Frequently Asked Questions
You asked. We answered.
Finance has a way of making simple questions feel complicated. It’s not complicated; it’s just been gatekept. Not anymore. Here’s everything people ask us most.
Getting Started
What is CHIP, exactly?
CHIP (Changing How Individuals Prosper) connects you with vetted, diverse financial professionals (coaches, planners, CPAs, estate attorneys, and more) based on where you are in your financial life. We’re not an investment firm and we don’t manage your money. We help you find the right people to build your financial team.
How do I get started?
Take the 3-minute quiz to find your money archetype, and we’ll match you with the types of professionals who fit your situation. You can browse matches, book a free intro call, and build your team from there, no commitment required to start.
Do I actually need a financial advisor?
Not always, but most people benefit from one at key life moments. The question isn’t whether you need an advisor, it’s which type and when. A financial coach (AFC) might be right when you’re getting out of debt; a CFP makes sense when you’re building a comprehensive plan. CHIP helps you figure out who you actually need.
Costs & Pricing
How much does CHIP cost?
Getting matched and browsing professionals is free. Intro calls with professionals are free. After that, you pay the professionals directly for the services you choose: every pro lists their fees up front, so there are no surprises. CHIP itself doesn’t take a cut of your financial accounts.
How do professionals charge?
It varies by professional and service. Some charge a flat monthly fee, some bill hourly, and some offer one-time project fees (like estate planning). You’ll see each professional’s fee structure on their profile before you ever book, and our budget tools let you model the total cost of your team.
Is CHIP free for employers?
Yes. Through our Beyond the Benefits program, CHIP is free for employers to offer as a financial wellness benefit. Employees pay only for the specific services they choose. It’s designed to complement your existing 401(k), not replace it.
How CHIP Works
How are professionals vetted?
We verify credentials, licensing, and standing before any professional joins the platform. You can always confirm credentials yourself at BrokerCheck.finra.org. A credential gets a professional onto your consideration list: the free intro call helps you decide if they’re the right fit.
What’s the difference between a CFP and a CFA?
A CFP (Certified Financial Planner) works with everyday individuals and families on comprehensive planning: budgeting, retirement, insurance, estate planning. A CFA (Chartered Financial Analyst) is an institutional investment credential. Most people will work with a CFP.
What does “fiduciary” mean and why should I care?
A fiduciary is legally required to act in your best interest, not their own or their firm’s. Not all professionals are fiduciaries; some operate under a weaker “suitability” standard. Always ask: “Are you a fiduciary, and will you put that in writing?” If they hesitate, that’s your answer.
Can I build a team of multiple professionals?
Yes: that’s the whole point. Most people’s financial lives need more than one specialist. CHIP lets you assemble a coordinated team (say, a coach plus a CPA plus an estate attorney) and see the combined picture, instead of juggling disconnected advisors.
Specific Situations
I got an IRS letter. Who do I call?
Call an Enrolled Agent (EA) or a CPA first. An EA has unlimited authority to represent you before the IRS and specializes in audits, back taxes, payment plans, and penalty removal. Don’t ignore IRS letters: the problem gets more expensive the longer you wait.
I’m going through a divorce. Where do I start?
Start with a CDFA (Certified Divorce Financial Analyst) alongside your attorney. The financial decisions made during divorce have long-term consequences most attorneys aren’t trained to model: taxes on asset transfers, retirement accounts, housing costs. Don’t sign anything without understanding the impact.
Does a credential guarantee a good advisor?
No, but it raises the floor significantly. A credential means someone passed rigorous exams and commits to ethics standards. It doesn’t guarantee personality fit. Verify credentials at BrokerCheck.finra.org, then use the intro conversation to decide if they make your team.
Privacy & Trust
Does CHIP manage or hold my money?
No. CHIP is not a registered investment advisor or investment company. We do not manage, hold, or invest your money. Any financial services you receive are provided directly by the independent professionals you choose to work with, not by CHIP.
Is my information private?
Your information is used to match you with appropriate professionals and is handled according to our Privacy Policy. We don’t sell your personal financial details. You control which professionals you share information with and when.
Still have a question?
We’d love to help. Reach our team any time at support@chipprofessionals.com and we’ll point you in the right direction.