The Screen Actors Guild (SAG) Basic Agreement is a set of guidelines governing the wages, working conditions, and benefits for actors working on film, television, and other media productions. Understanding SAG Basic Agreement rates is crucial for actors, producers, and anyone else involved in the entertainment industry.
The SAG Basic Agreement outlines the minimum wage rates for actors in various categories, including principal performers, stunt performers, background actors, and voice-over actors. These rates are based on the type of production, the budget, and the length of the project. For example, the minimum daily rate for a principal performer on a high-budget theatrical production is $1,030, while the minimum daily rate for a principal performer on a low-budget web series is $335.
In addition to the minimum wage rates, the SAG Basic Agreement also sets forth guidelines for overtime pay, travel expenses, per diem allowances, and other benefits. For example, actors are entitled to a per diem allowance of $65 per day for meals and incidentals when working on location. They are also entitled to overtime pay when they work more than 8 hours in a day or 40 hours in a week.
The SAG Basic Agreement also includes provisions for residual payments, which are payments made to actors for the reuse of their work in various media formats. These payments are based on the type of media and the length of time the work is used. For example, a principal performer on a theatrical film is entitled to a residual payment of 3.6% of the distributor`s gross receipts for the first $1 million and 4.5% for any amount above $1 million.
It is important to note that the SAG Basic Agreement rates are only the minimums. Producers are free to offer higher rates to actors if they choose, and many do in order to attract top talent. Actors may also negotiate their own rates based on their experience, reputation, and other factors.
In conclusion, understanding the SAG Basic Agreement rates is essential for anyone in the entertainment industry. It sets forth the minimum wage rates, benefits, and residual payments that actors are entitled to, which helps ensure fair compensation and working conditions. However, it is also important to remember that these rates are only the minimums and that producers and actors can negotiate higher rates based on their individual circumstances.
