Digital Visual
Includes: Digital Visual Commercials (Paid and Unpaid Social, Online Pre-Roll, OTT/CTV), Non-Paid Web Videos, and Industrial Usage.
Examples: Digital Ads for Social Media and Streaming services, Product/Explainer Videos, eLearning Content, Internal Videos, etc.
Rates are one spot only: The rate is negotiable for multiple spots. Renewal option is existing rate PLUS 10%-20% of original rate.
“Lifts/edits/versions”: Unlimited L/E/V is a common ask now, however this is not recommended as this does not deliver compensation for the value provided to the client. Options to combat:
Limit the number of lifts granted at the agreed upon rate
Limit the intended usage length
Negotiate discount on lift’s usage -> 25%-50% per spot discount
NON-PAID WEB (OWNED SOCIAL OR CLIENT SITE)
Product & Promotional Videos or any form of non-broadcast video that is publicly placed on client website or social channels. Can also include Internal Videos that are then placed publicly. 1-5 minute video length. Allows client to post/promote the video as many times as needed through the usage period via client owned social or website/email.
Rates are per video
A discounted rate can also be offered for bulk work (multiple spots, at least 5+, up to the talent).
Paid Commercial usage is not covered and must be licensed separately (see below).
Archival use after the usage period is permitted.
Perpetual license in certain situations can be acceptable eg: client owned YouTube content, Ecommerce product videos (Amazon, Target, etc), and others at talent’s discretion. If so, it’s suggested to use the 5 year rate to ensure maximum value.
Term
Rate Range
Notes
1 Year
$500 – $700
3 Years
$900 – $1,100
5 Years
$1,300 – $1,500
Session Fee
Session Fee Included
PAID SOCIAL
Paid Social Media campaigns only: Paid ads/boosted posts
Does not include usage for Pre-Roll or OTT/CTV
Term
Rate Range
Notes
1 Month
$300 – $450
3 Months
$400 -$750
1 Year
$1,000 – $1,500
Session Fee
1Hr Session Included
$250 per additional session hour
ONLINE PRE-ROLL / OLV (INCLUDES PAID SOCIAL)
Most common example is YouTube ads, but other digital uses for pre-roll are used.
Subtract 10% – 15% if no Paid Social is needed
Term
Rate Range
Notes
1 Month
$650 – $800
3 Months
$750 – $1,100
1 Year
$2,250 – $3,000
Session Fee
$500 for 2 Hour Session
$250 per additional session hour
Radio
Session Fees: Session fees are included in usage rates. However, a session fee should always be determined, despite it being included in the overall usage rate. This fee is to compensate for talent’s time and expertise, and talent must still receive a base session fee for the record session, if the usage is canceled or audio is not used for the final.
To determine a 6 month rate: talent can double the 3 month rate, or simply encourage clients towards the 1 year rate, which gives more value for longer usage
All rates are for one spot only. Rate is negotiable for multiple spots. A discounted rate can also be offered for multiple spots, at least 5+, at talent’s discretion.
1-2 spots is typical. Multiple spots might need a per spot discount.
Longer usage terms are more financially advantageous.
Digital and Terrestrial can be bundled. See Value Menu section.
“Lifts/edits/versions”: Unlimited L/E/V is a common ask now, however this is not recommended as this does not deliver compensation for the value provided to the client. Options to combat:
Limit the number of lifts granted at the agreed upon rate
Limit the intended usage length
Negotiate discount on lift’s usage -> 25%-50% per spot discount
Radio Rates adjusted to be more in line with current SAG-AFTRA Audio Commercials Contract rates which you can find on the VORG here
LOCAL – REGIONAL (DIGITAL OR TERRESTRIAL)
Rates are for Digital OR Terrestrial usage only, NOT BOTH
If you are looking for combined usage, please see the “Value Menu” below (combines both digital and terrestrial usage for a discounted rate)
Local-Regional Usage
Low-end rates are for local usage and adhere to one city only
High-end rates are for regional usage (up to 4 states) or a single (only ONE) large market. Examples: NYC, LA, Chicago, Atlanta, or Philadelphia
Ranges also represent rates for different product types and brands. Major brands or product categories should be priced higher (examples: Target, Best Buy, Automotive, Insurance, Fast Food, Banking, etc.). Less used product types or smaller brands will be lower
Digital Usage
Includes: Streaming radio paid ads in any internet delivery method via app, browser, in-car, or dedicated radio receiver
Examples: Sirius XM, Pandora, Spotify, iHeart Radio, and Podcast Ads
Term
Rate Range
Notes
1 Month
$275 – $400
3 Months
$350 – $600
1 Year
$900 – $1,500
Tags
$125 – $175/ea
Session Fee
Rate includes $250-$350 session fee for 60-90 mins
NATIONAL (DIGITAL OR TERRESTRIAL)
Rates are for Digital OR Terrestrial usage only, NOT BOTH
If you are looking for combined usage, please see the “Value Menu” below (combines both digital and terrestrial usage for a discounted rate)
National Usage
This range is solely for Nationwide usage and follows normal low-high rate ranges
Ranges also represent rates for different product types and brands. Major brands or product categories should be priced higher (examples: Target, Best Buy, Automotive, Insurance, Fast Food, Banking, etc.). Less used product types or smaller brands will be lower
Digital Usage
Includes: Streaming radio paid ads in any internet delivery method via app, browser, in-car, or dedicated radio receiver
Examples: Sirius XM, Pandora, Spotify, iHeart Radio, and Podcast Ads
Term
Rate Range
Notes
1 Month
$550 – $700
3 Months
$750 – $1,000
1 Year
$1,500 – $2,500
Tags
$150 – $200/ea
Session Fee
Rate includes $250-$350 session fee for 60-90 mins
VALUE MENU
Value Menu Options – Combo Package Discount for Clients:
When clients want usage across multiple channels, offering combo packages that reflect real-world media behavior, you can offer a bundle discount of typically 15–25% off combined individual rates.
