Professional actors have access to health insurance benefits through their unions. To be eligible, members must meet a minimum wage (SAG-AFTRA) or a minimum number of weeks of work (capital) for a specified period of time in order to receive coverage for a subsequent period of coverage. Many actors who receive their health insurance through a union are at risk of losing it, if they haven't already lost it. Most union actors are eligible for health insurance through a plan provided by the union.
However, that insurance is generally based on the amount of work they do or the amount of income they earn throughout the year. At least for film and television actors, the Film Actors Guild, which includes almost all actors, provides health and other insurance. In the industry, actors and other film workers often obtain insurance through their unions. However, many say they don't have enough hours or stable work as actors to meet the income requirements to apply. Last summer, the SAG-AFTRA Health Plan announced significant changes that immediately put the health insurance of its more than 33,000 participants, along with its 32,000 dependents, at immediate risk. The lack of health insurance has long been part of an artist's life, even though health problems can have a particularly debilitating effect on artists' careers. The federal law that went into effect this year made it easier for people to take out health insurance on their own, as coverage is guaranteed regardless of pre-existing health conditions and there are subsidies to make premiums more affordable. For professional actors who are unable to obtain health insurance through their union, there are other options available.
The Affordable Care Act (ACA) provides access to health care coverage for those who qualify. The ACA also provides subsidies to help make premiums more affordable. Additionally, some states offer Medicaid programs that provide free or low-cost health care coverage for those who qualify. In addition to these options, there are also private health insurance plans available. These plans may be more expensive than those offered through unions or the ACA but may provide better coverage and more flexibility.
It is important to research all available options before making a decision. For professional actors looking for health insurance options, understanding the different types of plans available and researching all available options is key. Knowing what is covered by each plan and how much it will cost is essential in order to make an informed decision about which plan is best for you.
