The short version
- Many states require an entertainment work permit before a child can work.
- California and New York require a portion of a child performer’s earnings to go into a trust account.
- Productions often must limit hours and provide schooling time for minors.
- A parent or guardian should always be with a minor on set and at auditions.
If your child wants to act or model, the most important thing you can do is understand the rules that protect them. Laws vary a lot from state to state, and they change over time, so treat this as a starting map and always confirm details with your state’s labor department before your child works.
Work permits
Many states require minors to have a permit before they can work in entertainment. For example, California generally requires an Entertainment Work Permit from the California Labor Commissioner for minors working in the industry, including babies. New York requires a child performer permit through its Department of Labor. Other states, including New Jersey, have their own child labor rules for performers. Ask the production which paperwork it needs, and apply early because permits can take time.
Trust accounts (Coogan accounts)
Some states require that part of a child’s earnings be set aside for them. California’s Coogan Law requires employers to deposit 15 percent of a minor’s gross earnings from many entertainment contracts into a blocked trust account, commonly called a Coogan account. New York has a similar requirement for child performers. Parents typically open the account and give the details to the production.
Set hours and school
States that regulate child performers often limit how many hours a child can be on set, depending on age, and require breaks and schooling time. In California, productions must often provide a studio teacher who also looks out for the child’s welfare. Union productions under SAG-AFTRA agreements add their own protections for minors.
A parent or guardian must be present
Legitimate productions expect a parent or guardian to be with a minor, and many laws require it. You should be within sight and sound of your child. If anyone suggests you wait somewhere else while your child works or auditions alone, that is a serious red flag.
Contracts and usage
- Read every contract and ask what the pay rate covers.
- Ask how and where your child’s image will be used, and for how long.
- In some states, certain minor contracts can be reviewed by a court. Ask the production or an entertainment attorney.
Money red flags
Never pay a fee for a child to be represented or guaranteed a role. Legitimate agents are paid a commission after work is booked. Read how to spot a fake casting call.
Keeping it healthy
Let your child lead. Make school the priority, keep auditions fun, and celebrate effort instead of bookings. Kids who enjoy the process tend to do their best work.
Quick answers
Do child actors need a work permit?
In many states, yes. California and New York both have permit requirements. Check your own state labor department.
What is a Coogan account?
A blocked trust account for a child performer. In California, 15 percent of a minor’s gross earnings from many entertainment contracts must be deposited into it.
Can parents stay with their child on set?
Yes, and they should. Many laws and union rules require a parent or guardian to be present.
Should I pay an agency to represent my child?
No. Legitimate agents earn a commission after your child books work.
Keep going: read the beginner’s playbook, or browse more Insights.
By the Acting Modeling Auditions team. Updated September 2026.