acting in your interest
DESCRIPTION
Acting In Your InterestTRANSCRIPT
ACTING IN YOUR INTEREST
Screen Actors Guild is the nation’s largest labor union representing
working actors. Established in 1933, SAG has a rich history
in the American union movement, from standing up to studios
to break long-term engagement contracts in the 1940s to
fighting for artists’ rights amid the digital revolution sweeping
the entertainment industry in the 21st century. SAG is a proud
affiliate of the AFL-CIO. Headquartered in Los Angeles, you can
visit SAG online at sag.org.
ABOUT THE GUILD
WHAT MEMBErsHIp MEAns .......................................................2
BEnEfITs Of MEMBErsHIp ..........................................................4
sUppOrT AnD EDUcATIOn prOGrAMs ...................................6
sTAy cOnnEcTED OnLInE ...........................................................8
HOnOrInG yOUr pEErs............................................................10
ADvOcATInG TO prOTEcT yOU ................................................12
GOvErnAncE AnD cOMMITTEE sErvIcE ...............................14
sUppOrTInG OTHEr UnIOns ...................................................15
cOnTrAcTs ...................................................................................16
AGEncy rELATIOns ....................................................................16
sTUnT, sInGErs, DAncErs & sAfETy ....................................16
AffIrMATIvE AcTIOn & DIvErsITy ........................................17
yOUnG pErfOrMErs .................................................................18
MAInTAInInG yOUr MEMBErsHIp .........................................19
HOW TO rEAcH sAG ...................................................................21
TABLE Of cOnTEnTs
ABOUT THE GUILD
©2011 Screen Actors Guild, Inc., 5757 Wilshire Blvd., Los Angeles, CA 90036-3600.
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OUr LEGAcy
Imagine working on a film with unrestricted hours, no enforced turnaround and no required meal breaks. Imagine working under a seven-year contract
that you cannot break and more than likely will be forced to renew,
for a producer who can tell you who you can marry, what your morals must be, even what political opinions to hold. This was Hollywood for actors in 1933 under the studio system. Rebel against the studio and you were in for a hard time; better to quit while you were ahead. Fortunately, a group of actors risked their careers to start Screen Actors Guild. In 1937, the studios signed a contract with the Guild that, for the first time in Hollywood, gave actors a sense of empowerment.
OUr MIssIOn
With 20 Branches across the United States, Screen Actors Guild represents more than125,000 actors who work in film and digital
motion pictures and television programs, commercials, video
games, industrials, Internet and all new media formats. The Guild exists to enhance actors’ working conditions, compensation and benefits, and to be a powerful, unified voice on behalf of artists’ rights.
JOInInG
SAG membership is a significant rite of passage for every working actor. A performer becomes eligible for SAG membership under one of the following general conditions: proof of sag employment as a principal actor, proof of three days of sag employment as a background actor, or employment under an affiliated performers’ union. If you are not already a member, we urge you to consider joining SAG when you meet SAG eligibility. But understand it is a commitment. Once you are a member, you must abide by the rules of membership, starting with Global Rule One. To learn more about joining and to check your eligibility, visit sag.org/join.
Screen Actors Guild is the most distinguished performers’ union in the world. Our members are experienced professionals who have negotiated basic standards of working conditions, compensation and benefits. Membership is often a major milestone in an actor’s career; every SAG card issued symbolizes success and solidarity with a community of more than 125,000 talented and accomplished artists worldwide.
MEMBErsHIp
Screen Actors Guild founders2
MEMBErsHIp GLOBAL rULE OnE
Global Rule One states: No member shall work as a performer
or make an agreement to
work as a performer for any producer who has not executed a basic minimum agreement with the Guild which is in full force and effect. Simply put, a SAG member must always work under a union contract around the globe, and must NEVER work non-union. SAG members benefit from the protections of SAG collective bargaining agreements anywhere they work in the world. Working without a SAG contract harms your earning power and erodes the hard-won gains of our union, which hurts all actors. By requiring SAG contracts for every SAG member on every job, we can ensure all actors are fairly compensated for their work. Because SAG members have abided by Rule One, millions of dollars in contributions have been made into the pension and health funds that otherwise would have been lost. SAG takes Rule One very seriously; violating it can result in disciplinary actions ranging from fines to expulsion. It is each member’s responsibility to ensure that a producer is a SAG signatory and to get a SAG contract wherever they work in order to get the protections of SAG agreements, even when working outside of the United States.
nEW MEMBEr OrIEnTATIOn
Once you get your SAG card, learn what SAG has to offer by attending a New Member Orientation. The program covers everything from an explanation of initiation fees and health coverage to the correct way to execute reports and contracts. It is also a good idea for veteran actors to attend an orientation to find out about new Guild resources. Check with your local office for the next scheduled orientation.
