Your acting journey is filled with unforgettable moments – your first callback, first paycheck, and the thrill of a glowing review. One major milestone that stands out? Becoming a member of SAG-AFTRA.
Representing over 160,000 professionals in the entertainment industry, the Screen Actors Guild-American Federation of Television and Radio Artists offers its members improved working conditions, protections, and a wealth of career opportunities.
If this milestone is on your radar, here’s a step-by-step guide to help you navigate the path to SAG-AFTRA membership.
About SAG-AFTRA Membership
Before you begin the process, it’s important to grasp the essentials of the union – its benefits, requirements, and what it takes to become SAG-eligible.
What is SAG-AFTRA and What Are Its Benefits?
SAG-AFTRA, short for the Screen Actors Guild-American Federation of Television and Radio Artists, is a union representing performers like film and TV actors, broadcast journalists, radio hosts, and other media professionals across the globe. Its primary mission? To negotiate better wages and working conditions for its members through Collective Bargaining Agreements (CBAs) with production companies.
Membership comes with a host of perks. Members are entitled to guaranteed minimum pay rates for SAG projects in film, TV show, or radio gig. Plus, there are additional benefits like health insurance, pension plans, discounts on services, and even legal support when disputes arise in your career.
What Does It Mean to Be SAG-AFTRA Eligible?
Being SAG-AFTRA eligible means you’ve met the necessary criteria to join the union. While you’re not yet a member, you’ve unlocked the door to begin the application process whenever you’re ready. There are several pathways to achieve this status.
Joining SAG-AFTRA: Eligibility and Requirements
What Are the 3 Ways to Get Into SAG-AFTRA?
There are three main ways to become an official SAG-AFTRA member:
- Union-Affiliated Work:
Getting hired on a union project as a performer is the most straightforward way to join. In cases where non-union actors are cast, the production company submits a Taft-Hartley Waiver to allow their participation. Accessing union auditions often requires working with an agent, though platforms like Actors Access and Casting Networks can also connect you with casting calls.
- Background Actor Vouchers:
Accumulate three vouchers by working as a background actor on SAG projects. Once you hit this threshold, you’re eligible to apply.
- Sister Union Membership:
If you’ve been an active member of a related union like ACTRA, AEA, AGMA, or AGVA for at least one year and worked as a principal performer under their jurisdiction, you qualify for SAG-AFTRA membership.
Regardless of the path, you’ll need to officially contact SAG to begin the joining process.
The Application Process
How Much Does It Cost to Join SAG-AFTRA?
Membership involves two primary costs: the initial membership fee and annual dues. Currently, the initiation fee is $3,000.
Annual dues are split into two components:
- A base cost of $236.60 per year.
- Work dues at a rate of 1.575% of your earnings from SAG projects, capped at $1,000,000.
For instance, in your first year as a member without landing a SAG gig, your total dues would amount to $3,236.60. In a subsequent year where you earn $12,000 from SAG projects, your dues would be $425.60, calculated as $236.60 (base) + $189 (1.575% of $12,000).
What to Expect During the Application Process
Applying to join SAG-AFTRA involves multiple steps, each requiring careful attention to detail. Here’s a breakdown of what you can expect during the process, from checking your eligibility to finalizing your membership.
Step 1: Confirm Your Eligibility
Begin by visiting the SAG-AFTRA online eligibility checker. This tool verifies whether your work history meets the criteria for membership. If your records are incomplete or missing, you’ll need to provide supporting documentation directly to SAG-AFTRA to establish your eligibility.
Step 2: Gather Required Documentation
If the union doesn’t already have your work history on file, you’ll need to collect specific documents as proof of your professional activity on union-affiliated projects. The most commonly accepted forms of documentation include:
- Paycheck Stubs: These should include critical details such as your name, social security number, dates of employment, wages earned, the production title, and the signatory company.
- Performer Contract: This is the original contract that outlines your role, compensation, and production details, ensuring all required information is included.
- Payroll Printout: A comprehensive payroll record containing your name, social security number, production details, employment dates, and wages paid.
These documents help confirm your work on union-approved projects, a crucial requirement for joining.
Step 3: Submit Your Documentation
Once you’ve gathered your paperwork, submit it to your nearest SAG-AFTRA office. You can either visit the office in person or send the documents via email to employmentverification@sagaftra.org. Ensure that all files are complete and accurate to avoid delays in processing.
Step 4: Verify Your Submission
After submitting your documents, SAG-AFTRA will review your eligibility and verify the authenticity of your work history. If any additional information is required, they will contact you for clarification or further documentation.
Step 5: Schedule an Admissions Appointment
Once your eligibility is confirmed, the next step is to schedule an admissions appointment at your local SAG-AFTRA office. During this appointment:
- Review Membership Fees: Be prepared to pay the initial membership fee of $3,000, along with the base annual dues of $236.60.
- Understand Member Obligations: You’ll receive an overview of member responsibilities, including abiding by union rules and paying work dues on future SAG projects.
- Complete the Paperwork: Finalize your membership by signing the necessary forms and agreements.
Step 6: Welcome to SAG-AFTRA!
After completing your admissions appointment and paying your fees, you’ll officially become a SAG-AFTRA member. You’ll receive a membership card and gain access to a range of benefits, including union representation, health and pension plans, and resources to help you navigate your acting career.
Joining SAG-AFTRA is a significant milestone that can elevate your acting career by providing better opportunities, protections, and resources. Understand the eligibility requirements, preparing your documentation, and navigating the application process with care, you’ll be well on your way to becoming part of this esteemed union.
With dedication and preparation, you can unlock the benefits of membership and take your career to new heights.
