This article explains how to book a paid 1-hour call with an expert freelancer via Malt's micro-consulting feature.
In summary:
- Book a 1-hour call with an expert for targeted advice.
- Prices shown already include Malt fees — no extra client charges.
- Payment is taken at booking and finalized after the call is confirmed.
What is the micro-consulting feature?
The micro-consulting feature lets you book a paid 1-hour call with an expert freelancer directly on Malt to quickly get advice, feedback, or strategic guidance on a specific topic.
Whether you need to validate an idea, challenge a strategy, solve a technical problem, or get expert input, you can quickly access experienced specialists without committing to a longer project.
Which freelancers are available for calls?
This feature is currently in a very early beta phase.
For now, only a small group of carefully selected freelancers have access. Freelancers are chosen based on advanced criteria, including:
- Strong expertise in high-demand fields
- High level of seniority and experience
- High-quality profile and solid track record
We are starting with a premium selected group to ensure an excellent experience, then we will gradually open access to more freelancers.
How much does it cost?
All prices shown are hourly rates that already include Malt fees.
There are no additional client-side fees: the price displayed is the final price you pay.
For now, consultations are available only in 1-hour format, but other formats may be added later.
How does it work?
Booking a consultation is simple:
- Browse expert profiles and choose the freelancer you want to speak with.
- Select an available slot in the freelancer's calendar.
- Share context or questions in advance (some freelancers may request information upfront to better prepare for the call).
- Pay securely by credit card to confirm the booking.
- Receive a Google Meet link by email for the session.
- Speak with the freelancer and get advice tailored to your needs.
When will I be charged?
The session is prepaid at the time of booking, but payment is only finalized once the freelancer and you confirm the call took place (you have 10 days to confirm after the call).
This ensures a secure experience for both clients and freelancers.
Can I communicate with the freelancer before the session?
Yes. Once your booking is confirmed, you can exchange messages with the freelancer through the existing Malt conversation.
You can use the conversation to:
- Share documents
- Explain your objectives
- Ask questions before the session
- Agree on another meeting date if needed
Where can I find my bookings?
Your Micro-consulting bookings are available from your Projects list.
From the Order page, you can:
- View your booking details
- Message the freelancer
- Join the Google Meet session
- Add the meeting to your calendar
- Cancel your booking
Can I cancel my booking?
Yes. You can cancel your booking directly from the Order page, only before the call happens.
If you cancel your session, you will be automatically refunded in full.
What happens if the freelancer or I can't attend the session?
We recommend first contacting each other through the Malt conversation.
If you both agree, you can simply schedule another date and reuse the original Google Meet link, which remains active after the initial meeting time.
If you cannot reach an agreement, you can report the issue through Malt's existing dispute process within 10 days after the scheduled session.
What happens if the session lasts less than one hour?
Micro-consulting sessions are sold as fixed one-hour consultations.
If you and the freelancer decide to end the session before the hour is over, the service is still considered delivered. The price remains the same.
What happens if we need more time?
The session price is fixed for one hour.
If you need additional advice after the session, you can:
- Book another Micro-consulting session with the same freelancer.
- Start a standard Malt project if your needs have evolved into a larger collaboration.
What happens if a dispute is opened?
If a dispute is opened, Customer Care will investigate the situation.
During the investigation:
- Automatic validation of the session is paused.
- Payment remains on hold.
- The investigation period can last up to 45 days.
To be eligible for a dispute, it must be reported within 10 days after the scheduled session. To open a dispute, you can read this article, and at the end you’ll have a form to fill out.
Will the Google Meet link still work if we reschedule?
Yes. The Google Meet link remains active after the scheduled session date.
If you and the freelancer agree to reschedule through the Malt conversation, you can simply reuse the same meeting link.
Is Micro-consulting available to everyone?
Micro-consulting has been available since June 25th, 2026 for a first group of clients with Prepayment enabled.
Access is being progressively expanded to additional clients over time.