Members show off their cards.
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BEnEfITs
HEALTH cOvErAGE
One of the primary benefits of working under SAG contracts is participation in the Screen Actors Guild-Producers Pension and Health Plans. When you meet applicable earnings thresholds, you and your dependents have access to medical and hospital benefits, prescription drug plans, supplemental vision and dental benefits, substance abuse treatment and mental health programs and life insurance. Performers who accrue the required minimum earnings under SAG contracts are eligible for 12 months of coverage in the health plan, provided the applicable premiums are paid. There is also an alternative eligibility based on number of days of covered employment if you don’t meet the monetary requirements. The health plan has two levels, Plan I and Plan II, based on the amount of your covered earnings. Both plans cover your legal spouse or same-sex domestic partner and dependent children. Previously qualified members who do not meet the eligibility requirements in a given year can enroll in a self-pay program to maintain coverage for up to 18 months. If certain criteria are met, self-pay can continue beyond 18 months.
In addition to the contract provisions that are part of our collective bargaining agreements, SAG membership provides a range of benefits that enhance both the professional and personal lives of our members.
pEnsIOn
When you work under SAG contracts, employers make contributions toward your pension. A member earns one pension credit for each calendar year in which the minimum earnings requirement is met. Requirements are subject to change by the trustees of SAG-Producers Pension and Health Plans. Visit sagph.org for earning qualifications and more information about the SAG-Producers Pension and Health Plans. In California, call (818) 954-9400; outside California (800) 777-4013. This description is only a general summary of the plans. Plan eligibility and benefits are governed by the plans and, in the event of any inconsistency, plan documents control.
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BEnEfITsPension, health and contract benefits are just the beginning. sag staff work across the nation to protect your interests, and members have access to programs and seminars that foster professional and artistic development to help them achieve financial, personal and professional goals. additional benefits include:
•Conservatory Training Programs for Actors•Consumer Deals and Discounts•E-Blast Updates and Regional Casting News•Federal Credit Union Membership•Film Society Screening Series•Film/TV Production Listings in Your Area•Membership and Informational Meetings•National and Local Guild Publications• iActor SAG-Only Online Casting Service•Professional Development Workshops and Special Events•Residuals Tracker on the SAG Website•Run for Elected Office; Serve on Local/National Committees•SAG Awards Voting Privileges and Screenings•SAG Foundation Conversations and LifeRaft Workshops•Union Plus Scholarships and Discounts on Products & Services•Voting on SAG Contracts, National/Local Elections and Other IssuesBenefits vary by location. Check with your local office for complete details.
crEDIT UnIOn MEMBErsHIp
Screen Actors Guild is proud to be affiliated with these financial institutions:
aFTRa-sag Federal Credit Union(818) 562-3400(800) 826-6946 (outside Los Angeles)aftrasagfcu.org
actors Federal Credit Union(212) 869-8926(800) 222-8677 (outside New York City)actorsfcu.com
Both credit unions offer new member initiation fee loans.
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The screen actors guild Foundation (SAGFoundation.org) is an educational, humanitarian and philanthropic 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization founded in 1985. The SAG Foundation is independent from SAG but offers substantive services to qualifying Guild members free of charge, such as career-enhancing workshops, seminars and events with industry professionals. And because many of its programs are either streamed live online or recorded for viewing later, members across the country are able to take advantage of this invaluable service. In addition to its career-focused workshops, the SAG Foundation makes it a priority to help SAG members, whether they seek college scholarships for dependants or financial assistance for medical expenses.
The screen actors guild Motion Picture Players Welfare Fund (SAG.org/mppwf) is an emergency financial assistance fund of the Screen Actors Guild and serves members in the New York region and all Branches east of Omaha, Neb. The SAG MPPWF is designed to assist eligible members who are struggling with a financial, personal or medical crisis. Financial assistance is available for rent, utilities, mental health and medical care, as well as other basic living expenses.
