SAG Short Term Agreement Rates: Understanding the Basics

If you are a freelance artist or performer, chances are you have heard of the SAG Short Term Agreement (STA). The STA is a contract between the Screen Actors Guild (SAG) and producers of low-budget films, non-broadcast programs, commercials, and other related projects. As an artist, understanding the basics of SAG STA rates is important because it can impact your earning potential and career growth.

Let’s take a closer look at what SAG short term agreement rates are, how they are determined, and what they mean for freelance artists.

What are SAG Short Term Agreement Rates?

SAG short term agreement rates refer to the minimum wages and working conditions that SAG members are entitled to when they work on STA projects. These rates are determined by SAG and are based on the budget of the project, the length of the shoot, and the role of the performer.

SAG STA rates apply to projects with budgets of up to $700,000 for theatrical films, up to $300,000 for non-theatrical films, and up to $50,000 for commercials. These rates vary depending on whether the project is a theatrical film, non-theatrical film, or commercial.

How are SAG Short Term Agreement Rates Determined?

SAG short term agreement rates are determined by a formula that takes into account the budget of the project, the length of the shoot, and the role of the performer. For example, a leading performer who works on a theatrical film with a budget of up to $700,000 can earn a minimum of $630 per day or $2,190 per week. Supporting performers can earn a minimum of $504 per day or $1,764 per week.

The rates are set by SAG but are subject to negotiation between the producer and the performer. This means that performers can negotiate for higher rates if they have more experience, are in demand, or have a unique skill set that is valuable to the project.

What Do SAG Short Term Agreement Rates Mean for Freelance Artists?

Understanding SAG short term agreement rates is important for freelance artists because it can impact their earning potential and career growth. Freelance artists who work on STA projects can earn a minimum of $630 per day or $2,190 per week if they are leading performers, or a minimum of $504 per day or $1,764 per week if they are supporting performers. These rates can be negotiated, so freelance artists who have more experience or unique skills can earn higher rates.

SAG short term agreement rates also ensure that freelance artists who work on STA projects are entitled to certain working conditions, such as meal breaks, rest periods, and safe working environments. This means that freelance artists can work on these projects with the peace of mind that they are protected and entitled to fair wages and working conditions.

In conclusion, understanding SAG short term agreement rates is important for freelance artists because it can impact their earning potential and career growth. By understanding the basics of SAG STA rates, freelance artists can negotiate for fair wages and working conditions and work on these projects with the peace of mind that they are protected.