Money saving tips for trainees

We understand that surgeons in training may need a little help financially, and so we’ve set out a few ways below for you to make some savings, including a new TOTUM discount card in association with NUS, tax back on fees and paying in instalments.

• TOTUM in association with NUS Extra discount card
• Tax back on professional fees and subscriptions
• Membership fee discounts and instalments
• The Money Advice Service
  
  

TOTUM in association with NUS Extra discount card

Membership of the Royal College of Surgeons provides trainees with a range of benefits. Trainees can now apply to buy an TOTUM card in association with NUS Extra for up to three years. The TOTUM card offers up to 200 discounts that can be used online and in store.

Discounts include:

• Up to 30% off at Pizza Express
• 20% off National Express
• 25% off student ticket prices at Odeon cinemas

A 1 year card is £12, a 2 year card is £22 or a 3 year card is £32. For more information about the range of discounts, or to buy a card, please visit the TOTUM in association with NUS Extra site.

How to apply

To apply, you’ll need to email membership@rcseng.ac.uk and ask for your unique TOTUM code. Don't forget to specify your RCS membership number in your email. Once you have this code, you can apply via the NUS website

There is an NUS and TOTUM app and to keep a track of available discounts.

Download the NUS Extra app for iPhone

Download the NUS Extra app for Android

Downlaod the TOTUM app for iPhone

Download the TOTUM app for Android

Tax back on professional fees and subscriptions

If you are a UK taxpayer then you may be able to claim a tax rebate on professional fees and subscriptions.

The Royal College of Surgeons is an HMRC approved (List 3) professional body. As your membership fees are related to your employment then you may be allowed to claim tax relief on these payments, thereby reducing the cost of your fee.

You may also be entitled to claim tax relief on the fee for your MRCS and FRCS exams.

How much will I get back?

This depends on a number of factors including your membership fees, salary and tax situation.

How do I claim?

To claim, you will need to contact HMRC.

If you need a receipt for your membership fees please get in touch with the membership team on membershipmail@rcseng.ac.uk.

Membership fee discounts and instalments

Discounted rates are available to members who are working part-time, are unemployed or on maternity/paternity leave.

You can spread the costs of your membership fee by paying in monthly instalments by Direct Debit.

If you wish to discuss the payment options or discounts available to you, please contact our membership team using the details below.

The Money Advice Service

The Money Advice Service is a not for profit government organisation created to help people with their finances. They do this through their free and impartial advice service, and by working in partnership with other organisations to help people make the most of their money. For top money-saving tips visit the the Money Advice Service website.