The HCAPA is an autonomous and independent chapter of the national American Payroll Association. This local chapter promotes educational and professional networking opportunities for payroll professionals in the Greater Houston and surrounding areas, as well as at the state and national levels. The monthly membership meetings, which are held February to November, feature speakers who are experts on a variety of payroll-related topics. The government representatives and payroll vendors who attend the meetings contribute expert participation and resources. The chapter offers instructional classes to prepare for the two payroll certification exams; i.e., Certified Payroll Professional (CPP) and Fundamental Payroll Certification (FPC).