These bundles save the client money while respecting the value and licensing required for each channel.
Usage durations are mirrored across channels: 1 month, 3 months, 1 year – so everything is easy to track and renew. This provides a clear, scalable pricing model that works for any campaign!
Terrestrial Radio + Digital Radio – Local/Regional
Term
Rate Range
Notes
1 Month
$400 – $600
3 Month
$500 – $900
1 Year
$1,250 – $2,250
Tags
$125 – $175/ea
Session Fee
Rate includes $250-$350 session fee for 60-90 mins
Terrestrial Radio + Digital Radio – National
Term
Rate Range
Notes
1 Month
$800 – $1,000
3 Months
$1,250 – $1,500
1 Year
$2,500 – $3,250
Tags
$200 – $225/ea
Session Fee
Rate includes $250-$350 session fee for 60-90 mins
AUTOMOTIVE
Term
Rate Range
Notes
Tier 1 – National Brand Spots
Union Rate
Tier 1 automotive spots are major brand spots. Always will be Union and will be received via Agent or Management.
Tier 2 – Regional Tags
$75 – $200 per spot
Non-Union: Tier 2 automotive spots are regional tags placed at the end of existing national spots. Rate depends on agency and size. Rates are same for TV, Radio, or Digital Broadcast. Usage run directly correlates with ad sale for dealership. Usage length does not factor into rates.
Tier 3 – Local Dealer Spots :30 & :60
$150 – $200 per spot
Tier 3 – Local Dealer Spots :15, :10, :16
$75 – $100 per spot
Non-Union: Tier 3 automotive spots are single owner/dealer spots via ad agency or direct on-site. These are always local market only. Rates are the same for TV, Radio, or Digital Broadcast. Usage run directly correlates with ad sale for dealership. Usage length does not factor into rates.
RADIO/PODCAST DRAMAS
Term
Rate Range
Notes
Non-Principal Actors
$400-$500 – Up to 4hrs
Principal Actors
$800-$1,000 – Up to 4hrs
PSA (PUBLIC SERVICE ANNOUNCEMENT)
Term
Rate Range
Notes
:60 or less
$500-$600+
EXCLUSIVITY
IMPORTANT: None of the rate ranges specified on this rate guide should include any exclusivity.
Exclusivity grants a conflict, but conflicts do not grant exclusivity – A conflict can exist, even when exclusivity doesn’t.
If the buyer would like to hold exclusivity, they need to add a multiplier to the base rate to compensate talent. See tiers below. This is a partial list, you can make your own decision based on the brand/client:
Note – Exclusivity for Radio is not held in the Union and is rare in Non-Union, but is starting to be requested by clients
Tier
Rate Range
Notes
Tier 1
3-5x Base Rate
Automotive, wireless/cable/telecommunications, insurance, retail, banking/credit cards, pharmaceutical, tech computers/software, telecommunications
Tier 2
2-3x Base Rate
Fast Food, sit down, soft drinks and energy drinks, snacks, cereal/breakfast foods, beauty, household cleaning products, bath tissue, spirits/wine/beer, athletic apparel, airlines, hotel/travel
Tier 3
1-2x Base Rate
Sports/exercise equipment, school/office supplies, toys, pet products (treats, food), cutlery, batteries, spices, paint
RENEWALS
The overall renewal is paid on top of the session and usage fee from previous negotiation. Session fee, plus usage + additional bump per year. (10-15% per year for regional brands/local advertisements, and 40-50% for larger brands and national usage)
Scope of work: put in writing that any client renewal requires prior notice to the talent of at least 30 days, so the talent knows to invoice.
Term
Rate Range
Notes
Local/Regional/Small Brands – Additional 1 Year
Session fee, Usage, +10-15% bump
National Usage/Large Brands – Additional 1 Year
Session fee, Usage, +40-50% bump
OTT/CTV (INCLUDES SOCIAL & PRE-ROLL)
Includes: OTT/CTV or any other Digital Streaming TV
Subtract 20% – 25% if no Social and Pre-Roll are needed
Term
Rate Range
Notes
1 Month
$1,250 – $1,750
3 Months
$1,500 – $2,250
1 Year
$4,000 – $6,000
Session Fee
$500 for 2 Hrs
$250 per additional session hour
VALUE MENU
Value Menu Options – Combo Package Discount for Clients
When clients want usage across multiple channels, offering combo packages that reflect real-world media behavior, you can offer a bundle discount of typically 15–25% off combined individual rates
These bundles save the client money while respecting the value and licensing required for each channel
Usage durations are mirrored across channels: 1 month, 3 months, 1 year – so everything is easy to track and renew. This provides a clear, scalable pricing model that works for any campaign
The 2 rate ranges in the Value Menu represent Local-Regional Usage / National usage & applies to all term lengths
Digital Visual + TV – Paid Social
Term
Rate Range
Notes
1 Month
$525 – $850 / $975 – $1,465
3 Months
$780 – $1,300 / $1,610 – $2,440
The 2 rate ranges represent Local-Regional Usage / National Usage & applies to all term lengths
1 Year
$1,680 – $2,800 / $3,750 – $7,125
Session Fee
$500 For A 2 Hour Session / $250 Per Additional Hour
Digital Visual + TV – Online Pre-Roll (Includes Paid Social)
Term
Rate Range
Notes
1 Month
$790 – $1,170 / $1,240 – $1,725
3 Months
$1,050 – $1,575 / $1,875 – $2,700
The 2 rate ranges represent Local-Regional Usage / National Usage & applies to all term lengths
1 Year
$2,625 – $3,940 / $4,700 – $8,250
Session Fee
$500 For A 2 Hour Session / $250 Per Additional Hour
Digital Visual + TV – OTT/CTV (Includes Pre-Roll & Paid Social)
Term
Rate Range
Notes
1 Month
$1,240 – $1,875 / $1,690 – $2,440
3 Months
$1,615 – $2,440 / $2,440 – $3,565
The 2 rate ranges represent Local-Regional Usage / National Usage & applies to all term lengths
1 Year
$3,940 – $6,190 / $6,000 – $10,500
Tags
Remain the same as standard TV
Session Fee
Remain the same as standard TV
DIGITAL TAGS
Tags are normally recorded in the same session as full spots, only 1 session fee for both applies
Only charge new session fee on Individual Tag sessions
Term
Rate Range
Notes
All Usage
$175 – $225
Session Fee
$500 For 2 Hour Session
$250 per additional session hour
INDUSTRIAL ADD-ON
Use this when adding internal/industrial usage to a paid ad buy
This is non-broadcast usage and content isn’t to be used for any paid ads or paid placements
Term
Rate Range
Notes
1 Month
$250 – $300
3 Months
$450 – $600
1 Year
$500 – $1,000
E-Learning
Determine your own personal session minimum when recording. This would accommodate for session set up, script and performance preparation, file export, and clean up and delivery (which is the same regardless of session length).
