How to Get SAG Background Vouchers FAST

[@Ryan152103]

Took me 6 months to get them. I kept asking if any were available after wrap till I finally got 3.

[@MartinBentsen]

Nice, congrats!! For many actors, it can take 3-6 YEARS if they're not adamant about it!

[@1131982vincent]

I live in new york city and I am with central casting for 3 years what I need to do next???

[@TheBri1222]

Who should I ask on set for a voucher?

[@MartinBentsen]

Typically, you should ask the background actor coordinator, who is often your main point of contact on set. This is the person who gives you directions, paperwork, and handles payroll forms. You can also ask a production assistant who might be able to direct you to the right person.

[@TheBri1222]

@@MartinBentsen thank you!

[@dariameyer5708]

super dupper helpful, thanks, man

[@MartinBentsen]

Glad you enjoyed!!

[@supamariosoniku]

What if you’re a filmmaker, but do background work, but want to make non union/independent films?

[@MartinBentsen]

Yes, as a filmmaker you are able to make non-union films even if you are a registered member of the Screen Actors Guild (SAG). SAG-AFTRA, the union that represents actors, does not have any rules that prohibit its members from making non-union films as filmmakers.

[@WhispersRoCloset]

Thank you I’ve been looking for this

[@MartinBentsen]

Happy to help!

[@WhispersRoCloset]

Thank you

[@luisvelez8096]

Thank you. Great tips.

[@MartinBentsen]

Glad you enjoyed!

[@VKG-ot1tx]

Do you know if it’s easier for kids to get a sag card?

[@MartinBentsen]

It is a bit easier!

[@jenniferadkins8807]

When is the best time to ask for the voucher? Beginning, End of first day of shooting on set or after you are done filming?

[@MartinBentsen]

Generally waiting until the end of the first day is the best option, unless you already know the AD or PM on set and ask them at the beginning of the first day

[@jenniferadkins8807]

Thank you

[@markcunningham2862]

I was lucky to get a BG job last year that was giving out waivers. It was just for one day of work - so I have one waiver. A SAG friend told me that being a union member was a great way to be unemployed at a higher pay rate. Is becoming "SAG eligible" and maintaining that status indefinitely possible? In other words, can I wait to join SAG until it seems like it might pay off?

[@kolby_jack_cheese8053]

Yes, and a lot of people do this. It’s the sweet spot you want to stay in, so if a Union opportunity comes along you can pay the 3k fee and join.

[@RustyMeyers-q2r]

Join when you start booking principal work on union projects. Consider joining Financial Core, especially if you live in a right-to-work state. Ask your acting coach, if you don't have one get a legit one that works in the industry for a living not as a hobby. If all you want to do is b/g work then don't join.