#48: How Do I Join AEA?

Wednesday 9/4/24

DEAR JULIE: I think I’m ready to join AEA. How do I do that?

In 2024, joining Actors’ Equity Association (AEA) - the labor union for actors and stage managers - is extremely accessible. You can join via many routes. This post will not be about whether or not YOU should join AEA, this question was about the actual steps you need to take to join. It is a HUGE moment and should be handled with thought, care, and excitement. YES, IT’S A BIG DEAL! Joining AEA gives you better pay and contract terms, protections, and health & pension! Health insurance is a whole OTHER beast, but you can accrue weeks and use them based on certain criteria. You also get access to equity auditions and even access to legal counsel. 

There are a few ways to join AEA:

• Open Access:

• What it is: The Open Access program is the newest way to join Equity, allowing actors who have worked professionally in theater to apply for membership without having to accumulate points or wait for a specific contract offer.

• How it works: If you have worked as an actor or stage manager in a professional theater production, you may be eligible to join through Open Access. This includes non-Equity productions and work at theaters not under Equity contracts.

• Cost: You will need to pay the initiation fee and the first installment of dues upon acceptance. You have limited time to pay the remaining fee. 

• Contract Employment:

• What it is: Actors who are offered an Equity contract for a job can join Equity immediately.

• How it works: Once you receive a job offer under an Equity contract, you are eligible to join the union. This is often the fastest way to become a member.

• Cost: You will need to pay the initiation fee and the first installment of dues to join.

• Membership by Affiliation:

• What it is: If you are already a member of a sister union (e.g., SAG-AFTRA, AGMA, or AGVA), you may be eligible to join Equity.

• How it works: You will need to provide proof of your current membership in the sister union and meet any additional requirements set by Equity.

• Cost: The initiation fee may be reduced or waived depending on the reciprocal agreements between the unions.

HOW TO APPLY FOR AEA MEMBERSHIP:

• 1) Gather Required Documentation:

• Proof of your eligibility (professional theater work, contract, or sister union membership).

• Identification documents.

• Any other relevant paperwork

• 2) Complete the Application Form:

• The application form is available on the Equity website.

• Fill in all required details accurately and attach the necessary documentation.

• 3) Pay the Fees:

• Initiation Fee: As of 2024, the initiation fee is $1,800, payable in installments.

• Dues: Annual dues are $176 paid over 2 payments, with an additional 2.5% of gross earnings under Equity contracts.

• Payment plans are available for those who need them.

• 4) Submit the Application

• 5) Await Confirmation:

• Once your application is reviewed and approved, you will receive confirmation of your membership. You can also access your “card” both digitally AND physically. Nothing like getting that physical card in the mail :)