File Splits – Charge $1/split regardless of quote type (pfw, pfm, pfh)
Usage only covers use for internal eLearning. When e-learning work is done for a company that sells these projects for profit, as opposed to internal training usage, negotiate a 1 year continuous sales usage contract.
Type
Rate Range
Notes
Per Word
$.20-$.35/wrd
Includes editing. $.25 per word is an average rate. $.35+ per word may be quoted for complicated or technical language. $.15 per word is acceptable if project is over 5 hours of material (over 50k words). 1 hr of work equates to 10k words.
Per Finished Min
$30-$55 pfm
Includes editing. $35 per finished minute is an average rate. Adjust as needed depending on quantity and complex/technical language.
Per Raw Hr
$600-$2,400
RAW recording only. DOES NOT include any editing.
Per Finished Hr
$1,500-$3,300
Includes editing. For smaller projects taking an hour or less to complete – $800 per 15 mins of finished audio is an average rate.
Directed Sessions
$.10-$.30/word + $150-$300/hr Session Fee for any session that exceeds 60 mins.
1st 60 mins of directed session is included at no charge. Session Fee + per word rate for anything after 60 mins.
Animation / Dubbing
Animation rates are for one season. For series leads, each additional season should be an increase of 10%-20% of the original session rate. For other minor characters, additional season rate bumps are not common, but negotiation is possible. If negotiating on your own, no agency fee is added.
NON-UNION ORIGINAL ANIMATION – 22 MINUTE EPISODE
TV and web use including broadcast, cable, streaming, OTT/CTV, YouTube, Vimeo, etc.
Type
Rate Range
Notes
Dialogue
$1,100-$1,200 per episode +10%-20% agency fee. Covers up to a 4 hour session. Audio for additional episodes recorded during the same session are subject to the same rate per. Alternate Rate: $450-$600/hour with a 2 hr minimum, 1 episode, and 2 characters max.
Each episode fee includes 2 voices per episode, and charge an additional 10% for a 3rd voice. If recording 4-5 voices, add an additional episodic fee. Add an additional 10% for a 6th voice. Repeat as needed. Hourly Rates: an hourly rate is not recommended, as a talent may end up recording for dozens of separate episodes within one session, for no additional fee. Talent must set a maximum episode and character limit if recording for an hourly rate. Full usage buyout is most common. Add NAVA AI Rider to contracts for AI protection.
Dialogue Pickups – Add On
$0
Pickups are included at no additional fee if they are added on to an original record session for new dialogue.
Dialogue Pickups – Stand Alone Session
$500-$1,200 + 10%-20% agency fee
If pick ups require a stand alone session, they should ideally be recorded at the full, original session rate (either the “per episode” rate, or the hourly 2 hour minimum rate), but never for less than half of the session rate ($450-600).
Music Add-On to Dialogue Session (Song :30 or less)
$0
No additional charge as long as it can be covered in the dialogue session.
Music Add-On to Dialogue Session (Song :30+ and can be recorded in session)
10%-20% of original session fee
If the song is over 30 seconds, and can be recorded as part of dialogue session, the talent should receive a 10%-20% bump.
Music/Singing Stand Alone Session (1 Song) Solo/Duo
$700-$1,300 +10%-20% agency fee
Music/Singing Stand Alone Session (1 Song) Group: 3-8
$400-$900 +10%-20% agency fee
Music/Singing Stand Alone Session (1 Song) Group: 9+
$300-$800 +10%-20% agency fee
Main Title/Signature Song
Stand Alone Song rate + additional 25%-35% usage fee PER EPISODE it will be used for.
Example 1: Song rate is $700: add $210 (30% of song rate) per episode it will air on = $2,520 buyout for 12 episodes. Example 2: Song rate is $1,000: add $250 (25% of song rate) per episode it will air on = $3,000 buyout for 12 episodes. If additional episodes or seasons are added beyond original scope, talent must be compensated for each episode/season.
Multi-track Sessions & Sweetening
Base rate should increase for multi-track sessions and the addition of sweetening (adding harmonies/back up vocals) to the main vocal track. This applies for all music/signing types and varies based on additional work requested
NON-UNION ORIGINAL ANIMATION – 11 MINUTE EPISODE OR LESS
Type
Rate Range
Notes
Dialogue
$400-$700 +10%-20% agency fee per episode/music/video (2 hour session max). Alternate Rate: $250-$350/hour with 2 hour minimum + 10-20% agency fee, up to 2 episodes, and 2 characters max.
