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Your Guide to How Much Do Extras Get Paid On Tv Shows
How much do extras get paid on TV shows? The pay for background actors on TV shows varies greatly. It often ranges from around minimum wage per hour up to about $200 or more for a standard filming day rate background actor. What you make depends mostly on one big thing: are you working on a union show or a non-union show? SAG-AFTRA extra rates are set by a union contract. This means union extras get a guaranteed daily rate. They also get set rules for overtime pay extra work and other extra payments. Non-union background actor pay is not set by a union. Pay rates can differ a lot from one show to the next. Some shows might pay close to union rates. Others might pay minimum wage for a long day. This guide will walk you through how pay works for extras on television.
Grasping the Basics of Background Acting Pay
Getting paid as a background actor, also called an extra, involves more than just a simple hourly wage. Your pay comes as a daily rate TV extra. This rate covers a certain number of hours. Often, it’s an 8-hour day. If filming goes longer than that, you earn more. This is called overtime pay extra work.
The main difference in how much you get paid comes down to whether the production has an agreement with the Screen Actors Guild‐American Federation of Television and Radio Artists (SAG-AFTRA). This is the main union for actors in the United States.
Deciphering SAG-AFTRA Extra Rates
Working on a union TV show usually means higher pay. SAG-AFTRA has rules for how much background actors must be paid. These rules are in their collective bargaining agreements.
Union Daily Rate
The basic SAG-AFTRA extra rates are a set amount for a standard workday. As of recent agreements, the standard daily rate for general background actors is often around $186 per day. This covers the first 8 hours of work. This is your filming day rate background actor if you are in the union.
Some background actors might get a higher rate. This happens if they do something special.
* Standing in for a main actor (stand-in).
* Playing a role that requires a specific skill (like playing a doctor, needing a specific prop, or wearing special clothes).
* Working in wet conditions or smoke.
These extra payments are called “bumps.” They add to your daily rate.
Union Overtime Pay Extra Work
If the filming day goes longer than 8 hours, union background actors earn overtime.
* Hours 9 and 10 are paid at time-and-a-half. This means 1.5 times your normal hourly rate.
* Hours 11 and 12 are paid at double time. This is 2 times your normal hourly rate.
* Hours after 12 are usually paid at even higher rates, sometimes called triple time.
Overtime rules are strict for union jobs. This helps protect actors from working too long without fair pay.
Other Union Payments
SAG-AFTRA rules cover more than just the base pay and overtime.
* Wardrobe Fittings: If you have to go for a costume fitting before your work day, you get paid for this time.
* Mileage: If you have to travel a certain distance to the set, you might get paid for your travel.
* Meal Penalties: If the production doesn’t give you meals on time (within certain hours of starting work or the last meal), they have to pay you a penalty. This adds money to your voucher.
* Cancellations: If a job is canceled without enough notice (usually 12 hours), you might get paid a cancellation fee.
Union background actors also earn contributions towards their health plan and pension plan. This is a big benefit of union work.
Interpreting Non-Union Background Actor Pay
Non-union TV shows do not have to follow SAG-AFTRA rules. This means non-union background actor pay can vary a lot. There is no set daily rate TV extra that applies everywhere.
Non-Union Daily Rates
Non-union pay is usually lower than union pay. The filming day rate background actor for non-union work might be anywhere from state minimum wage per hour up to around $150 per day. Sometimes it’s slightly more in expensive cities, but it’s rarely as high or as consistent as the union rate.
The pay rate is agreed upon when you are booked for the job. It’s important to ask or check the casting notice for the specific rate before you accept the work.
Non-union jobs might still offer extra payments for specific things. But these are not guaranteed by a contract. They are up to the production. You might get a small bump for:
* Bringing specific wardrobe items.
* Working with your vehicle.
* Using special props.
These bumps are often smaller than union bumps.
Non-Union Overtime Pay Extra Work
Overtime on non-union sets is usually based on the labor laws of the state where filming takes place. This means overtime might kick in after 8 hours, 10 hours, or even 12 hours, depending on the state. The rate is usually time-and-a-half of your agreed-upon hourly rate (which is your daily rate divided by the standard hours, often 8 or 10).
Non-union productions are less likely to have structured meal penalties or cancellation fees like union shows do.
Specific Pay Rates for Different Roles
Not all background roles pay the same, even within the same union or non-union system.
Stand-In Pay Rate
A stand-in takes the place of a main actor during rehearsals and lighting setups. They need to be about the same height, build, and skin tone as the actor. This job is more involved than just being background. Because of this, the stand-in pay rate is higher than the general background rate.
