National Check Professional (NCP)
UMACHA has partnered with EPCOR to bring you the ultimate National Check Professional (NCP) Exam Prep Series—your go-to resource for exam success. This comprehensive program provides the knowledge, tools, and confidence you need to succeed on exam day—all without ever leaving your office.
Through 13 live webinars led by industry experts and on-demand courses you can access anytime, this program dives deep into major NCP exam topics, including:
- Check processing and adjustment handling
- Rules and regulations such as Regulation CC, UCC Articles 3 & 4, OC3, and Regulation J
- ECCHO Rules and ACH Rules related to check conversion
- Image exchange standards and processing options
- Fraud detection and risk mitigation
All live webinars are recorded, so you can revisit sessions whenever you need. Plus, you’ll receive valuable study materials such as the NCP Study Manual, quick reference cards, and practice tests to reinforce your learning and help you prepare with confidence.
About the NCP Certification
The NCP certification, also known as the National Check Payments Certification (NCPC), is developed and administered by ECCHO. The program recognizes professionals who possess a deep understanding of check payments, rules, regulations, and operations.
The NCP exam is offered annually during the April–May testing window and evaluates candidates across key domains of check payments, including legal frameworks, fraud prevention, operations, and check products.
Why Become NCP Certified?
Earning your NCP demonstrates mastery of today’s check payments environment and positions you as a trusted expert in your field. Whether you’re an individual seeking professional growth or an organization looking to strengthen your team, NCP certification offers significant value.
Benefits include:
Recognition of your knowledge and expertise in check payments
Increased professional credibility and leadership opportunities
Enhanced understanding of risk management and fraud mitigation
Improved customer service and audit performance
Demonstrated commitment to staying current with evolving industry trends
A competitive edge in a changing payments landscape
Despite the gradual decline in check volumes, check-related fraud and operational challenges continue to rise. Investing in NCP certification ensures that you—and your organization—are equipped to navigate these challenges with confidence and expertise.
Ready to Get Started?
Partner with UMACHA and EPCOR to gain the knowledge, confidence, and recognition that come with becoming a National Check Professional.
Step 1: Review These Helpful Materials to Get Your NCP Training Underway
ECCHO's Jump Start Reading Program
A reading list designed to give you a head start in studying for the NCP exam.
A guide to help you navigate your journey towards exam day.
Step 2: Register for NCP Training with UMACHA and EPCOR
Click the following button to register for the NCP Exam Prep Series:
Register for the 2026 NCP Exam Prep Series
Step 3: Register for the NCP Exam with ECCHO
NCP Exam Testing Window: Saturday, April 18 – Saturday, May 9, 2026
NCP Exam Registration Deadline: Tuesday, March 31, 2026
Additional details:
Three-hour computer-based exam with 120 multiple choice questions (100 of which are scored)
Nationwide test centers (for in-person testing) or optional online proctoring
ECCHO offers a re-test option with strict restrictions for candidates who attempt and fail the NCP Exam. This option allows candidates to sit for the NCP Exam a second time within the same testing year, provided that certain conditions are met. For questions about re-testing, please reach out to ECCHO at (214) 273-3200 or ncp@theclearinghouse.org.
Register for the 2026 NCP Exam
NOTE: UMACHA does not offer any discounted/member pricing on the NCP exam. Candidates should speak with their supervisor to determine if their organization is a member of ECCHO to receive discounted pricing on the exam.
Maintaining Your NCP Certification
The NCP certification is valid for five years. You may maintain your status as an NCP by earning and reporting 50 continuing education credits and by completing any three mandatory ECCHO NCP workshops during the five-year period. Alternatively, rather than reporting credits and attending workshops, you may sit for and pass another NCP exam. Participation in NCP training sessions, Payments University, and select Navigating Payments sessions all qualify as continuing education credits. Check out our Calendar of Events for qualifying sessions to maintain your NCP.