Each episode fee includes 2 voices per episode, and charge an additional 10% for a 3rd voice. If recording 4-5 voices, add an additional episodic fee. Add an additional 10% for a 6th voice. Repeat as needed. Hourly Rates: an hourly rate is not recommended, as a talent may end up recording for dozens of separate episodes within one session, for no additional fee. Talent must set a maximum episode and character limit if recording for an hourly rate. Recommended usage buyout for up to 5 years maximum. Additional usage beyond 5 years should be negotiated at an additional percentage of original session fee. Add NAVA AI Rider to contracts for AI protection.
Dialogue Pickups – Add On
$0
Pickups are included at no additional fee if they are added on to an original record session for new dialogue.
Dialogue Pickups – Stand Alone Session
$200-$500 for all pickups (1hr max)
Music Add-On to Dialogue Session (Song :30 or less)
$0
Music Add-On to Dialogue Session (Song :30+ and can be recorded in session)
10%-20% of original session fee
If the song is over 30 seconds, and can be recorded as part of dialogue session, the talent should receive a 10%-20% bump.
Music/Singing Stand Alone Session (1 Song) Solo/Duo
$400-$1,300 +10%-20% agency fee
Music/Singing Stand Alone Session (1 Song) Group: 3-8
$300-$900 +10%-20% agency fee
Music/Singing Stand Alone Session (1 Song) Group: 9+
$200-$800 +10%-20% agency fee
Main Title/Signature Song
Stand Alone Song rate + additional 25%-35% usage fee PER EPISODE it will be used for.
Example 1: Song rate is $700: add $210 (30% of song rate) per episode it will air on = $2,520 buyout for 12 episodes. Example 2: Song rate is $1,000: add $250 (25% of song rate) per episode it will air on = $3,000 buyout for 12 episodes. If additional episodes or seasons are added beyond original scope, talent must be compensated for each episode/season.
Multi-track Sessions & Sweetening
Base rate should increase for multi-track sessions and the addition of sweetening (adding harmonies/back up vocals) to the main vocal track. This applies for all music/signing types and varies based on additional work requested
DUBBING
Type
Rate Range
Notes
Film/TV/Animation
$75-$181.50/hr
Union Rate is $103/hr + 50% initial rate for film/tv distribution (Cat 1) = $181.50/hr (2hr min). Cat 2 does not include 50% distribution fee. Netflix agreement is Union rate + 50% distribution. Non-Union rates from CODA = $125/hr (2hr min). Low end of dubbing rate range includes lower rates you can expect to come across from dugging different dubbing studios. CODA rate is the preferred Non-Union Rate
Fees / Pick-Ups / Editing
STUDIO FEES & EDITING
Type
Rate Range
Notes
ISDN/Source Connect
$25-$100/hr
Phone Patch
$10-$25/connection
Editing – Breaths/Mouth Clicks/Sequencing
$25-$50/hr
Do not bill these separately –> Include in rates
PICKUPS
Type
Rate Range
Notes
Picks Ups needed Due to Voice Talent Error
Files should be re-recorded and sent to client free of charge
Minor Pick Ups – Under 15 mins
$150 minimum or 50% of original rate.
Major Pick Ups – Re-writes & Large Re-Records
$260/30 minutes in session
New session fee needed. Rate should be the same or similar to original hourly or flat rate. Talent may consider charging 50% of the original rate or 50% of original hourly rate. For commercial copy that has already aired, charge a full session fee for pick ups. $150 minimum.
GVAA RATE GUIDE
TV
Low-end vs. high-end ranges: low-end rates are for local usage, and high-end rates are for regional usage or large local markets
Local rates are for one city only: no large markets like NYC, LA, Chicago, etc.
High-end rates are for regional usage (up to 4 states) or a single (only ONE) large market. Examples: NYC, LA, Chicago, Atlanta, or Philadelphia
Ranges also represent rates for different product types and brands. Major brands or product categories should be priced higher (examples: Target, Best Buy, Nintendo, Automotive, Insurance, Fast Food, Banking, etc.). Less used product types or smaller brands will be lower
To determine a 6-month rate: talent can double the 3-month rate, or simply encourage clients towards the 1-year rate, which gives more value for longer usage. A discounted rate can also be offered for bulk work (multiple spots, at least 5+, up to the talent).
Session Fee: session fee rate should always be determined (despite being included in the overall usage rate) as talent must still receive a base session fee for the record session, even if the audio is not used as final
”Lifts/Edits/Versions”: Unlimited L/E/V is a common ask now, however this is not recommended as this does not deliver compensation for the value provided to the client. Options to combat:
Limit the number of lifts granted at the agreed upon rate
Limit the intended usage length
Negotiate discount on lift’s usage -> 25%-50% per spot discount
TV Rates adjusted to be more in line with current SAG-AFTRA Commercials Contract rates which you can find on the VORG here
LOCAL / REGIONAL
For guidance on appropriate rate estimation based on market size, product type, and size of brand: see overall TV section notes
For base session fee payout should the audio not be used as final: see overall TV section notes
Term
Rate Range
Notes
1 Month
$400 – $750
3 Months
$650 – $1,000
1 Year
$1,250 – $2,250
Tags
$200 – $225/EA
Session Fee
$500 For A 2 Hour Session / $250 Per Additional Hour
NATIONAL
For guidance on appropriate rate estimation based on market size, product type, and size of brand: see overall TV section notes
For base session fee payout should the audio not be used as final: see overall TV section notes
Term
Rate Range
Notes
1 Month
$1,000 – $1,500
3 Months
$1,750 – $2,500
1 Year
$4,000 – $8,000
Tags
$225 – $300/EA
Session Fee
$500 For A 2 Hour Session / $250 Per Additional Hour
VALUE MENU
Value Menu Options – Combo Package Discount for Clients:
When clients want usage across multiple channels, offering combo packages that reflect real-world media behavior, you can offer a bundle discount of typically 15–25% off combined individual rates.
