Buy outs and run schedules

John M. Thomas · Posted: Sun Feb 11, 2007, 14:51 (GMT) Post subject: Buy outs and run schedules

Interested in knowing if there is a general rule of thumb concerning buyouts and run schedules for broadcast spots. I have done a couple of spots like that and was not sure what to charge for the buyout portion or for the length of the run. Obviously, the primary concern is "market size". I have been on the Aftra rate site and it seems somewhat confusing.

Victor Harris · Posted: Sun Feb 11, 2007, 15:04 (GMT) Post subject:

All depends if you are union or not. I belong to AFTRA, so on all union gigs we operate on 13 week cycles. As non-union or financial-core, you can roll anyway you can negotiate. In the past I have done 4 week cycles or 6 weeks or obviously, total buyouts, which is almost everything on this website. For more info go to the AFTRA homepage. Even if you are not a member, you can still use it for reference. Membership fees are pretty hefty and unless you are doing alot of union stuff, I would say its not worth joining. Wink

Colin Campbell · Posted: Sun Feb 11, 2007, 15:39 (GMT) Post subject:

I've always wondered, what is "financial core?"

Victor Harris · Posted: Sun Feb 11, 2007, 16:19 (GMT) Post subject:

Colin, Without getting into alot of detail...Financial Core (fi-core) is a right granted by the Supreme Court and the National Labor Relations Board (NLRB) rulings that allow workers (not just actors) to NOT join the union, and still work union jobs. Basically, you become a “dues paying non-member” in the eyes of your union and you are allowed to work both union and non-union jobs. You cannot be forced to join a union, but you must pay your fair share.

In other words, when you work a union gig or for a union signator, you must pay union dues as long as you are working that gig. As soon as you stop working that gig, you stop paying dues. Also, during your entire time of paying those dues, you do not rate any of the other medical or retirement benifets because you are not really a card carrying member.

Its kind of a hot topic with some people, especially in Hollywood.
Wink