SAG AFTRA Micro Budget Agreement: What You Need to Know

If you`re a filmmaker or producer working on a micro budget project, you may have heard of the SAG-AFTRA Micro-Budget Agreement. But what exactly is it, and how can it benefit your project? In this article, we’ll dive into everything you need to know about the SAG-AFTRA Micro-Budget Agreement and how it can help your project.

What is the SAG-AFTRA Micro-Budget Agreement?

The SAG-AFTRA Micro-Budget Agreement is a contract that allows filmmakers to hire SAG-AFTRA actors for projects with budgets under $50,000. The agreement was created in response to the growing number of low-budget independent films being produced and aims to make it easier for producers to work with professional actors while keeping costs low.

Why is the SAG-AFTRA Micro-Budget Agreement important?

The agreement is essential for independent filmmakers who want to hire professional actors but don`t have the resources to pay standard SAG-AFTRA rates. By providing a framework for low-budget productions, the agreement makes it easier for filmmakers to hire actors and comply with union rules and regulations.

What are the benefits of the SAG-AFTRA Micro-Budget Agreement?

The SAG-AFTRA Micro-Budget Agreement offers several benefits for filmmakers, including:

1. Access to professional actors: The agreement allows filmmakers to hire SAG-AFTRA actors for their projects, giving them access to professional talent who are trained and experienced in their craft.

2. Lower costs: By providing a set of rules and regulations, the agreement helps filmmakers keep costs low while still working with professional actors.

3. Compliance with union rules: The agreement ensures that filmmakers comply with union rules and regulations, avoiding any potential legal issues down the line.

What are the eligibility criteria for the SAG-AFTRA Micro-Budget Agreement?

To be eligible for the SAG-AFTRA Micro-Budget Agreement, the project must meet the following criteria:

1. The project must have a budget of $50,000 or less.

2. The project must be non-commercial.

3. The project must be produced within a specific time frame.

4. The project must be distributed in specific ways, such as through film festivals, online streaming platforms, or DVDs.

How do I apply for the SAG-AFTRA Micro-Budget Agreement?

To apply for the SAG-AFTRA Micro-Budget Agreement, you will need to contact SAG-AFTRA and provide the necessary paperwork, including a script, budget breakdown, and shooting schedule. You will also need to pay an application fee and a security deposit. Once your application is approved, you will be able to hire SAG-AFTRA actors for your project.

In conclusion, the SAG-AFTRA Micro-Budget Agreement is an essential tool for independent filmmakers who want to work with professional actors while keeping costs low. By allowing producers to hire SAG-AFTRA actors for projects with budgets under $50,000, the agreement provides a framework for low-budget productions and ensures compliance with union rules and regulations. If you`re working on a micro budget project, the SAG-AFTRA Micro-Budget Agreement is definitely worth considering.