Empower Yourself: Filing a Claim Inquiry

If you are working on a television, theatrical or new media project and suspect that the SAG-AFTRA signatory has violated the collective bargaining agreement in any way, it is important to know how to proceed.

Please complete a claim form in as much detail as possible, including the dates that you worked, and email it to your local staff at atlanta@sagaftra.org at your earliest convenience. Include any supporting documentation such as contracts and pay stubs with your form that will help in investigating your claim inquiry. 

Examples of the most common claim inquiries: 

• Non-payment(s) of initial compensation.  
• Late payment(s).  
• Cancellation(s).  
• Rest period violation(s).  
• Meal penalties.  
• Fitting/wardrobe payment(s). 
• Consecutive employment.  
• Per diem(s).  
• COVID-19 test payment(s). 

Claims should only be filed by the performer or the performer's agent. 

A claims representative will follow up with you regarding your claim if there are any updates. As the claims process often takes many months, there is no reason to reach out to the claims representative for an update. If they receive an update, they will reach out to you. If you receive a payment related to your claim and have not heard from the representative, please make sure to scan and send it to the union as soon as possible.  

Keep in mind that there are time limitations for the filing of claims. Most claims for principal performers must be filed with the union within six months of the potential violation of the contract. The status of your claim, if any, can be viewed by logging into the membership portal via sagaftra.org.  

Quick Tips 

• Keep good records of dates/times worked. 
• Keep dates of any COVID-19 tests that occur on a non-work day(s). 
• Take photos of Exhibit Gs (sign in and out form) and performer contracts.  
• Save payroll check stubs.  
• Send a separate claim form for each production.  

If you're questioning if you should file a claim, please contact local staff at atlanta@sagaftra.org and we can discuss the specific details of your claim.

This item was originally featured in the Winter 2021 Atlanta Local Newsletter.