Non-Union Actor Pay: What You Should Actually Make
If you're a non-union actor wondering whether your pay is fair, you're not alone. Without SAG-AFTRA minimums, rates vary wildly — and productions know most actors don't have benchmarks to push back with.
Typical Daily Rates (2024-2025)
Extra / Background$100 — $200/day
Day Player$200 — $500/day
Supporting (Non-Union)$300 — $800/day
Lead (Non-Union)$500 — $1,500/day
Micro Drama Lead$600 — $1,200/day
Why Rates Are So Inconsistent
Non-union work has no standard minimums. Your rate depends on the production budget, your experience, the platform, and — honestly — how well you negotiate. Micro drama platforms like ReelShort or DramaBox may pay differently than indie films or non-union commercials.
How to Know If Your Rate Is Fair
- Check what others report for similar roles on StageBlind
- Factor in hours: $800/day for 16 hours is $50/hour; $500/day for 8 hours is $62.50/hour
- Ask about meal breaks, overtime, and travel compensation
- Never pay to audition — that's a scam