SAG-AFTRA sorts indie films into budget tiers, and your budget and runtime decide which agreement you can sign: Short Project, Student, Ultra Low Budget, Modified Low Budget or Low Budget, each with its own day rate, cast requirements and paperwork. Enter your budget, runtime, cast size and locations and this assistant explains the tier you fall into and what signing it obliges you to do. It is educational guidance only — confirm terms with SAG-AFTRA and a production attorney before you sign.

Important Disclaimer

This tool is NOT affiliated with, endorsed by, or connected to SAG-AFTRA or any labor union. We provide educational information only to help filmmakers understand union contracts. For official guidance, rates, and to become a signatory, you must contact SAG-AFTRA directly. Information may be outdated—always verify with official sources.

Union Contract Assistant

Educational AI guidance for understanding SAG-AFTRA and other union contracts

Chat with Contract Assistant

Hello! I'm an AI assistant here to help you understand SAG-AFTRA and other union contracts for your film or TV production. **Important:** I am NOT affiliated with SAG-AFTRA or any union. I'm an educational tool to help you learn about: • **Agreement Types** - From Student Film to full Theatrical agreements • **Current Rates** - Day rates, weekly rates, and overtime rules • **Becoming Signatory** - Step-by-step process to hire union talent • **P&H Contributions** - Pension & Health obligations • **Other Unions** - IATSE, DGA, WGA, and more For official guidance, you'll want to contact your regional SAG-AFTRA office directly. Enter your ZIP code on the right to find your local office. How can I help you get started?

Quick Topics:

Find Your SAG-AFTRA Office

Enter your ZIP code to find your regional office

Upload Production Info

Upload a PDF, TXT, or DOCX with your production details instead of filling forms

Supports: Budget summaries, production bibles, project briefs

Or Enter Details Manually

Budget

Project Type

Runtime (min)

Cast Size

Location

Distribution Plan

Official SAG-AFTRA Resources

Production Center →Contracts & Industry Resources →Become a Signatory →

Legal Notice

This AI assistant provides general educational information about union contracts. It is not affiliated with SAG-AFTRA, IATSE, DGA, WGA, or any labor organization.

This is not legal advice. For binding information about rates, agreements, and signatory requirements, contact SAG-AFTRA directly or consult an entertainment attorney.

Rates and requirements change periodically. Always verify current information at sagaftra.org