Freelancers Union

The Freelancer’s Union, a national nonprofit 501(c)(3) organization, supports and represents the increasingly increasing numbers of independent workers in America from Yonkers, New York to Salem, Oregon. It represents the needs of this diverse industry through advocacy, information and service. Just about 30% of today’s workforce in America is made up of independent workers which include freelancers, consultants, temporary employees and other entrepreneurs. As the number of independent entrepreneurs increases, the Freelancer’s Union works to give them a voice. Many occupations are eligible for membership including Accountant, House painter, Messenger, Pawnbroker, Carpenter, Mortgage broker, Cartoonist, Builder and Surveyor.

 How it all Began

Former labor lawyer, Sara Horowitz, founded Working Today in 1995. This was one of the beginning incremental steps in the direction of meeting the needs of the self employed workforce. Working Today introduced the Portable Benefits Network (PBN) in 2001. The goal of Portable Benefits Network was to provide benefits to independent workers who were in New York City’s Silicon Alley. PBN became Freelancer’s Union in May 2003 in an effort to better voice the ideals that direct freelancers as well as better reflect the multitude of services that the organization offers including benefits and advocacy.

Benefits of Membership

The free membership to Freelancer’s Union provides great benefits to the solo business worker. Insurance is one of the main goals of the organization and in some cases it is available. Coverage areas vary by insurance type and there may be some eligibility rules but the Union is working to bring insurance coverage to independent workers in every state. Members also receive discounts from companies such as Allworth Press, The Gym, Theater Extras, Kaufman Center the YMCA of New York City as well as many others.

The Freelancer’s Union also facilitates classes on many topics including legal, business and taxes. They also organize advocacy campaigns in an effort to promote [fair taxes, better options for insurance and increased visibility|better insurance, increased recognition and reasonable taxes|better options for insurance, reduced taxes and public relations} for independent workers.

Members can also publish a profile in the Freelancer’s Union’s online community and even set up their own listing in the Freelancer’s Yellow Pages. They can also access the Gigs board to find jobs and hook up with other members, other independent workers.

Union Sponsored Events The Freelancer’s Union sponsors many promotional events that are designed to help self employed workers network and learn more about protecting themselves and operating a more profitable business. One of the networking opportunities is through Meetup.com. Members from all over the USA can sign up and connect to each other on MeetUp. Other events that the Union hosts are classes on skill building on both a personal and professional level. Seminar topics can range from Preparing Your Federal Tax Return, Strategies for Making and Maintaining Business Connections to Maximizing Your Knowledge in Order to Minimize Your Frustration. There is a complete list on the Union’s website.

Advocacy

The Freelancer’s Union promotes awareness on concerns that affect the steadily growing number of independent workers in America. Issues such as access to health insurance, saving for retirement and employment laws are all on the front burner for the advocacy section of the Freelancer’s Union.

The freelancer’s Union is vital for the independent worker. There are significant benefits to membership and the value is limitless.

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