The actors Fund (actorsfund.org) is a nonprofit, nationwide human services organization that helps all professionals in the performing arts and entertainment. The Fund is a safety net, providing programs and services for those who are in need, crisis or transition. The Actors Fund offers a broad spectrum of programs, including comprehensive social services, health care services, career counseling, job training, job placement and housing. Administered through offices in Los Angeles, New York and Chicago, these programs help people solve problems and make positive changes in their lives.
sUppOrT & EDUcATIOn
A membership in Screen Actors Guild can provide access to tools that further your career, consumer discounts and programs for those who may need financial assistance or who are exploring supplemental or alternative career paths.
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sUppOrT & EDUcATIOn
Career Transition for Dancers (careertransition.org) is a nonprofit organization that assists dancers in defining career possibilities and developing rewarding post-performance careers. With offices in Los Angeles, New York and Chicago, and a mobile outreach program, CTFD provides one-on-one counseling, educational scholarships and
grants to start new businesses, career conversations and computer classes–all free of charge for eligible dancers.
Healthcare assistance: The above groups, as well as the Motion Picture & Television Fund (mptvfund.org), can advise you and help you to understand your options in health care coverage.
Union Plus (unionplus.org) offers many consumer-related discounts, education loans and scholarships. Because of your SAG membership, you and your family can save on phone service, the purchase of a new car, dental and vision care, a mortgage and refinancing, legal services, tax preparation, entertainment discounts, travel and much more.
Deals and Discounts are also available to SAG members on everything from phone service to gym memberships to local services in your area. Log in to SAG.org and look for “Deals and Discounts” under the Member Services tab. Show your card and save!
Tax assistance: Help is available to members in some cities during tax season; volunteer Guild members are trained by the Internal Revenue Service to assist SAG members. Contact your local office for more information about this free service.
iactor is the only online casting directory that
exclusively features SAG members. After uploading a resume, headshots and reels, SAG members are at the fingertips of the industry’s top casting professionals. Log in to your member account on SAG.org to learn how you can be part of the casting revolution.
The sag Conservatory was launched more than 35 years ago and offers a variety of acting workshops in select locations across the nation. The conservatory is a place for members to hone their skills and network with professionals (at a low cost or in some cases free). While not a formal training program, the conservatory is a way for SAG members to gain meaningful experience. Check with your local SAG office about a conservatory in your area.
The sag Film society is a paid membership service for Hollywood and New York members that allows you and a guest to view current releases with fellow SAG members for a fraction of the cost.
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As a member of Screen Actors Guild, you are a part of a greater community of professional actors working together to achieve mutual goals, so it’s important to stay connected and informed. SAG publishes a national magazine, Screen Actor, which is mailed to paid-up members. Divisions and Branches regularly produce their own electronic and printed communications featuring local news and benefits, as well.
sTAy cOnnEcTED
iactor, which allows members to post their resume, headshots, clips and more. This is the only online casting service exclusively for SAG members that also allows casting professionals to search for and clear SAG talent for work via online Station 12.
Production Lists advise members of casting opportunities in their region for both principal and background actors.
Contact Updates allows performers to add or update their contact information online. Keeping your contact and agency info current ensures that you receive residual payments and that casting directors and producers using SAG’s “Actors to Locate” service can easily find you.
SAG encourages you to register at sag.org to receive contract updates, e-newsletters, casting information, career workshop and seminar announcements, news about SAG Awards and messages from your elected leaders. You can also follow us on Facebook (facebook.com/screenactorsguild) and Twitter (twitter.com/screenactors), and download the SAG iPhone app. By registering online at SAG.org, members have access to information they need, when they need it. It is an important tool for working actors and the industry professionals who hire them. Members must be registered online to take full advantage of these services:
Residuals Tracker allows members to follow their TV and theatrical residuals through the received payment and mail process. SAG AWARDS® PREVIEW
Volume 51, Number 4
Screen Actors Guild Magazine
FALL/WINTER 2010
Ernest Borgnine
LIFE
ACHIEVEMENT HONOREE
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sTAy cOnnEcTED
Contract Information to help answer basic member questions on the job. Need to know if you are entitled to overtime or meal penalties? These answers and contract summaries are online.
signatory Database allows performers to check the signatory status of any project at any time, making it easier for members to comply with Rule One, which requires a member confirm a project is signed with SAG before accepting employment.
Electronic Billing and Dues Online allows members to go paperless, receive their dues bill electronically and pay online.
agency Information assists members in locating SAG-approved talent agencies.