These bundles save the client money while respecting the value and licensing required for each channel.
Usage durations are mirrored across channels: 1 month, 3 months, 1 year – so everything is easy to track and renew. This provides a clear, scalable pricing model that works for any campaign.
The 2 rate ranges in the Value Menu represent Local-Regional Usage / National Usage & applies to all term lengths
TV + Digital Visual – Paid Social
Term
Rate Range
Notes
1 Month
$525 – $850 / $975 – $1,465
3 Months
$780 – $1,300 / $1,610 – $2,440
The 2 rate ranges represent Local-Regional Usage / National Usage & applies to all term lengths
1 Year
$1,680 – $2,800 / $3,750 – $7,125
Session Fee
$500 For A 2 Hour Session / $250 Per Additional Hour
TV + Digital Visual – Online Pre-Roll (Includes Paid Social)
Term
Rate Range
Notes
1 Month
$790 – $1,170 / $1,240 – $1,725
3 Months
$1,050 – $1,575 / $1,875 – $2,700
The 2 rate ranges represent Local-Regional Usage / National Usage & applies to all term lengths
1 Year
$2,625 – $3,940 / $4,700 – $8,250
Session Fee
$500 For A 2 Hour Session / $250 Per Additional Hour
TV + Digital Visual – OTT/CTV (Includes Pre-Roll & Paid Social)
Term
Rate Range
Notes
1 Month
$1,240 – $1,875 / $1,690 – $2,440
3 Months
$1,615 – $2,440 / $2,440 – $3,565
The 2 rate ranges represent Local-Regional Usage / National Usage & applies to all term lengths
1 Year
$3,940 – $6,190 / $6,000 – $10,500
Tags
Remain the same as standard TV
Session Fee
Remain the same as standard TV
AUTOMOTIVE
Tier
Rate Range
Notes
Tier 1 – National Brand Spots
Union Rate
Tier 1 automotive spots are major brand spots. Always will be Union and will be received via Agent or Management.
Tier 2 – Regional Tags
$75 – $200 per spot
Non-Union: Tier 2 automotive spots are regional tags placed at the end of existing national spots. Rate depends on agency and size. Rates are same for TV, Radio, or Digital Broadcast. Usage run directly correlates with ad sale for dealership. Usage length does not factor into rates.
Tier 3 – Local Dealer :30 & :60
$150 – $200 per spot
Non-Union: Tier 3 automotive spots are single owner/dealer spots via ad agency or direct on-site. These are always local market only. Rates are the same for TV, Radio, or Digital Broadcast. Usage run directly correlates with ad sale for dealership. Usage length does not factor into rates.
Tier 3 – Local Dealer :15, :10, :16
$75 – $100 per spot
Non-Union: Tier 3 automotive spots are single owner/dealer spots via ad agency or direct on-site. These are always local market only. Rates are the same for TV, Radio, or Digital Broadcast. Usage run directly correlates with ad sale for dealership. Usage length does not factor into rates.
IN-SHOW / DOCUMENTARY NARRATION
In-Show & Documentary Narration consists of Non-Dramatic Reality Based TV programming including Docu-Series
Quote lower range for less dense shows, and upper range for more dense narration
If narrator voices 4-5 minutes, that is considered less dense
Documentaries tend to be denser reads. A good example of this is when a narrator is interspersed with experts talking on camera, re-creations of crime scenes, etc – the fewer people on camera means more narration will be needed. Examples include Oxygen, Smithsonian, National Geographic
History and Weather channel tend to run the same programs longer (possibly many, many years), so take that into consideration when quoting
Add $250 to your quote if recording at home, labeling, organizing and sending files. No add on for Source Connect or outside studio sessions.
Add additional 20-25% bump for each additional usage source, such as streaming usage, or if it will be played in another International market
Program Length
Rate Range
Notes
24 Minutes
$1,000 – $1,500
Program length excludes commercials. Cable has 6 mins of commercials for a 30 minute program. Non-cable productions such as Netflix, Apple TV+, etc won’t follow this rule but rates still remain the same. If longer than 30 minutes, increase rate accordingly at talent’s discretion.
48 Minutes
$2,000 – $3,000
Program length excludes commercials. Cable has 12 minutes of commercials for a 1 hour program. Non-cable productions such as Netflix, Apple TV+, etc won’t follow this rule but rates still remain the same. If longer than 1hr, increase rate accordingly at talent’s discretion.
INFOMERCIAL / DIRECT RESPONSE TV (DRTV)
Infomercials & DRTV are programs that direct you to call or visit a website to purchase
Informercials are generally 30-min programs
DRTV is shorter commercial advertisements
Term
Rate Range
Notes
National – 1 Year
$1750 – up to 2 hour session
North America (US & Canada) – 1 Year
$2500 – up to 2 hour session
Rates are per script. Includes cuts/versions and up to 10 phone numbers. Additional phone numbers are $42 per. Pickups: $500 – up to 2 hour session
MNEMONICS
Term
Rate Range
Notes
Average Rate
$1,000 – $50,000
Examples: Got Milk? Yahoo!!! Mnemonic rates vary widely depending on brand and usage. Please seek help from a talent agent, union representative, or rate expert when negotiating.
