The Schedule of Minimums (“SOM”) sets forth the lowest amount a WGA member can receive for writing a script or having a script purchased. This is also known as “WGA scale.” There are many different rates detailed in the Schedule of Minimums for theatrical, television and streaming and distinctions within those categories, such as whether a screenplay is original or non-original.

In this video I will only address theatrical, or film, rates under the Schedule of Minimums.

The minimum rates for theatrical are divided into two categories – high-budget and low budget, with high budget being defined as $5M or more and low budget under $5M.

As an example of the rates, beginning May 2, 2022, until May 1, 2023, the minimum amount that can be paid to a WGA member to write an original screenplay for a film with a budget of less than 5M, including a treatment is $81,220. Without a treatment, the minimum amount is $54,561.

This amount would be the same if producers are purchasing an original screenplay at that same budgetary level. If the purchase is pursuant to an option and script purchase agreement, then the option fee paid to the writer for each option period must be at least 10% of the minimum amount.

So, in this scenario, the option fee would be $5,456.10.

If a writer is being hired to write an original screenplay, the SOM also sets forth the amount of each installment to be paid to the writer for the treatment, the delivery of the first draft and the delivery of the final draft.

In addition to the minimum rates, the SOM also details residual compensation to be paid based on the distributors gross receipts for exhibition of the film on network TV, pay TV, basic cable, new media, video/DVD, and electronic sales such as iTunes.

The SOM also sets forth required payments for Pension, Health, and other benefits.

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