- SAG-AFTRA Stand-Ins: They get the basic background rate plus a set bump on top of that. This rate is also covered by the union contract. It’s often around $200-$220+ per day, but check current union rates.
- Non-Union Stand-Ins: They also usually get a higher rate than general non-union background. However, the amount varies. It will be agreed upon when they are hired.
Doubles
Photo doubles or body doubles stand in for main actors for specific shots, like hands, feet, or the back of their head. They need to look very much like the actor for that specific body part. This work is often paid at a higher rate than a stand-in or general background. This is because it’s more specialized. The pay for doubles can be significantly higher, especially for union jobs or specific matching needs.
Fathoming How You Get Paid On Set
The process of getting paid for background work is different from a regular job. You don’t usually get paid cash at the end of the day.
The Background Actor Voucher
The key document for payment is the background actor voucher. This is a form that tracks your work day.
* It records your name and contact info.
* It notes if you are union or non-union.
* It lists your call time (when you must arrive).
* It records your wrap time (when you finish for the day).
* It lists any special payments you should get (like wardrobe bump, prop use, stand-in work, meal penalties).
* It has spaces for signatures from you and a production representative (often an Assistant Director).
You fill out your parts of the voucher. At the end of the day, a production member fills out the work times and any extras. You must check this carefully before you sign it. Make sure the hours are right and any bumps you were promised are listed.
Processing Your Pay
Once you sign the background actor voucher, the production team sends it to a payroll company. This company handles paying all the cast and crew. They use the information on the voucher to figure out how much you are owed, including any overtime.
Getting paid takes time. It’s not like a regular job with a weekly paycheck. It can take anywhere from one to three weeks, or sometimes even longer, to receive your check. Union jobs usually have stricter rules about payment timing than non-union jobs.
- How extras get paid on set really means how your work is recorded on set (using the voucher). The actual payment happens later through payroll.
Union vs Non-Union Extra Pay: A Comparison
Let’s look side-by-side at the differences in union vs non-union extra pay.
| Feature | SAG-AFTRA (Union) Background Actor | Non-Union Background Actor |
|---|---|---|
| Daily Rate | Set rate by contract (e.g., ~$186/8 hours) | Varies greatly (e.g., minimum wage/hr to ~$150/day) |
| Overtime | Strict rules (1.5x, 2x, etc. after 8 hours) | Based on state labor law, varies by production |
| Extra Payments | Set bumps for specific actions (wardrobe, props, etc.) | Up to production, less common, amounts vary |
| Meal Penalties | Guaranteed if meals are late | Rare or not guaranteed |
| Cancellations | Paid fee if job canceled without enough notice | Usually not paid |
| Benefits | Contributions to health & pension plans | No benefits provided |
| Job Access | Priority for union shows, requires joining the union | Can work on any non-union show, more available initially |
| Pay Consistency | More consistent rates and rules | Less consistent, varies job to job |
This table highlights why many background actors aim to join the union. The pay and benefits are much better and more reliable. However, union jobs are not always easy to get, and joining the union has its own steps and costs.
Average Pay for TV Extras: What to Expect
What is the average pay for TV extras? As we’ve seen, there isn’t really one single average. The pay range is wide.
- A non-union extra working a standard 8-hour day might make $75 to $150 before taxes.
- A union extra working a standard 8-hour day will make the set
SAG-AFTRA extra rates, currently around $186 before taxes.
Now, add in overtime or special payments:
* A non-union extra who works 12 hours might make slightly more due to overtime after 8 or 10 hours, depending on the state minimum wage and the base rate.
* A union extra who works 12 hours on a $186 day will earn a lot more due to guaranteed time-and-a-half and double time. Their pay for that day could easily be over $300.
* A union stand-in working a long day with overtime will earn even more, potentially $400-$500+ for a very long day.
So, when people talk about the average pay for TV extras, it’s best to think in ranges:
* Entry-level / Non-Union: $75 – $150 per day is common, but can be lower or slightly higher.
* Union (SAG-AFTRA): $186 per day base, easily increasing with overtime and bumps. A typical long day with some overtime is often $250 – $350+.
Remember, taxes are taken out of this pay. Also, you only get paid when you are actually booked and working. There might be many days or weeks between jobs.
Other Factors That Affect Pay
Several other things can change how much you get paid on a TV show.
Wardrobe and Props
Sometimes, you are asked to bring specific clothes or props from home.
* On union sets, bringing specific, approved wardrobe pieces often gives you a small “wardrobe bump” ($18.50 as of recent rates). Using your personal props might also give a bump ($12 as of recent rates).