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SAG AWARDS® PREVIEWVolume 51, Number 4
Screen Actors Guild Magazine
FALL/WINTER 2010
Ernest Borgnine
LIFE
ACHIEVEMENT HONOREE
sag TV presents informative career and Guild-related videos, such as SAG On Your Side.
thesagshop.com offers a line of quality union-made SAG-branded apparel and merchandise. You’ll find great gift ideas as well as clothing to show off your union pride.
Member Benefits are deals and discounts for SAG members only–ranging from event invites to restaurant savings to auto discounts. Screen Actor magazine is available online as a digital version for viewing by members only.
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Screen Actors Guild members have the opportunity to be recognized by their peers for their outstanding performances and their invaluable service to fellow members.
The screen actors guild Life achievement award is the Guild’s highest honor and is bestowed for outstanding career achievement and humanitarian accomplishment, fostering the finest ideals of the acting profession. Nominated and voted on by the Guild’s National Honors and Tributes Committee, the award has been bestowed for the last five decades to actors such as Clint Eastwood, Audrey Hepburn, Bob Hope, James Earl Jones, Paul Newman, Elizabeth Taylor and Betty White. The honor is handed out each year during the Screen Actors Guild Awards telecast.
The screen actors guild awards has become one of the industry’s most prized honors ceremonies. The only televised awards show to exclusively honor performers and acknowledge the work of union members, The Actor® is presented in 13 categories for acting in film and TV. The awards focus on both individual performances as well as television and motion picture ensembles. These honors are fundamental to the spirit of the SAG Awards because they recognize what all actors know–that acting is a collaborative art. Just prior to the broadcast ceremony, SAG also honors the outstanding performances by TV and film stunt ensembles. The SAG Awards is unique in the size of its voting body. Two randomly selected panels of 2,100 SAG members from across the United States select the nominees for television and motion pictures. The final ballot then goes out to the entire active membership of the Guild, which collectively selects the outstanding performances of the year. The SAG
Awards also benefits the Screen Actors Guild Foundation. For more information, visit sagawards.org.
The Ralph Morgan award is given by the Hollywood Division for distinguished service to the Guild’s Hollywood membership. The honor is named for SAG’s first president, who led the fight to establish a union for screen actors in 1933.
The Joseph C. Riley award is presented by the New York Division to members who have shown dedicated service on a particular committee. Riley made his mark in the 1980s as a devoted SAG committee member and a major force behind establishing Manhattan Plaza as actors’ housing.
The Howard Keel award is awarded by the Regional Branch Division to persons who make a significant contribution to the welfare and benefit of members in their Branch. It is named after SAG’s 10th president, during whose term the SAG National Board was increased from 39 to 52 seats, allowing for Branch representation for the first time.
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HOnOrInG yOUr pEErs
CLOCKWIsE: The Actor statuette, SAG Life Achievement Award, Ralph Morgan Award and the cast of Glee at the 16th Annual SAG Awards.
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SAG members and staff advocate to protect your interests.
sAG ADvOcATEs
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LEGIsLATIvE ADvOcAcy sAfEGUArDs yOUr InTErEsTsThe Guild advocates for a legislative and regulatory environment that protects and supports its members, developing and managing strategies to inform and influence public policy at city, state, federal and international levels. This is achieved by monitoring legislative and regulatory activity, conducting lobbying and grassroots campaigns, participating in national and local coalitions, creating forums and educational tools and promoting positive relations with other organizations. We work closely with other entertainment unions and guilds, outside advocacy organizations, as well as the larger labor movement, to ensure coordinated approaches on government relations at all levels. Our efforts range from fighting digital theft and “runaway production” to advocating for fair and just tax laws for artists and the proper protection against unauthorized commercial use of actors’ images through Right of Publicity laws.
nEGOTIATInG WAGEs
The Guild’s basic contracts are negotiated with film, television, commercial and multimedia producers to establish minimum wages and working conditions for actors. Our contracts provide vital protections for today’s performers by keeping pace with advancing technology and ever-expanding broadcast platforms. In addition to basic wages and pension contributions, Guild contracts also secure payments for location work, overtime, holidays, travel time, mileage, stunts and wardrobe. The Guild has won residual payments in perpetuity for rebroadcast of all current films, TV shows and TV commercials. Salaries and working conditions continue to improve thanks to our collective efforts.
