WHERE'S MY MONEY?!!!

[l3forum]

Operators/Coordinators/Producers/Directors:
Has a crewer/client ever stiffed you on money (never paid you for a show you did)? What did you do to resolve this? Would/did you ever work for them again? Discuss.

[Windsor]

Ya know, whenever I have a problem, my father says the same thing; "You should have them sign a contract". I end up telling him the same thing. "our industry doesnt work like that". I tell him, we are like plummers. They call, we come, no contract needed. But, Plummers get paid before they leave the site, right?

Most full-time freelance folks "fly by the seat of our pants". No contracts, most have no insurance. We are really the daredevils of our profession. We need a (be carefull, here comes the "U" word) UNION!!! Lets try to forget, there are 50 newbies ready to try our seat for free!

Interestingly enough, with all the big time crewers out there who promise this 30-45 day net, only ONE has ever paid me on time (thanks Randall, ). Lets put our heads together. I recently received a 100 day late check. That's ridiculous! I dont need to say names here do I? This person ignored all calls and E-mails for months. Are we asking for something that is not ours? A note would have been nice! Not much, just "I know I owe you, I am working on it, will contact you with an update". Oh yeah, i was promised an update. I know it was a dismissive statement when it was uttered.

Also, there is the fear of not being hired again if you "blow the whistle". Dont we have power? Dont we MAKE THE SHOW?

Dont get me started!!!!!!!!