POINT OF SALE (POS)
Term
Rate Range
Notes
Usage is based on TV Broadcast
Use standard TV – see above
Grocery stores, gas stations, and retail stores where a video promoting a specific product is being shown. Does not refer to voice over for automated check outs. Use same market size assessment to quote.
EXCLUSIVITY
IMPORTANT: None of the rate ranges specified on this rate guide should include any exclusivity
Exclusivity grants a conflict, but conflicts do not grant exclusivity – A conflict can exist, even when exclusivity doesn’t
If the buyer would like to hold exclusivity, they need to add a multiplier to the base rate to compensate talent. See tiers below. This is a partial list, you can make your own decision based on the brand/client
Note – Exclusivity is automatically granted for Union projects. For Non-Union, additional compensation is required
Tier
Rate Range
Notes
Tier 1
3-5x Base Rate
Automotive, wireless/cable/telecommunications, insurance, retail, banking/credit cards, pharmaceutical, tech computers/software, telecommunications
Tier 2
2-3x Base Rate
Fast Food, sit down, soft drinks and energy drinks, snacks, cereal/breakfast foods, beauty, household cleaning products, bath tissue, spirits/wine/beer, athletic apparel, airlines, hotel/travel
Tier 3
1-2x Base Rate
Sports/exercise equipment, school/office supplies, toys, pet products (treats, food), cutlery, batteries, spices, paint
RENEWALS
The overall renewal is paid on top of the session and usage fee from previous negotiation. Session fee, plus usage + additional bump per year. (10-15% per year for regional brands/local advertisements, and 40-50% for larger brands and national usage)
Scope of work: put in writing that any client renewal requires prior notice to the talent of at least 30 days, so the talent knows to invoice.
Term
Rate Range
Notes
Local/Regional/Small Brands – Additional 1 Year
Session fee, Usage, +10-15% bump
National Usage/Large Brands – Additional 1 Year
Session fee, Usage, +40-50% bump
AUTOMOTIVE
Term
Rate Range
Notes
Tier 1 – National Brand Spots
Union Rate
Tier 1 automotive spots are major brand spots. Always will be Union and will be received via Agent or Management.
Tier 2 – Regional Tags
$75 – $200 per spot
Non-Union: Tier 2 automotive spots are regional tags placed at the end of existing national spots. Rate depends on agency and size. Rates are same for TV, Radio, or Digital Broadcast. Usage run directly correlates with ad sale for dealership. Usage length does not factor into rates.
Tier 3 – Local Dealer Spots :30 & :60
$150 – $200 per spot
Tier 3 – Local Dealer Spots :15, :10, :16
$75 – $100 per spot
Non-Union: Tier 3 automotive spots are single owner/dealer spots via ad agency or direct on-site. These are always local market only. Rates are the same for TV, Radio, or Digital Broadcast. Usage run directly correlates with ad sale for dealership. Usage length does not factor into rates.
EXCLUSIVITY
IMPORTANT: None of the rate ranges specified on this rate guide should include any exclusivity.
Exclusivity grants a conflict, but conflicts do not grant exclusivity – A conflict can exist, even when exclusivity doesn’t.
If the buyer would like to hold exclusivity, they need to add a multiplier to the base rate to compensate talent. See tiers below. This is a partial list – you can make your own decision based on the brand/client:
Tier
Rate Range
Notes
Tier 1
3-5x Base Rate
Automotive, wireless/cable/telecommunications, insurance, retail, banking/credit cards, pharmaceutical, tech computers/software, telecommunications
Tier 2
2-3x Base Rate
Fast Food, sit down, soft drinks and energy drinks, snacks, cereal/breakfast foods, beauty, household cleaning products, bath tissue, spirits/wine/beer, athletic apparel, airlines, hotel/travel
Tier 3
1-2x Base Rate
Sports/exercise equipment, school/office supplies, toys, pet products (treats, food), cutlery, batteries, spices, paint
RENEWALS
The renewal is paid on top of the session and usage fee from the previous negotiation: Session fee, plus usage + additional bump per year. (10-15% per year for regional brands/local advertisements, and 40-50% for larger brands and national usage)
Scope of work: put in writing that any client renewal requires prior notice to the talent of at least 30 days, so the talent knows to invoice.
Term
Rate Range
Notes
Local/Regional/Small Brands – Additional 1 Year
Session fee, Usage, +10-15% bump
National Usage/Large Brands – Additional 1 Year
Session fee, Usage, +40-50% bump
Non-Broadcast
CORPORATE & INDUSTRIAL NARRATION
Finished Minute Scale
Rate Range
Notes
1-2 min
$350-$450
3-5 min
$450-$550
5-10 min
$600-$700
10-15 min
$700-$800
15-20 min
$800-$950
20-30 min
$950-$1,250
30-40 min
$1,250-$1,750
40-60 min
$1,750-$2,350
Single video usage only. Includes editing and file naming/splits. DOES NOT include TV, broadcast, or any additional internet/web advertisement usage. Industrial can command higher rates based on complexity of industry or subject matter.
Recording Time Scale
Rate Range
Notes
Internal (Corporate/Industrial)
$525/1st hr, $262/hr after
Full Buyout Rate. Does not include editing or file naming/splits. Delivery of RAW audio only.
Pick Ups (per 30mins in session)
$260
Rate is PER 30mins in pickup session. Flexibility allowed for short pickups or client relationship. Does not include editing or file naming/splits. Delivery of RAW audio only.
Retake-Entire Script 1st 60 mins
$525/1st hr, $262/hr after
Full Buyout Rate. Does not include editing or file naming/splits. Delivery of RAW audio only.
Retake-Entire Script Each Additional 30 mins
$260
Full Buyout Rate. Does not include editing or file naming/splits. Delivery of RAW audio only.
