Why should I file a contract with the union?
A union contract is a legally binding document that protects you in the event something unexpected happens. If your client doesn’t pay you, if they cancel the gig, or if the check bounces, the union will go to bat for you – first by communicating with the client, and then by acting through available legal channels if necessary. For smaller contracts, a client may be thinking you won’t bother with the annoyance and expense of going to small claims court; for bigger contracts, a client might think you don’t have the resources to file a suit. Either way, the union is there to help, and filing a contract is the best way to ensure that you are protected.
What contract form should I file?
Use the L-2 Local Engagement Contract for gigs inside Local 33’s jurisdiction. Use the T-2 Traveling Engagement Contract for jobs outside Local 33’s jurisdiction. These are simple documents that can be easily filled out and tailored to the specific conditions of your gig.
Where can I find AFM contracts?
L-2 and T-2 Contracts may be downloaded from the Members Page at local33afm.org. Hard copies may be obtained from the Local as well.
When should I file the contract?
As soon as you and your client have signed the contract, preferably prior to the engagement. It also permissible to file the contract shortly after the gig is performed.
After I submit a contract, how are work dues collected and submitted to the Local?
Work Dues are calculated as 2% of union scale (see Local 33’s Minimum Wage Scales on the Members Page at local33afm.org) and should be withheld from the musician’s paycheck and submitted to the Local by the leader contractor, or employer. If this procedure doesn’t happen, it is your responsibility to report and pay your own personal work dues for the gig.
When should I submit work dues for a gig I play?
Work dues are due by the 15th of the month following the month in which the gig was performed.