So you’ve decided to take your screenwriting career to the next level by joining the Writers Guild of America (WGA).
Excellent choice! The WGA is a game-changer for screenwriters – offering everything from legal protection to networking opportunities.
But how do you get your foot in the door? Let’s dive in.
Key Takeaways
- Types of Membership: Choose between Current membership, requiring a minimum of 24 units in the last three years, and Associate membership for those with fewer units.
- Unit System: Accumulate units by securing writing gigs or making sales with WGA signatory companies; units vary based on the type and duration of the project. (Table provided below)
- Costs and Fees: Prepare for a $2,500 initiation fee for Current membership or $100 per year for Associate membership, with payment plans often available.
- Additional Rules: Be aware of unique unit calculations for comedy-variety shows and documentaries, as well as special conditions for writing teams and writer-owned companies.
Each section below includes an actionable step to keep you on track
Types of WGA Membership: Current vs. Associate
Before you can join the WGA, you need to understand the two types of membership:
Current and Associate.
Your eligibility for either depends on the number of “units” you’ve earned through writing employment or sales.
Current Membership
To qualify for Current membership, you’ll need to accumulate at least 24 units within the three years leading up to your application.
Once you’ve hit that magic number, you’ll be required to pay an initiation fee of $2,500.
Actionable Step: Keep track of all your writing assignments and sales to ensure you reach the 24-unit threshold.
Associate Membership
If you’ve earned fewer than 24 units in the past three years, don’t worry. You can still join as an Associate member.
This membership lasts for three years and costs $100 per year.
Actionable Step: If you’re new to screenwriting or have fewer credits, aim for Associate membership as a stepping stone.
The Unit System: Your Pathway to Membership
The WGA operates on a unit system, which is essentially a point system that tracks your writing employment and/or sales. These units are earned within the Guild’s jurisdiction and with a “signatory” company, meaning a company that has signed the Guild’s collective bargaining agreement.
Understanding the Schedule of Units
Different types of writing assignments earn you different units. Here’s a quick rundown:
Table 1: Schedule of Units
| Units Earned | Criteria for Earning Units |
| Two Units | For each complete week of employment within the Guild’s jurisdiction on a week-to-week basis. |
| Three Units | Story for a radio or TV program less than 30 minutes, prorated in 10-minute increments. |
| Four Units | Story for a short subject theatrical motion picture or for a radio or TV program or breakdown for a non-primetime serial 30-60 minutes. |
| Six Units | Teleplay or radio play less than 30 minutes, prorated in five-minute increments; TV format for a new serial or series; “Created By” credit. |
| Eight Units | Story for a radio or TV program or breakdown for a non-primetime serial 60-90 minutes; Screenplay for a short subject theatrical motion picture or for a radio play or teleplay 30-60 minutes. |
| 12 Units | Story for a radio or TV program 90 minutes or longer; Story for a feature-length theatrical motion picture; Breakdown for a non-primetime serial 90 minutes or longer; Radio play or teleplay 60-90 minutes. |
| 24 Units | Screenplay for a feature-length theatrical motion picture; Radio play or teleplay 90 minutes or longer. |
Table 2: Additional Unit Criteria
| Task Type | Unit Calculation |
| A Rewrite | 50% of the units for the original work category. |
| A Polish | 25% of the units for the original work category. |
| An Option | 50% of the units for the original work category, capped at 8 units per project per year; no additional units for renewals. |
Actionable Step: Familiarize yourself with the types of assignments that earn you the most units to fast-track your membership. (1)
Costs and Fees: What You Need to Know
So you’ve got your units in order and you’re ready to make it official.
But hold on, what’s this going to cost you?
Understanding the financial aspect of WGA membership is crucial, so let’s break it down.
Initiation Fees
For Current membership, you’ll need to shell out an initiation fee of $2,500.
Associate membership is a bit lighter on the wallet, costing $100 per year for up to three years.
Payment Plans and Options
Good news! The WGA often offers payment plans for the initiation fee. Some writers opt to pay it off in installments.
Actionable Step: Contact the WGA to inquire about payment plans and see if you qualify.
Additional Membership Rules: Beyond the Basics
You’ve got the basics down, but the WGA has some additional rules that could affect your membership. Let’s get into the nitty-gritty.
Comedy-Variety and Documentaries
If you’re writing for comedy-variety shows or documentaries, the unit system has special conditions. The number of units you earn can vary based on the number of writers on the project and the program’s duration.
Teams and Writer-Owned Companies
Collaborating with another writer? Each writer on a bona fide team earns units.
If your company is writer-owned, you’ll need a third-party agreement to qualify.
Actionable Step: Always read the fine print and consult the WGA’s official guidelines for these special cases.
Unique Cases and Exceptions
In some cases, the Board of Directors can make exceptions or adjustments to the unit system. If your situation is unique, don’t hesitate to reach out to the WGA for clarification.
Actionable Step: If you’re unsure about your eligibility, consult the WGA directly. They’re there to help!
Benefits of Joining the WGA
You’re not just paying for a membership card; you’re investing in your career. WGA membership comes with a host of benefits, from legal protection to health benefits and networking opportunities.
Real-Life Success Stories
Ever heard of Shonda Rhimes or Aaron Sorkin?
They’re WGA members, and their careers speak volumes about the advantages of being part of this esteemed organization.
Actionable Step: Look up testimonials and success stories to see how WGA membership can elevate your career.
Conclusion
Joining the Writers Guild of America is a strategic career move. If you are serious about pursuing this line of work, the WGA could be your stepping stone.
From understanding the unit system to navigating additional rules and soaking in the benefits, you’re now armed with all the knowledge you need to take this significant step.
So what are you waiting for?
References:
- Writer’s Guild of America West, “How To Become A Member”, https://www.wga.org/the-guild/going-guild/join-the-guild