EXPLAINER VIDEOS
Type
Rate Range
Notes
Single Video – Up to 90 seconds
$350-$525
Bulk Per Video Rate
$250 per video with up to 175 words. Additional $50 for each 100 words thereafter.
Explainer videos are no more than 90 seconds long, are public facing, educate consumers, and focus on explaining a business idea or service. The content may be an explanation of what a specific product is or a how a service works. Rate listed is per video and includes usage on: company-owned website, YouTube channel, and social media platforms. Does NOT include Paid Placement for commercial broadcast and/or web usage including but not limited to: boosted posts, sponsored ads, pre-roll, mid-roll, or other web ads. After 90 seconds quote based on General Narration rates, Lobby Viewing Explainers (non-broadcast section) or Non-Commercial Web Videos (web usage section). 2-5 year usage is recommended. Does not include editing.
MUSEUM TOURS – EDUCATIONAL
Type
Rate Range
Notes
Principle Voice, Audio Tour (Industrial – CAT 1)
$505 1st hr / $148 each additional 30 mins.
Union rate scale. Educational and training programs, public relations and promotional programs. Examples: Museums, libraries, classrooms – designed to train and educated. May include exhibitions. Usage in perpetuity.
Talking Statues, Exhibition Voices (Industrial CAT 2)
$563 1st hr / $148 each additional 30 mins.
Union rate scale. Intended for the unrestricted exhibition to the public. Usage of 3 years. (Public locations)
PODCASTS
Term
Rate Range
Notes
Audio Drama – Non-Principal Actors
$400-$500 – up to 4hr session
Audio Drama – Principle Actors
$800-$1,000 – up to 4hr session
Intro/Outro
$300-$400
MEDICAL / TECHNICAL NARRATION
Term
Rate Range
Notes
1-2 min
$400-$500
3-5 min
$600-$700
5-10 min
$700-$800
10-15 min
$800-$900
15-20 min
$900-$1,000
20-30 min
$1,000-$1,400
30-40 min
$1,400-$1,900
40-60 min
$1,900-$2,400
Per Word Rates
$.25-$.50/wrd
Rates are a guideline, rates should be adjustable within clients budget. Includes editing, file splits, naming, delivery, pick ups, etc. Free re-records up to 10% of total word count. Mistakes = Free. Studio & Production charges included in rates. Music, sfx, etc are extra. Determine your own personal session minimum when recording. This would accommodate for session set up, script and performance preparation, file export, and clean up and delivery (which is the same regardless of session length).
DIGITAL GREETING CARDS
Term
Rate Range
Notes
Full Buyout
$750-$1,000
YOUTUBE CONTENT
Type
Rate Range
Notes
Narration: 3-5 Min Episodes
$750-$1,000
3-5 mins is approx. 500 – 1,000 words. Average Rate applies to channels with under 500,000 avg views. High Rate applies to channels with over 500,000 avg views. Add $250 per additional 250,000 avg views.
Channel Intro/Outro
$500-$2,000
As Channel gains subscribers, make incremental increases in the rate. Set markers for how many subscribers the channel has every six months and increase rate accordingly over time. For a high volume channel with millions of subscribers, the ideal would be to build up to $1,000-$2,000. Note – YouTube vendors do not traditionally pay much, and they do not understand licensing fees or traditional rates as they currently exist in other genres of voice over. Starting with a base rate of $500 (especially for new channels) and then increasing the rate as the subscribers grow is the best approach.
KIOSK USE (NON-RETAIL)
Term
Rate Range
Notes
Full Buyout
$525/1st hr, $262/additional hr
Non-Retail references ”not selling a product” – Museums, Zoos, Educational Kiosks, etc.
LOBBY VIEWING
Type
Rate Range
Notes
Explainer
$525/1st hour, $262/hr additional
Video explainer about the service provider. Not selling a specific product.
Retail
Refer to TV broadcast rates
Selling a specific product or service. Rates should mirror TV broadcast rate range and usage terms.
AIRPORT ANNOUCEMENTS
Type
Rate Range
Notes
Public Facing Announcements
$1,500 – $2,000
If narrating for multiple airports, the first airport is at the stated rate. Each additional airport is $1,000-$1,500. Rates should be charged per year per airport. No in perpetuity usage. Rate covers up to 2hrs of raw recording time. Add $500/additional raw hour of recording. $250/half-hour for pick-up session(s)
Video Games / Toys & Games
VIDEO GAMES
Under the 2017 SAG-AFTRA Video Game contract, every video game is required to pay actors a bonus for each session worked. Don’t forget to keep track of these bonuses and to be sure that your employers pay them to you on or before the release date of the game. Over-scale payments are credited against your bonus unless your representative negotiates for them, so ask for them at the time of booking. IF YOU WORK YOU’RE DUE! 1 Session ($75) $75 – 2 Sessions ($125) $200 – 3 Sessions ($175) $375 – 4 Sessions ($175) $550 – 5 Sessions ($225) $775 – 6 Sessions ($225) $1000 – 7 Sessions ($275) $1275 – 8 Sessions ($275) $1550 – 9 Sessions ($275) $1825 – 10 Sessions ($275) $2100 – 11+ Sessions ($0) $2100.
Type
Rate Range
Notes
Video Games – Non-Union
$200-$350/hr (2 or 4 hour min)
Full Buyout Rate. Vocally stressful sessions should be limited to 2-hour sessions. Common per session rate you may see is $500 for 1hr max session.
Video Games – Union
$825.50/session (up to 4hr session)
Vocally stressful sessions should be limited to 2-hour sessions.
