VO-BB - 20 YEARS OLD!

Jason Huggins · Posted: Thu Dec 06, 2012 6:11 pm Post subject: Is this normal agent behavior?

I was offered representation by an agency. They sent a packet asking me to fill out a W4 and an I9 (in addition to the standard W9) and provide a copy of my SS card and Drivers license. It seems like they are hiring me as an employee, and I have some apprehension about that.

Thoughts?

Deirdre · Posted: Thu Dec 06, 2012 6:28 pm Post subject:

They certainly need this if you are doing union work because you ARE an employee for that stuff.

They need your SSN no matter what because they need to show where the money goes since they'll be writing your checks.
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Bish · Posted: Thu Dec 06, 2012 6:45 pm Post subject:

If you're worried about sending your SS number, get an EIN (Employee Identification Number) from the IRS. It's free, and can be done on-line immediately. This can then legitimately go on your W9 etc.

There may be some kick-back, but it's perfectly legit and supported by the IRS.
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Bish a.k.a. Bish
Smoke me a kipper... I'll be back for breakfast.
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Jason Huggins · Posted: Thu Dec 06, 2012 7:06 pm Post subject:

I'm not worried about the ssn, I just don't know why they would need a W4. That is for tax withholding, which, as a business, I do myself. Do union VO actors get a W2 from agents at the end of the year?

Bish · Posted: Thu Dec 06, 2012 7:19 pm Post subject:

The simple answer is yes and no. Someone in my family has the same issue. Some gigs are with entities that withhold and a W-2 issued at year-end (gig paid less tax), some gigs are not, and paid gross (less agency crap etc.). The W2 is from the employer (production house) and not the agent. It depends on the entity you are working for. e.g. turn up for a soap-opera gig and if it's your first with that production company, have your SS card, proof of ID (passport in some cases) and all sorts of paperwork ready! So your agent will probably want these on file.
_________________
Bish a.k.a. Bish
Smoke me a kipper... I'll be back for breakfast.
I will not feed the trolls... I will not feed the trolls... I will not feed the trolls... I will not feed the trolls.

ballenberg · Posted: Thu Dec 06, 2012 9:24 pm Post subject:

ahorter answer--not exactly--W2's would come from paymasters not atgents, but the forms are needed--nothing shady there, just busness

Jason Huggins · Posted: Thu Dec 06, 2012 11:17 pm Post subject:

Good to know it is common practice. I guess dealing with a W2 at the end of the year is a small price to pay for broader representation. Thanks good people of the Board!

On a side note...if you stare at the snowflakes when you're tired, they start to fall. Pretty.

Philip Banks · Posted: Fri Dec 07, 2012 12:39 am Post subject:

For some US work even I have to do that stuff and I don't pay nuthun!

ballenberg · Posted: Fri Dec 07, 2012 5:12 am Post subject:

My abundant typos prove I should not type late at night

Bob Bergen · CM Joined: 22 Apr 2008 Posts: 980

Absolutely normal business procedure!