>Ronald,
>
>There is a salary survey at www.mcpmag.com that seems to indicate that certification does contribute to your status as an employee. My favorite argument in favor of certification is that no one was even turned down for an opportunity because they were certified. Can you see that? "Ack, phooey, you're an MCSD, you SUCK".
>
>It's an extra edge when negotiating a raise or a new contract. Rarely will developer certification be required (it's more and more required in the MCSE world), but it doesn't hurt, does it?
>
>>People who have it say it's important people who don't... Well you get the idea. Personally I have never been asked to see any certification.

Have to agree with John here. I am not certified and never to my knowledge has it been an issue. But, who knows why some contracts come through and why you never get to the interview stage on others. I am running as fast as I can right now or I would take the time to go through the process. It never hurts and can definitely help.