Before diving into this post, make sure to read the original article I wrote to get caught up:
MODELING INVOICES.
Happy November! Wondering why I'm writing about a topic that's already been covered on my blog?
Well, that original post was penned back in 2008 and a lot has changed since then so I figured it couldn't hurt to add a few extra updates where they apply, especially since that particular post was mostly aimed at freelance models.
GETTING PAID AS AN AGENCY REPRESENTED MODEL
Similar to actors with representation getting paid, models with an agency behind them have the convenience of payment being taken care of by their agent. This could involve the agent billing the client directly after the work has been completed or you might be required to have a blank voucher signed by the client as proof of the work done and time put in.
Once the client has been billed, it's time to wait for the payroll process to kick in and your agent will send you your cut by check or direct deposit. When you first get brought onto roster at an agency, there will be paperwork to fill out, including for tax purposes. It is at that time that your agency receives the information necessary to get you paid, such as your mailing address and/or bank account info to deposit funds directly into.
As far as how soon you'll be paid, that varies widely. It's rare that payment is made same day -- when it does happen, it's fantastic -- but don't bet on it. At best, expect the payroll process to take anywhere from 30-90 days.
I know, that's a huge time frame. But, as I've mentioned in many previous posts, when you sign that coveted modeling agency contract, you are agreeing to a variety of terms and conditions, including that you understand and do not dispute that payments can take up to 90 days.
GETTING PAID AS A FREELANCE MODEL
It isn't uncommon for freelance models to get paid the same day as the work they've performed. With payment apps like Zelle, Venmo, Cash App, Apple Pay, etc., it's easier than ever for clients to pay models anywhere, anytime.
Another common occurrence is for clients to ask the model to invoice them before the project so they can have a check ready onsite the day they're supposed to work. Invoicing beforehand makes things easier on the client because the paperwork is already processed and they can ensure the model is paid right away.
But a majority of the time, you can expect clients to ask for an invoice after the work has been completed. Sometimes they'll send an email with the information that needs to be on the invoice in order for them to process it in a timely manner. Other times, they won't provide this info and assume you know what to do.
If you have no idea what to do and the client doesn't give you any direction on this, the good news is that creating a modeling invoice is extremely easy to do. Word has a template for invoices you can search and modify according to your needs or you can do a quick online search for templates. Make sure you search using the keyword "modeling invoice," that way the info in the templates is accurate.
The most important information that should appear include but are not limited to:
- Your Legal Name (this is important for payroll purposes. Using a stage name will delay getting paid since it won't match your legal documents and could be confusing for the payroll folks processing the invoice)
- Mailing Address
- Contact Info (email and phone)
- Date(s) Worked
- Call Time & Wrap Time
- Name of the Project/Client
- Established Rate of Pay
MODELS WITH AGENCY REPRESENTATION WHO ALSO FREELANCE
The payment methods listed above all still apply BUT the main difference is to understand what kind of working relationship you have with your agent. No two agencies operate the same way so this is something you'll have to investigate on your own to make sure you're operating accordingly.
That being said, there are some modeling agencies that are totally okay with their models submitting to and booking work on their own. BUT some require commission to be paid even if they didn't book the job for them. This is a major bummer but it does happen.
Are there models in these situations who simply don't tell their agent when they book gigs so they can keep 100% of their pay? Absolutely. Does this carry great risk? Absolutely! If you choose this route, you have to accept full responsibility for any consequences or repercussions if your agent finds out.
On the flip side, there are other agents who are also okay with their models submitting to and booking work on their own but do NOT require commission as a result. And those types of arrangements are fantastic for obvious reasons. Again, this is a conversation you should have with your agent when you first get signed to avoid any future issues.
Now, I will say that in most cases, agencies who allow freelancing without commission will tell their models to be smart about which projects they submit to. The last thing anyone wants is an accidental double submission from you and your agent applying to the same gig.
To avoid this, it's important to see if the casting you're looking at mentions an agency fee. If it does, chances are, that project has already appeared on your agent's end and they've submitted you. Not sure if your agent submitted you? Shoot them an email to double check. But don't do this with every single project or you'll quickly annoy them!
It's also important to learn and understand the basics for usage and terms so that you don't unknowingly prevent yourself from getting future work with competing companies. I'll have a post dedicated to the topics of usage and terms coming up soon, so keep checking back for that.
A COUPLE LAST MINUTE THINGS TO MENTION
Do NOT hound your agent about where your money is -- believe me, they want to get paid, too! They will follow up on your behalf if the agreed upon payment window has not been met. Freelance models will have to be diligent with keeping track of the payment windows and reaching out if payment is late.
For parents of underage/minor models, the same terms and conditions apply. The main difference is that depending on what state you live in in the US, you may be required by law to open and maintain a Coogan Account. This is a special trust account that requires clients/employers of child models/actors to set aside 15% of the gross wages and deposit into the trust account, which is managed by the child's parent or guardian.
The amount of money in the Coogan Account is not available to spend until the child turns 18. This prevents parents/guardians from misusing the funds and helps minors retain a substantial amount of their earnings. All modeling agencies that represent underage models will go over Coogan Accounts with you (if applicable) and give you the proper resources/instructions for how to set yours up.
Once you determine which arrangement you have with your agent, then you can proceed with selecting which payment method applies to which gig you're working. It's always going to change slightly from project to project so don't expect all clients to pay the same way.
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