[p1w1]

I'm thinking of changing from Lloyds and joining the fsb for there free banking not so much because its cheaper banking but i will get the benefit of some of the fsb's offerings like legal tax help etc while saving money on my business banking as with lloyds i get no benefit from using them and when i tried lowering my monthly fees before with them i found them rude and unhelpful . Does anyone use them for this and are you happy with the service?

paul 

[Slash]

If it's anything like their own brand food stay well clear!

[lukeg]

I've been with them for a year and very happy with the service and for me it's peace of mind having the backing of the fsb if ever needed

[Paul Coleman]

It seems OK for what it is.
For sole trader, I think FSB membership is £120 a year (more for 1st year).  As you say, you get tax investigation assistance with that if ever needed so the fee is worth it for that alone.  By the time you claim tax and class 4 NI relief on the FSB fee, the real cost is more like £80
The Co-op account is cheaper than free as you get a £25 annual bonus.
So basically, you get a business banking account for £55 a year with tax investigation insurance thrown in - plus any of the other things on offer if you want to use them.
The only small down side is the odd telemarketer trying to sell you something while trying to make it appear that they are representing the FSB.

[stuart mc]

paid the money and was turned down for the banking never renewed