cOnTrAcTs THAT prOTEcT MEMBErs On THE JOB
Guild contracts require basic wages and protections during production that enable performers to do their best work. Among the Guild’s provisions are travel, private dressing rooms, meal breaks and adequate rest time between calls. Our contracts also require strict safety precautions and first aid on the set, special protections and education for minors, arbitration of disputes and grievances, and include a policy of nondiscrimination and diversity. As a member, you should fully acquaint yourself with these important provisions so that, in cooperation with the Guild’s professional staff and your elected leadership, you can help ensure SAG contracts are fully enforced. It is this combination of efforts that maintains the integrity of our agreements. Via SAGIndie, the outreach program to low-budget filmmakers, thousands of union jobs are created on student and short films, as well as Ultra-Low, Modified-Low and Low-Budget projects. For more information on these opportunities, please visit sagIndie.org or call (323) 549-6064.
LEArn MOrE ABOUT THE AGrEEMEnTs THAT prOTEcT yOU
A range of contract digests, which summarize the terms of SAG agreements covering theatrical motion pictures and television, commercials, new media, interactive, industrial/educational, as well as low-budget agreements for independent filmmakers, are available to members online at sag.org/ProductionCenter.
sAG ADvOcATEs
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GET InvOLvED
GOvErnAncE
The Guild is governed by a National Constitution and By-Laws, which have been written and adopted by performers for the greater good of the whole member-ship. The highest policy-making body of the Guild is the National Board of Directors. Elected by the membership, the National Board is responsible for setting strategic direction and overseeing the general management and control of the affairs, funds and property of the Guild. Elected SAG officers are all volunteers and not paid for their services. You can find the names of your local and national elected leaders online at sag.org.
cOMMITTEE sErvIcE
National Committees are formed to assist the National Board by developing policy recommendations and/or to implement a program for the benefit of performers. Your knowledge and experience is a valuable asset to your Guild and its members. Get involved and volunteer for Guild service. To find out more, visit sag.org and under the About Us tab, click on Governance.
MOVE–Members Organizing Volunteer Efforts–is a member-driven committee dedicated to supporting the initiatives of the Screen Actors Guild and positively influencing the lives of actors and performers. Through training, forums and events, MOVE provides member education, organizes to create more union employment and strengthen existing contracts, and promotes union solidarity within the labor community. To find out about MOVE activities, place your name on the Hollywood Division email list by sending a message to [email protected], and on the New York Division email list by sending a message to [email protected].
Screen Actors Guild is a representative democracy run by members for the benefit of members. SAG encourages all members to actively participate in Guild activities. You can help make critical decisions that impact your union by voting on referenda, serving on the National Board of Directors or a division board and/or joining committees in your area. Let your voice be heard–decisions are made by those who participate.
1940 National Board meeting14
GET InvOLvED
sOLIDArITy
As a member of Screen Actors Guild, you are part of the American labor movement, joining more than 15.3 million American union members. SAG is proud to be part of the AFL-CIO, and many SAG Branches are affiliated with local and state federations of labor. We are also part of the International Federation of Actors (FIA), which includes performers’ unions around the world. With these affiliations come benefits and responsibilities. As a union member, it’s important to be respectful and supportive of labor disputes and strikes. While SAG contracts may require you to report to work during another union’s work stoppage, it’s best to check sag.org or call your local Branch for specific instructions. The Guild supports other unions in many ways, as they support us. We often alert members via e-mail or on the website regarding opportunities to assist other unions and guilds. Please do your part and get involved. That’s what solidarity is all about.
SAG members march in support of working families.
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sAG On yOUr sIDE
One of the most important benefits of Screen Actors Guild membership is the experience and knowledge of the SAG staff. SAG representatives enforce each member’s individual contract provisions and riders. They monitor safety conditions, administer SAG’s agreement with franchised agents and assist members with work-related issues such as discrimination and workers’ compensation claims. Members should call their nearest SAG office and speak to a staff person when questions arise.
cOnTrAcTsThe core mission of Screen Actors Guild is to represent actors by negotiating and enforcing collective bargaining agreements. These agreements require that producers provide fair minimum compensation and benefits, protection of the use of an actor’s likeness or performance, and working conditions that keep actors safe on the set. The Contracts Department is also committed to expanding work opportunities for members and has designed agreements that suit productions made for all media at all budget levels. Members who want more information about these agreements can visit the Production Center at sag.org/ProductionCenter.
