Acting Day Rate Calculator
Calculate SAG-AFTRA and non-union day rates with overtime and penalties
Current SAG-AFTRA Rates (2024)
SAG-AFTRA Daily Rates
- Theatrical/TV: $1,056/day
- Commercial: $679/day
- Background: $216/day
- Overtime: Time and a half after 8 hours
Regional Adjustments
- Los Angeles: Standard rates
- New York: 10% premium
- Chicago: 10% discount
- Atlanta: 15% discount
- Other Markets: 20% discount
Professional Payment Tips
- Know Your Worth: Always research current rates before accepting a job
- Track Your Time: Keep detailed records of your hours on set
- Overtime Rules: Anything over 8 hours should be paid at time and a half
- Meal Penalties: You may be owed additional pay for missed or late meals
- Travel Pay: Long commutes may qualify for additional compensation
- Union Benefits: SAG-AFTRA members get health insurance and pension contributions
- Invoice Promptly: Submit your paperwork immediately after wrap
- Keep Records: Save all contracts, call sheets, and payment records
About This Tool
Understanding your worth as an actor is essential for career success. This comprehensive day rate calculator helps actors calculate fair compensation for SAG-AFTRA and non-union projects.
What makes this tool unique: Most comprehensive actor pay calculator with current union rates
User benefit: Know your worth and ensure proper payment on every job
How to Use This Tool
Select your union status (SAG-AFTRA or non-union), choose your role category (Principal, Background, etc.), and enter your expected hours per day. The calculator will show your base rate, overtime calculations, and any applicable penalties. You can adjust for regional markets and add additional fees like wardrobe or travel allowances.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
- Fill in the required information in the form above
- Double-check your inputs for accuracy
- Click the calculate button to get your results
- Review the detailed breakdown provided
- Use the insights to make informed career decisions
Key Benefits
Professional Benefits:
- Know your exact pay before accepting any job
- Calculate overtime and penalty rates automatically
- Stay updated with current SAG-AFTRA scale rates
- Factor in regional market adjustments
- Negotiate confidently with accurate rate knowledge
- Track income potential for budget planning
- Avoid underpayment with precise calculations
Career Impact:
- Make data-driven career decisions
- Understand industry standards
- Track your progress over time
- Optimize your investments
- Stay competitive in the market
When to Use This Tool
Essential when negotiating rates with independent producers who may not know current union scales. Critical for background actors tracking overtime and meal penalty calculations. Useful for agents calculating client earnings across multiple markets. Valuable for actors comparing union vs. non-union job offers. Perfect for tax preparation and income tracking throughout the year.
Professional Tips
Always clarify whether quoted rates include or exclude agent commissions before negotiations. Factor in travel time and costs when evaluating distant location shoots. Keep detailed records of your actual vs. calculated rates for tax purposes. Understand that overtime calculations can significantly impact total earnings. Always confirm meal penalty policies before accepting background work to avoid surprises.
Frequently Asked Questions
How often are SAG-AFTRA rates updated?
We update rates immediately when new SAG-AFTRA contracts are ratified, typically every 3 years with annual cost-of-living adjustments.
Does this include agent commissions?
No, the calculator shows gross rates before agent/manager commissions. You'll need to subtract 10-20% depending on your representation agreements.
What about non-union rate guidance?
Non-union rates vary widely by market and project. We provide baseline estimates, but always negotiate based on your experience and the project budget.
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About CuteAct Career Tools
CuteAct provides professional-grade acting career tools designed specifically for actors, performers, and entertainment industry professionals. Our tools are used by thousands of actors worldwide to make informed career decisions, track their progress, and optimize their professional investments.
All our calculators use current industry data and are regularly updated to reflect market changes. Whether you're just starting your acting career or you're a seasoned professional, our tools provide the insights you need to succeed.
Why Actors Trust CuteAct:
- Industry-standard calculations
- Regular data updates
- Professional-grade accuracy
- Free to use, no registration
- Mobile-friendly design
Our Mission:
We believe every actor deserves access to professional tools that help them make smart career decisions. Our mission is to democratize access to industry insights and help actors at every level achieve their goals.