Process to Join

• To get started, complete the Membership Application. Attention Mac Users: You must use "Save As" instead of "Save" to save your application.
• Email, fax, or mail the completed application along with the $250 non-refundable application fee as directed on the application.
• You'll receive confirmation that your application was received within one business day.
• A representative of our Membership Committee will then contact you for a personal interview. If you are accepted, your application fee will be applied toward your first year fees.
• Once you are accepted and all the necessary paperwork is completed, you will immediately receive full access to our members-only online community.
• You will then receive your ACA Success Program materials and be contacted by our Success Program Concierge, who will help you set up your training schedule.

Upcoming Deadlines

September 1, 2010 - application deadline for the December 13-17, 2010 Group Instruction Class

May 1, 2011 - application deadline for the August 2011 Group Instruction Class

Please note that the above deadlines assume that you have completed all training program requirements other than our self-study program and will be able to devote full time to study, marketing and working with clients.  You will need to apply earlier if: 
• You are not yet a Registered Investment Advisor (allow one month*)
• You have not yet completed an approved tax class (add one month*)
• You still need to sit for the CFP® exam (add one month*)
• You will be working full time at something other than launching your practice (add one month*)
• You do not yet have an office (add two weeks*)
*Additional time needed per requirement.  If more than one requirement needs to be met, add the times together to calculate your recommended application deadline.

Eligibility Requirements

Abide by ACA Canon of Ethics and adhere to ACA Pledge to Clients
Comply with all provisions of the ACA Intellectual Property Policy
Offer to supervise others who offer holistic financial planning services
Satisfactorily complete the ACA Success Program*
Maintain membership in NAPFA with either NAPFA-Registered Financial Advisor or Provisional Member status* (ACA will waive this requirement for applicants holding CPA/PFS designation after 1/1/10)
Maintain CFP or CPA/PFS designation or educational equivalent as determined by ACA*
Maintain registration as RIA or RIA Agent with SEC or appropriate state regulatory agencies*
Disclose to clients and on Form ADV all referral fees paid to third parties
Actively participate in furthering the goals of the corporation as defined in the Board’s Ends Policies
Make timely payment of all ACA dues and/or other fees
Participate in the ACA Benchmarking Survey 

*Provisional Member status is available for advisors in the process of completing these requirements.