FSB. worth joining?

[d5hef]

Chaps

I am currently in business startup mode and have read with interest many posts giving advice at this time. Also caught the sticky at the top on business banking. The Co-op account really appeals with its low/ zero charges, loyalty bonus etc etc. I also note that you have to be a member of the FSB (federation of small businesses) to qualify.

My question really revolves around is the account, legal/ tax advice and discounted insurance enough to justify the £150 + £30 joining fee. Will I cover those costs from the savings in bank charges when compared to starting a bank with one of the bigger high street banks?

What other benefits have people enjoyed?

Cheers

[Eric Mc]

For those who do not belong to a profesional body or a trade association, then I think the FSB is excellent. They issue a number of magazines during the year (both UK wide and local) with lots of useful articles on legislation changes and updates relevenat to small businesses. They also have regular newtworkiung meeetings and functions which may be useful - if you want to attend. I think membership also comes witha free legal help lone - which could be very useful.

[drivin_me_nuts]

yes definately . Join for two major reasons

1. Legal protecetion: helpful being able to free, unlimited legal advice

2. Free banking and reduced Streamline EPOS rates

[magic torch]

Worth joining, shame about all the junk mail.

[Ricardo Bertone]

Masonic Order or Church of Scientology would pay better dividends.

[Eric Mc]

I don't know if I'd fancy Tom Cruise as a client.

[ScottNicol]

to be honest it didnt benefit me one bit , but as others said there is benefits to it, the free unlimited legal advice being one of the best things about it.

[Lurking Lawyer]

ScottNicol said:

the free unlimited legal advice being one of the best things about it.

My firm provides that advice and does a lot of work on behalf of FSB members.

It's very helpful to have if you end up getting into a dispute but you should be aware that it's not unlimited (there is a cap on the legal expenses insurance cover provided - £50K, from memory) and (b) the policy specifically excludes certain types of dispute, most notably contractual disputes.

It does over things like property and employment disputes, as well as regulatory offences (trading standards, environmental health etc)

[Plotloss]

'Er indoors had an employment law question today that the REC refused to answer and a government body who control this particular process couldnt answer either.

FSB called, called back within 10 minutes and quoted case law and examples of this exact circumstance.

Very much worthwhile I would say.