AGEncy rELATIOnsThe difference between an aspiring actor and a working actor is often just a good agent that shares your career goals and vision. While we can’t recommend an agent for you, we can direct you to our list of Screen Actors Guild franchised talent agents online at sag.org. Your Agency Department is responsible for facilitating any and all aspects of your relationship with your agent including, but not limited to, responding to your general questions and concerns about the agency relationship; mediating disputes between agents and members and facilitating inexpensive arbitration when necessary; advising members on the terms and conditions of the onerous general service agreements (GSAs) ATA agents are using to represent our members; and maintaining an “Actors to Locate” service for potential employers seeking to hire SAG members.
sTUnT, sInGErs, DAncErs & sAfETyThe Stunt, Singers, Dancers and Safety Department staff is responsible for providing interpretations and enforcement of the terms and conditions for these respective performer groups and safety aspects covered by all of the Guild’s collective bargaining contracts. The staff routinely works with agents, attorneys, studio and production labor relations, agency and advertiser business affairs staff, and other unions to make sure our members are safe at work.
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24-HOUr DIscrIMInATIOn/ HArAssMEnT/AccEssIBILITy HOTLInE:
Members may report casting violations, lack of ADA accommodations or access, and workplace discrimination and harassment based on race/color, national origin, gender identity, marital status, sexual orientation, creed, religion, disability and age by calling (323) 549-6644 in Los Angeles, (212) 827-1542 in New York or via the After Hours Hotline at (800) 724-0767.
sAG On yOUr sIDE
AffIrMATIvE AcTIOn & DIvErsITyScreen Actors Guild supports underemployed and underrepresented actors in their efforts to gain equal employment access and opportunities and a workplace free of discrimination and harassment. The Guild negotiates and enforces non-discrimination provisions in its contracts to ensure that the workplace is accessible and free from discrimination and harassment; educates and empowers members about contract and workplace rights; and advises and consults with industry professionals on issues of diversity, equal employment and non-discrimination. The Guild’s advocacy for the “American Scene” is accomplished through strategy, support and advice for the initiatives of the following member-led national committees: Ethnic Employment Opportunities; Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual and Transgender Actors; Performers With Disabilities; President’s National Task Force for American Indians; Senior Performers; and Women’s. Producers and casting executives are invited to visit sag.org/Diversity and encouraged to contact the department for specialized consultations on casting and hiring diverse actors: [email protected].
John Singleton and Taraji P. Henson
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yOUnG pErfOrMErs If guided carefully, a young performer’s acting career can
provide a head start on adult life by helping in the development of leadership and teamwork skills,
self-confidence and the ability to earn income. But because of the many demands, frustrations
and rejections tied to the industry, minors are particularly vulnerable. While Screen Actors
Guild does its utmost to protect young performers on the job, it is ultimately the parent or guardian’s responsibility to ensure the young performer is being treated fairly and with respect. Parents should familiarize themselves with the various contract protections, applicable state laws and blocked trust accounts (sometimes referred to as Coogan Accounts) created specifically for young performers. Members and their parents
should attend a new member orientation and visit SAG.org/YoungPerformers, a site
designed specifically for young members, featuring an interactive set visit, quizzes,
videos and a downloadable version of the SAG Young Performers Handbook. In addition, for Los
Angeles-based members ages 9-18, The Actors Fund’s Looking Ahead Program (lookingaheadprogram.org)
offers education planning, counseling, community service activities, leadership development and social events.
Young PerformersHandbook
Description___________________________Date ________________________________Presented by _________________________
A Guide for Young Performers
Screen Actors Guild
Couldn’t find something in this book?Call1-800-SAG-0767
Check out SAG.org’s SAG TV for actors telling their member-to-member stories about how the Guild is on your side.
Members at SAG young performers carnival.
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MAInTAInInG yOUr MEMBErsHIpcOnTAcT InfOrMATIOn
It is every member’s responsibility to keep his or her contact information current. You can update your information on the sag.org website or submit changes in writing to Membership Services (see next page for address). Also, the SAG-Producers Pension and Health Plans (sagph.org) office must be notified separately of any change of address.
sAG MEMBErsHIp DUEs
Current annual dues are based on all earnings reported to Pension and Health during the previous calendar year. SAG dues are billed semi-annually on or about May 1 and November 1. All members are strongly encouraged to stay current. If your dues become delinquent, it is possible you will not be cleared for work. Members can register at sag.org to pay dues online and receive paperless electronic billing.
