subject: National Association Of The Self Employed - An Objective Review [print this page] An organization that is dedicated to helping people who have their own businesses is The National Association of the Self Employed (NASE). The group allows its members access to resources that encourage the well-being of the individual as well as their businesses. Through membership, NASE also offers the ability to access ways to save money on personal and business-related expenses. The organization also boasts alliances with health insurance companies that help self employed people save money with health plans they can afford.
Options for membership in The National Association of the Self Employed range from $15 (Silver) to $45 (Gold). The base membership, Silver, includes discounts on office products, rental cars, hotels, medical cards and some auto and home insurance discounts. The best deal is the Gold membership which comes with everything included in the Silver package plus free roadside assistance, doctor consultations, web site design and hosting, life insurance and many, many other services that can benefit small businesses.
One drawback, however, is that some of the benefits may not suit everyone's needs. There have been complaints about a National Association of Self Employed "scam" regarding the limitations of the health benefits. In several forums, people have shared that they are displeased with the actual service of their health insurance acquired through NASE. So, while some of the perks are helpful, the more important ones may not meet or exceed a small business owner's expectations.
The National Association of the Self Employed claims to offer a few business development grants and college scholarships for dependents. The organization also offers a very helpful service in terms of having an online portal for discount office and travel purchases. The use of this portal can be very beneficial, for frequent travelers and consistent users, because of the ability to accumulate points leading to free hotel stays and other discounts.
NASE also lobbies for small business owners in the U.S. Congress by sharing stories provided by self employed people. The group publishes a newsletter to update members on legislation that could affect the nature of small businesses or home based businesses. You might ask what kind of issues need to be brought to Washington's attention. One very significant issue is the impact of taxes on your small business. Another issue is the vast difference between your access to health care vs. the access enjoyed by employees of larger corporations. Finally, NASE states that it speaks on behalf of the self employed so that their needs concerning tax policy and affordable health care are given great consideration both in the marketplace and in the halls of Congress.
