Whether you’re creating a feature, a commercial, or anything in between, one of the first decisions a producer must make is whether or not to cast SAG actors. While the union hosts some of the best talent in the world, working with the Screen Actors Guild comes with its own set of rules.
And the most important rule? SAG actors must be paid according to SAG rates.
At its core, SAG rates are the minimum amounts of money talent must be paid for a given production. However, determining which rate applies to your production can be a difficult and confusing process.
With multiple rate sheets and an array of complex terms, calculating your production’s SAG rates can be harder than casting your actors.
Luckily, we’ve put together this comprehensive guide. Below, we’ll break down the 2024 SAG rates, so that you can budget with more confidence and greater accuracy.
SAG-AFTRA rates are the minimum amounts of money the Screen Actors Guild will allow its members to work for on a given project. Offered on both a daily and weekly scale, SAG rates are often determined by the project type, budget constraints, and distribution plan.
Using this information, you can determine which SAG agreement your production falls under. From there, you find the relevant fees.
Hiring talent on SAG weekly rates (five-day basis) does result in a per day discount. However, that does mean each performer on a weekly contract remains on their weekly contract for the rest of production. There is no conversion from a weekly contract.
It’s important to note that you’ll likely have to pay up to an additional 21% on your SAG payroll for health and benefits called “fringes.” However, depending on the agreement, this percentage may fluctuate. See details for specific agreements below.
Additionally, you’ll need to ensure that you have a production insurance policy that’s SAG-friendly. Luckily insurance providers like Wrapbook can spin up a policy that’s SAG compliant at lowest possible cost to you.
Before diving in, it’s critical to create a detailed budget for your production, as this will partially determine your specific SAG rates. Before you can roll the camera, you’ll have to submit both a budget and a copy of your screenplay to SAG.
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