InAcTIvE sTATUs
If you are not actively seeking employment under SAG’s jurisdiction and have been a member of the Guild for 18 months, you may request inactive status. Honorable Withdrawal inactive status occurs when membership dues are current when the request is received. suspended Payment inactive status occurs when a member owes for one or two membership dues periods when the request is received. Although semi-annual base dues are not assessed, members on Honorable Withdrawal or Suspended Payment status will be billed for dues on residuals or other deferred income earnings. Failure to pay percentage dues may result in termination from membership.
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Requests for inactive status must be made in writing to Membership Services. Be sure to include your SAG ID and signature. If your request is granted, you will not be eligible to vote on union matters or for the SAG Awards, and you will not receive Guild publications, communications or invites to member events. You will, however, continue to receive any residuals due to you, and you may reactivate your membership at any time in order to audition or accept work. NOTE: an inactive member continues to be subject to all provisions of the Constitution and By-Laws, as though he or she were an active member.
rEInsTATInG frOM InAcTIvE sTATUs
Inactive status must be maintained for one full year in order to avoid incurring past base dues obligations. Members seeking reinstatement from Suspended Payment status must pay dues owed at time inactive status was granted in addition to current dues and fees. Once reinstated, a member must maintain active membership for one full year from the applicable dues period in which the reinstatement occurred before becoming eligible again for inactive status.
Submit written requests and address changes to: Membership services Department screen actors guild 5757 Wilshire Boulevard, 7th floor Los angeles, Ca 90036 or fax to (323) 549-6775
If you have questions or require more information, call: Membership services Department at (323) 549-6757 or (800) 724-0767
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AssociAted Actors & Artistes of AmericA/AfL-cio
Members c r e e n a c t o r s g u i l d
MEMBER NAMEJOHN DOE
MEMBER NUMBER0000000000
MEMBER SINCE2002
EXPIRESNovember 30, 2011
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SAG GENERAL INFORMATIONToll-free .................................................................................................... (800) 724-0767 Members can reach SAG offices via the toll-free number. The 800 number accesses Hollywood, New York and the following Branches: Arizona, Boston, Chicago, Colorado, Dallas/Ft.Worth, Detroit, Florida (which includes Louisiana, North Carolina and Puerto Rico), Georgia, Hawaii, Houston, Nashville, Nevada, New Mexico, Philadelphia, Portland, San Diego, San Francisco, Seattle, Utah and Washington-Baltimore.
SAG NATIONAL HEADQUARTERS5757 Wilshire Boulevard, Los Angeles, CA 90036-3600Main switchboard phone ................................................................................. (323) 954-1600
NEW YORK SAG OFFICE 360 Madison Avenue, 12th Floor, New York, NY 10017Main switchboard phone ................................................................................. (212) 944-1030
CONTRACTS Background Actors ........................................................................................ (323) 549-6811Commercials/Infomercials ............................................................................... (323) 549-6858Corporate/Educational ...................................................................................(323) 549-6858Dancers .................................................................................................... (323) 549-6864Music Videos...............................................................................................(323) 549-6864 New Media and Interactive ..............................................................................(323) 549-6446Residual Payment Info Center ...........................................................................(323) 549-6505 Singers .....................................................................................................(323) 549-6864 Stunt, Singers, Dancers and Safety ...................................................................... (323) 549-6855 Television ..................................................................................................(323) 549-6835 Theatrical Motion Pictures ................................................................................(323) 549-6828
OTHER SAG DEPARTMENTS Actors to Locate ........................................................................................... (800) 503-6737 Affirmative Action and Diversity ......................................................................... (323) 549-6644 Agent Relations ............................................................................................ (323) 549-6745SAG Awards ................................................................................................ (323) 549-6707Cashiers .................................................................................................... (323) 549-6752Committee Office ......................................................................................... (323) 549-6418Communications........................................................................................... (323) 549-6654Governance ................................................................................................ (323) 549-6676Legal ....................................................................................................... (323) 549-6627Legislation ................................................................................................. (323) 549-6572Membership ............................................................................................... (323) 549-6757iActor Helpdesk ............................................................................................ (323) 549-6789Organizing ................................................................................................. (323) 549-6894Reporting Sexual Harassment/Discrimination ......................................................... (323) 549-6644
CONTACT US
SAG.org / email: [email protected] facebook.com/ScreenActorsGuild twitter.com/ScreenActors