The short version
- SAG-AFTRA is the main US union for film, TV, commercial, voice, and new media performers.
- You typically become eligible by working a principal role on a union production, earning three days of union background work, or belonging to an affiliated performers union.
- Joining requires paying a one time initiation fee plus yearly dues, which vary by location. Check the official SAG-AFTRA website for current amounts.
- Once you join, you generally cannot accept non union acting work, so many actors wait until they are booking regularly.
- There is no rush. Many working actors build experience on non union projects first.
SAG-AFTRA (the Screen Actors Guild and American Federation of Television and Radio Artists) represents actors, background performers, voice actors, broadcasters, and other media professionals in the United States. Union membership brings negotiated pay rates, health and pension plan eligibility, and workplace protections. It also comes with rules and costs. Here is what new actors should know.
What the Union Does for Performers
- Minimum pay rates set by union contracts for film, television, commercials, and other work
- Residuals on many types of work when it is rebroadcast or streamed
- Health and pension plan eligibility for members who meet earnings requirements
- Safety and working condition standards, including rules for overtime, meal breaks, and set safety
- Protections for minors working on union productions
How to Become Eligible
SAG-AFTRA lists a few main routes to eligibility. The most common are:
1. Work as a principal performer on a union project
If you are hired for a principal or speaking role on a production covered by a SAG-AFTRA contract, you can become eligible. Nonmembers are often hired under a provision commonly called Taft-Hartley, which allows a producer to hire a nonunion performer for a union job.
2. Earn union background vouchers
Background actors can become eligible by working a set number of days as a union covered background performer, commonly three days. These opportunities are competitive, but background work is a realistic starting point. Learn more in our guide on how to become a background actor.
3. Join through an affiliated union
Members of certain affiliated performer unions, such as Actors’ Equity, may become eligible after meeting membership time and work requirements.
Rules can change, so always confirm current requirements on the official SAG-AFTRA website.
What It Costs
New members pay a one time initiation fee plus annual base dues and work dues tied to earnings. The amounts vary by location and are updated periodically. Budget for this before accepting a union job, since eligibility often leads directly to the invitation to join.
What “SAG Eligible” Means
Once you qualify, you are considered “SAG eligible.” In general, you can work one more union job within a set window before you must join to keep working on union projects. Confirm the current rules with the union, because the timing matters.
Should You Join Right Away?
Not necessarily. After joining, members generally agree to work only on union covered projects. That can limit your opportunities if you are still building your resume in a smaller market where most projects are non union. Consider joining when:
- You are regularly booking or being called in for union work
- Your agent recommends it
- You live in or near a major production market
- You can afford the initiation fee
Many actors build experience with student films, local commercials, and non union projects first. See our guide on booking your first TV commercial for an easy starting point.
Union Work and Agents
Most union film, TV, and national commercial roles are cast through agents. If you are aiming for union work, an agent can be a big help. Read our guide on how to get an acting agent.
Beware of Union Shortcuts
No legitimate company can sell you a union card. Programs that promise SAG-AFTRA membership in exchange for a fee are a red flag. Review our tips on how to spot a fake casting call.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I get a SAG card without an agent?
Yes. Some actors become eligible through background work or by booking a union role directly through a casting call.
Do kids need to join SAG-AFTRA?
The same eligibility rules generally apply to minors. Parents should weigh the costs and the limits on non union work. Our parents guide to child acting rules covers work permits and safety.
Is SAG-AFTRA worth it for voice actors?
It can be, especially for animation, commercials, and video games produced under union contracts. Many voice actors also work non union while building their careers.