TOYS, GAMES, & MOBILE GAME APPS
Type
Rate Range
Notes
Toys & Games
$500-$750 up to 2hr Session, $200 – $250/additional hr
For Buyout add $1,000 – $3,000 per product in addition to session fee. Buyout is for toy usage only. Includes usage to show toy speaking in a commercial advertisement featuring the product.
Toys & Games (Demo/Scratch Products)
$150 – $300/hr
Demo usage only (for invention companies or internal usage). NOT for product usage.
Mobile Game Apps – Non-Union (Character)
$300-$500/game | 1hr session max or $200-$300/hr (2hr min)
Up to 3-4 voices. $75-$100 per additional voice. Full buyout rate. Session fee may be hourly if recording from a game. Multiple games being recorded in 1 session needs to be charged separately with $300-$500 per game min. Vocally stressful sessions should be limited to 2-hrs.
Mobile Game Apps – Union (Character)
$825.50/Session
Up to 4hr session up to 3 voices. Rate is per game.
Mobile Game Apps – E-Learning Educational
$350-$400 for 1-5 finished minutes | $600 up to 10 finished minutes
Up to 3 voices.
Promo & Imaging
Rates are Per Spot –> When recording multiple spots in one session, you should be paid per spot
Cable Station Promos are considered “non-union” work so there is no conflict with SAG-AFTRA, and each station has its own unique rate card. It is highly recommended that you run Promo work through a talent agency so that they can negotiate appropriately for you. It will not conflict if you are a union talent as promo is considered non-jurisdictional. Talent can be booked on guaranteed contracts with individual stations, or on a per spot basis. Contracts are usually for one year, but some are two.
TV
Type
Rate Range
Notes
Local
$150-$300
Regional
$450-$600
National
$750-$1,000
Station Voice
Custom Retainer
Utilize rates to build retainer rate
RADIO
Type
Rate Range
Notes
Local
$150-$200
Regional
$350-$500
National
$600-$850
Station Voice
Custom Retainer
TRAILERS
Type
Rate Range
Notes
Local – Small Market
$100
Regional – Medium Market
$325-$500
National – Large Market
$1,500-$2,000
Union Scale Common
Audiobooks
ACX Info – ACX has 2 agreement types royalty share and royalty + stipend (or a hybrid agreement). Rates should follow the non-union pfh or hybrid rates. For total royalty share, pfh/hybrid rates are not in play.
Type
Rate Range
Notes
Union Scale – PFH
$150-$225/hr
Rate is per finished hour (PFH). This is a general rate for union contracts. Delivery is a clean punch record from home studio, no additional editing, clean-up, processing, or mastering.
Non-Union – PFH
$200-$500/hr
Rate is per finished hour (PFH). Includes production fees for hiring a professional to edit/master/proof (production add-on approx $75-$125/hr). If converting to union, additional fees may need to be charged to cover health and pension and paymaster fees
Per RAW Hr
$225/hr
RAW Narration only – NO editing at all.
Production Add-On
$75-$125/hr
This rate should be used for independent production – editing, proofing, mastering, etc.
Hybrid Agreemnt
$100/pfh plus royalty share
IVR / Message-on-Hold
DIRECT QUOTE
Type
Rate Range
Notes
IVR
$150 suggested minimum
IVR
$150 + $1/prompt – $200 + $5/prompt
IVR
$.08 – $.25/word, $50 – $200/hr
Message-On-Hold
$200 suggested minimum
Message-On-Hold
$100/min suggested, $8 per 3-6 sentence paragraphs
RAW recording only. DOES NOT include editing. Editing should be an additional charge
ROSTER TALENT
Type
Rate Range
Notes
IVR & Message-On-Hold
Production Houses average rates $10-$20/paragraph
Others start @ $50 per half hour booth time
Cinema / Events
CINEMA USAGE
Term (1-3 States)
Rate Range
Notes
1 Month
$300
3 Months
$425 – $550
6 Months
$800 – $950
1 Year
$1,200 – $1,350
Term (4+ States)
Rate Range
Notes
1 Month
$500
3 Months
$800 – $1,050
6 Months
$1,600 – $2,000
1 Year
$2,400 – $3,000
EVENT VIDEO
Term
Rate Range
Notes
1 Year
$600-$700/1st hr, $300-$350/hr after
Non-Broadcast usage ONLY. Examples include conferences, concerts and live events. The client may use the video for up to one year and at as many conferences as they like. Usage is restricted to live events/conference use only. Does NOT include Trade Show usage or Sporting Events. See “Trade Show” rates.
Full Buyout
$2,000-$2,100/1st hr, $1,000-$1,100/hr after
Non-Broadcast usage ONLY. Examples include conferences, concerts and live events. The client may use the video indefinitely for conference or live event usage only. Does NOT include Trade Show usage or Sporting Events. See “Trade Show” rates.
TRADE SHOWS / SPORTING EVENTS
Type
Rate Range
Notes
Single Video: Trade Show or Event – 1 Year
$600-$700/1st hour, $300-350/hr. after
Non-Broadcast usage ONLY. The client may use the video for up to one year and at as many trade shows or sporting events as they like. Restricted to trade show or sporting event usage only.
Full Buyout
$2,000-$2,100/1st hour, $1,000-$1,100/hr after
Non-Broadcast usage ONLY. The client may use the video in perpetuity at as many trade shows or sporting events as they like. Restricted to trade show or sporting event usage only.
Add Trade Show/Sporting Event Use to Existing Buy
+20-30% of original session cost
Non-Broadcast usage ONLY. Add 20-30% on top of original session buy. Usage mirrors the original usage terms. So if the original buy was for 6 months, the 20-30% covers usage for usage for 6 months. If original buy was a full buyout, the 20-30% covers a full buyout.