How to Join the Screen Actors Guild

The Screen Actors Guild (SAG) represents working actors. This AFL-CIO affiliated union, based in Los Angeles, protects the rights of actors working in American films, commercials and television shows. The Guild, formed in 1933, has expanded in recent years to safeguard the rights of artists working in digital media like video games and the Internet. SAG has 20 branch offices in the United States.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

1. Perform as a principal actor for one day or more on a project that has a producer's agreement with SAG. If you've been paid at the SAG rate, you're now SAG-eligible and you can act in SAG or non-union productions for up to 15 days without joining.

2. Collect vouchers as a non-SAG extra on films and TV shows. Once you've amassed three vouchers you may join the Guild. Submit proofs of employment such as pay stubs or payroll forms. Do consider that this membership rule is in the process of being transferred to a "points" system.

3. Belong to another performers' union, such as American Federation of Television And Radio Artists (AFTRA) for at least a year. Act as a principal performer in one production for the affiliated union, and you can join Screen Actors Guild.

4. Pay an initial fee according to your location. If you work in a city other than Los Angeles, the dues may be lower.

5. Know your dues when you join. Be aware that Screen Actors Guild members pay dues on a sliding scale. The more money you make as a SAG actor, the higher your dues.

Resources

• Visit the Screen Actors Guild website.