Become a Member of CSMFO
Refine Your Skills & Develop Your Network

Become A Member!

CSMFO is California’s premier statewide association for finance professionals.

This includes employees and elected or appointed officials who are involved in government finance for cities, special districts and counties in California. Membership also includes commercial finance professionals, such as brokers, bankers, auditors, and specialized financial consultants. The benefits of networking with government finance professionals and commercial associates from cities, special districts and counties across the State of California are numerous.

Over two thousand members strong, we promote excellence in financial management through innovation, continuing education and the professional development of our members. CSMFO members are deeply involved in the key issues facing cities, special districts and counties today. We value honesty and integrity, and strive to adhere to the highest ethical standards.

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Member Benefits

Professional Development

CSMFO promotes excellence in financial management through continuing education. We offer training opportunities year-round and throughout the state. Core training courses include: Introduction to Government Accounting, Intermediate Government Accounting, Investment Accounting (in partnership with CMTA – California Municipal Treasurers Association), The Power of Fiscal Policies / Long-Term Financial Planning, Fundamentals of Tax Revenues.

Annual Conference

With as many as 2,000 plus attendees and over two full days of continuing education offerings, the CSMFO Annual Conference is the premier event for California local government finance officers. In addition to the always-impressive course schedule, CSMFO provides plenty of opportunities to visit over 100 vendors in our Exhibit Hall and network with your peers. Members receive discounted registration pricing.

Weekend Training

A mini-conference, this annual event is targeted to finance professionals at all levels. The weekend is planned to achieve each attendee 20 hours of high-level professional education training, as well as the opportunity to enhance interaction with fellow attendees by remaining “in community” throughout the weekend.

Webinars

CSMFO hosts free webinars throughout the year on a myriad of topics. Some recent past topics include: GASB Update; Finance Professional’s Role in Collective Bargaining; Interviewing Skills to Advance Your Finance Career; Best Practices in Budgeting; Managing Pension and OPEB Liabilities; Best Practices in Upgrading Financial Systems.

Members-Only Knowledge Base

The CSMFO Knowledge Base connects you instantaneously with members across the state. Get sample RFPs, advice on a problem, consultant recommendations—anything you need. What’s more is the responses are posted to the resource room on the CSMFO website!

Mentoring Programs

Be the best finance professional you can with the help of our coaching program. Schedule one-on-one time with a mentor or use our personal productivity tools. Have a lot of experience? Become a mentor and help guide the next generation!

Budget, Financial Reporting, and Innovation Awards

Awards are annually presented to local governments with exceptional operating and capital budgets, as well as comprehensive annual financial reports. The Innovation Award Program grants awards to a select few local governments who implement innovative ideas in government finance. Award winners receive their awards in person at the Annual Conference.

Representation Across California - CSMFO Chapters

Chapters of CSMFO were established to provide an opportunity for members in various regions of the state to meet on a regular basis and exchange ideas, discuss professional problems and participate in technical presentations on specific areas of the profession.

Stay Informed - CSMFO News

CSMFO News offers timely and exclusive content tailored for government finance professionals. With a goal of fostering community engagement through featured member spotlights, insights into CSMFO, and promoting mentorship. Expand your membership engagement with CSMFO News – the go-to resource for staying connected with the association.
 

Membership Brochure

Our comprehensive brochure highlights the unparalleled benefits of joining California's foremost community of municipal finance professionals. Showcase the invaluable resources, professional development opportunities, and collaborative network that a CSMFO Membership brings, empowering your team to excel in government finance and contribute to the success of your organization.


Membership Options

Other Government - $150

This classification is open to all public employees and elected or appointed officials having responsibility for, oversight of, or engaged in, the function of government finance in any city, county, or special district in the State of California.

Management - $150

The management category is for members who have municipal management and supervisory roles. There should be at least one management membership for each agency. The management category applies to municipal finance officers who are in roles such as directors, managers, or supervisors.

Professional - $60

The professional category is for non-management/supervising positions. This category is likely to include Accountants, Analysts, Specialists, Technicians, and other non-management positions without supervisory authority.

Commercial - $300

This classification shall be open to persons not currently employed by a governmental agency whose livelihood derives principally from activities of a commercial or professional nature directly related to government finance.

Student / Professor - FREE

Open to persons presently enrolled in or teaching finance, accounting or public administration studies.

Retired - $30

Open to former municipal members who have retired from public service.

 

Start Your Membership Today!

Embark on a journey of professional growth and collaboration by becoming a part of CSMFO's vibrant community. Start your membership today and join a network of dedicated finance professionals committed to excellence in government finance.
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Capturing Excellence - CSMFO in Action

From lively conferences and dynamic training sessions to heartwarming volunteer activities and collaborative committee meetings, this is but a glimpse of the diverse and dedicated professionals who make up our CSMFO membership.