Becoming A Member

Explore this Site

Fully exploring this site is your first step in deciding if ACA is right for you. While this Advisor section is your source for membership information, the Consumer and Media sections will give you a slightly different perspective on our organization and its members.

View Our E-Brochure

See and hear what ACA has done for others. Learn more about our philosophy and the Cambridge System™, and hear testimonials from members representing a variety of backgrounds. Click here to view now.

Determining Eligibility for Membership

ACA members must:

• Adhere to [the Cambridge Pledge to Clients] and the Cambridge Canon of Ethics
• Comply with all provisions of the ACA Intellectual Property Policy
• Offer or supervise others who offer holistic financial planning services
• Maintain the CFP® or CPA/PFS designation*
• Maintain membership in NAPFA with either NAPFA-Registered Financial Advisor or Provisional Member Status*
• 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
• Satisfactorily complete the ACA Success Program*
• Actively participate in furthering the goals of the organization
• Participate in the annual Advisor Practice Benchmarking Survey
• Make timely payment on all membership dues and/or other fees

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

For complete information about membership requirements and costs, view our Membership Application.

Get Informed

One of the biggest concerns of potential members, especially those starting a practice from scratch, is what it's going to cost to run their business for the first couple of years. We've analyzed the costs of a typical solo practitioner versus an ACA member and have found that an ACA members enjoy a 34% savings after considering their costs of membership.

Our Cost Comparison takes you through this line-by-line.

Starting a practice is hard work, as you'll see in our 3-Month Quick-Start Checklist. But your commitment and elbow grease plus our expertise and proven system make it a whole lot easier!

Try Us Out

Receive a one-week guest pass to our Advisor Discussion Forum when you complete our Membership Inquiry Form. You can also schedule a tour of our members-only intranet and see the tools and resources available to ACA members.

Speak With Current Members

Based on your background, interests, and goals we will refer you to current members who will share their ACA experience and offer their perspective. If there are ACA members in your area, you may be able to visit their offices and see the Cambridge System™ in action.

Submit your Application for Membership

Email, fax, or mail your completed application along with your $250 non-refundable application fee. You'll receive confirmation that your application is received within one business day. A representative of our Membership Committee will then contact you for a personal interview. If accepted, your application fee will be applied toward your first year fees.

Click here for our Membership Application.

Once Your Application is Accepted

After all the necessary paperwork is completed, you will immediately receive full access to our members-only intranet and discussion forums. You will also receive your ACA Success Program materials and be be contacted by our Success Program Concierge, who will help you set up your training schedule.

Click here for our Membership Inquiry Form, or continue to learn more about [The ACA Success Program].