The Screen Actors Guild‐American Federation of Television and Radio Artists (SAG-AFTRA) is a professional union that represents over 160,000 actors, broadcasters, and performers in the entertainment industry. The SAG-AFTRA Basic Agreement sets forth the terms and conditions for performers in film, television, and radio.

One of the most critical components of the SAG-AFTRA Basic Agreement is the rate structure. The rates specify how performers are compensated for their work, including their base pay, overtime, and residuals. Understanding the SAG-AFTRA rates can help performers negotiate better contracts, and it can provide producers with an understanding of the costs associated with hiring union talent.

The SAG-AFTRA Basic Agreement has different rates for different types of performers. For example, principal performers are those with speaking roles, while background performers are those without speaking roles. The agreement also includes categories for stunt performers, dancers, voice-over performers, and more.

The payment structure for SAG-AFTRA Basic Agreement rates is often based on a daily or weekly rate. For instance, a principal performer may receive a daily rate of $1,005 or a weekly rate of $3,488. Background performers may earn a daily rate of $182 or a weekly rate of $631. The rates vary depending on the type of production, location, and other factors.

SAG-AFTRA Basic Agreement rates also include overtime pay. According to the agreement, performers are eligible for overtime pay after eight hours of work on a given day. The overtime rate is calculated at 1.5 times the performer`s regular pay rate. Performers are also eligible for double pay after 12 hours of work on a given day.

Another critical component of the SAG-AFTRA Basic Agreement rates is residuals. Producers are required to pay performers residuals for the exhibition and reuse of their work. Residuals can be substantial and can continue for years after a production`s initial release.

Overall, understanding SAG-AFTRA Basic Agreement rates is essential for performers and producers alike. It can help performers negotiate fair compensation for their work and can provide producers with a better understanding of the costs associated with hiring union talent. By knowing the rates and their associated components, performers and producers can make informed decisions about their contracts and create a more equitable entertainment industry.