Certified Financial Consultant (CFC) Practice Exam

HICAP counselors are primarily:

1. Trained professionals

2. Insurance agents

3. Trained and registered volunteers

4. Government employees

The correct answer is: Trained and registered volunteers

HICAP counselors are primarily trained and registered volunteers who offer unbiased assistance to seniors regarding their health insurance options, particularly Medicare. This volunteer role requires specific training to ensure that counselors can effectively help clients navigate complex healthcare choices and understand their benefits. Unlike insurance agents, who may have a financial incentive tied to selling specific products, HICAP counselors focus solely on providing objective information and support based on the individual needs of clients. Their volunteer status also means they are not motivated by profit, allowing them to give impartial advice. This commitment to helping seniors without conflicting interests is a defining characteristic of HICAP counselors, setting them apart from other professionals in the field.