I agree with Laxrox43 that you should see it as benefiting you now and improving your chances with future opportunities. Will having an ATP reduce insurance rates for your operator? Maybe you can share the cost with your employer in exchange for a pro-rated contract (ie: you pay upfront and they reimburse you $$$ per month until it is paid off). I think Clay Lacy operates this way; not for ATP but general type ratings for new hires.