* On non-union sets, this is less common to be paid extra for, but some productions might offer a small added amount.
If you have to attend a separate wardrobe fitting before your work day, this is paid time, especially for union jobs.
Travel
If the set is far away, productions sometimes offer travel pay.
* Union contracts have rules about mileage or travel time pay if filming is outside a certain zone (e.g., 30 miles from a studio or city center).
* Non-union productions might offer gas money or a flat travel fee, but it’s not standard and varies by production.
Meal Periods
SAG-AFTRA has strict rules about providing meals. They must give you a meal break within 6 hours of your start time (or the end of your last meal). If they miss this window, they owe you a meal penalty payment for every half-hour they are late. These penalties add up. Non-union sets must follow state labor laws for breaks, which might be less strict than union rules, and they usually don’t pay meal penalties like union shows.
Holiday Pay
Working on a recognized holiday usually means higher pay, especially for union background actors. Union rates for holidays can be double or triple the normal rate.
Becoming a Background Actor
How do you start getting these jobs?
* Agencies: Many background actors get work through casting agencies that specialize in extras. These agencies get casting calls from TV shows and submit people who fit the look needed. Agencies might take a percentage of your pay (often 10-20%).
* Casting Calls: You can also find casting calls posted online or through social media groups.
* SAG-AFTRA: To work union jobs, you must become a member of SAG-AFTRA. This usually requires getting a certain number of union vouchers or getting hired for a union job that qualifies you for membership. There are initiation fees and yearly dues.
Starting non-union is easier and more common. It allows you to get experience on sets. If you want to work union jobs, non-union work can sometimes be a path to becoming eligible for the union.
Summarizing the Pay Landscape
The average pay for TV extras is heavily skewed by whether the job is union or non-union.
* Non-union pay is lower, less regulated, and inconsistent, often falling into a lower daily range.
* Union pay is higher, set by a strong contract, includes benefits and guaranteed overtime/penalties, leading to a much higher daily rate potential, especially on longer workdays.
While the base daily rate TV extra for union work is fixed, the final pay for any extra on any given day depends on:
1. Union vs. Non-union status.
2. The specific rate agreed upon (for non-union).
3. How many hours were worked (overtime).
4. If any special tasks or conditions applied (bumps).
5. If any penalties were triggered (like late meals).
So, while the basic filming day rate background actor provides a starting point, the final amount on your background actor voucher can be quite different.
Key Takeaways on Extra Pay
- Union pay (SAG-AFTRA extra rates) is significantly higher and more stable than
non-union background actor pay. - The base rate is just one part;
overtime pay extra workand bumps for special tasks add a lot to the final pay. Stand-in pay rateis higher than general background pay.How extras get paid on setinvolves signing abackground actor voucher, but the actual payment comes later through payroll.- There is no single
average pay for TV extras. It is a wide range from maybe $10 an hour minimum wage up to $300+ for a busy union day.
Frequently Asked Questions About Extra Pay
How long does it take to get paid after working as an extra?
Payment usually takes 1 to 3 weeks after you work. It goes through a payroll company after your voucher is processed. Union jobs might have quicker payment rules than non-union jobs.
Do I need an agent to work as an extra?
No, you do not need an agent to find extra work. Many extras find jobs through casting websites, social media, or by signing up directly with casting companies that specialize in background. An agent can help find work, but they are not required, especially for non-union jobs.
Do extras get fed on set?
Yes, productions are generally required to provide meals for cast and crew, including background actors, especially if the workday is long. Union rules specify meal times and provide penalties if meals are late. Non-union sets also usually provide food, but the rules might be less strict. “Walking” lunch (where you get paid through lunch and eat quickly on your own) is also common, especially on shorter days.
Can working as an extra lead to speaking roles?
It is very rare for background work to directly lead to speaking roles on the same production. Background actors are there to fill space and not be noticed as individuals. If you want speaking roles, you need to train as an actor and audition for those parts specifically. Background work is a separate job category.
Are taxes taken out of extra pay?
Yes, background actors are typically treated as employees for tax purposes. Income taxes, Social Security, and Medicare will be taken out of your paychecks just like a regular job.
Is there a different pay rate for movies versus TV shows?
The pay rates for background actors are usually set by the same union contracts (SAG-AFTRA) or non-union standards, regardless of whether it’s a movie or a TV show. However, large feature films might sometimes have bigger budgets or more opportunities for overtime than some TV shows. The rate per day or hour is often similar within the same union/non-union category.
Working as a background actor can be an interesting way to see how TV shows are made and earn some money. Knowing the difference between union and non-union pay is key to understanding what you can expect to make.