private-sector partners in public finance. Whether you’re managing a small-town budget or overseeing a major metropolitan finance team, there’s a place for you here.

Understanding Membership Types

Organizational 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.  

Individual Membership Types

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. 

Why Join GFOA

Professional Development

You'll get access to top-tier training, conferences, leadership, and certification programs.

Best Practices

Access to timely resources, best practices, and policy guidance that help governments succeed.

Networking Opportunities

Connect with peers through online communities, affinity groups, and events.

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