HOW TO BECOME A SAG SIGNATORY - PART I

The process of becoming a SAG-AFTRA signatory is document and information intensive and very time consuming, so it is important that producers fully understand the process before beginning so as to avoid any avoidable delays or disruptions to the production.

First, producers need to submit a signatory application. This is done online and should be done at least 4-6 weeks before the first date of principal photography, travel, or rehearsal.

However, there is a lot that must be done before submitting the application. Producers will need to have a completed budget as the budget determines which SAG-AFTRA contract applies.

A completed script is also necessary as SAG needs to know how many speaking parts are in the project and the script will be submitted as a part of the initial signatory application.

If the production will be under one of the low budget agreements, producers must be aware that the entire production must shoot in the United States or its territories which include Guam, Puerto Rico, and the US Virgin Islands.

The application itself requires extensive information including:

1. the name of the project and the type of agreement – short, student, new media, podcast, television or ultra-low, moderate low, low budget, or theatrical regular agreement.
2. The project type – live action, animation, or documentary
3. The anticipated running time and all languages spoken in the project.
4. A synopsis and the genre of the project will be required.
5. The names of the lead performers, and hosts, if known, and director or writer.
6. All other unions involved, if any, must be identified (WGA, DGA, IATSE, etc.).
7. The earliest travel and rehearsal dates must be provided as well as the projected dates of principal photography and wrap.
8. SAG will also ask if principal photography and voiceover work will be in person or remote.
9. The name of the producer is also required, and the production attorney is requested but not required.

After submitting the signatory application, SAG will email a packet of information and documents that need to be completed.