HOW DO I GET MY SAG/AFTRA CARD?

Here are four ways to attain entrée into SAG/AFTRA:

1.  Get hired as a principal performer or have a speaking role on a SAG/AFTRA signatory film, TV, video or commercial project (short films excluded), you may join SAG/AFTRA.  You must have a way to prove employment via an original pay stub or signed contract, and the production or casting director must complete a *Taft-Hartely Report, a form necessary to become SAG/AFTRA eligible.

2.  Join through a sister union.  Have you been a member of an affiliated union for a year i.e. AEA, AGVA, AGMA, or ACTRA and worked under an affiliated contract at least once?  Then, you can join SAG/AFTRA (and vice versa if you would like to join one of these other unions).

3.  Work as an extra on a SAG/AFTRA signatory project three times, receive SAG/AFTRA extra/background pay ($162 a day in 2016-2017) and a voucher. SAG/AFTRA vouchers are often limited and will go to SAG/AFTRA members first, but don't be afraid to ask/tell one of the assistant directors (usually the 2nd AD) that you would like a SAG/AFTRA voucher - if there are some not being used by union members.  If you know someone in a signator production, they could probably help pull some strings to make sure you receive one.

4.  Develop your own or audition for a new media project.  With the advent of new media/the internet, another way to attain your SAG/AFTRA card is through the SAG/AFTRA New Media Agreement .  The New Media Agreement is for internet projects only  - content NOT intended for television, cable, or theatrical release i.e. web series/internet only video.  In order to apply for a New Media Agreement, you must have at least one or more SAG/AFTRA members acting in your project.  If a New Media Agreement is granted,  all  principal performers and the first 10 extras (union & non-union) must be covered under this SAG/AFTRA contract.  Consequently if you are non-union, this agreement should enable you to become eligible for membership a.k.a. "Taft Hartleyed."  

*If Taft-Hartleyed, please follow up with the union to ensure your paperwork is being processed.