AFM/SAG-AFTRA Intellectual Property Rights Distribution Fund

Who It Covers:

  • AFM: American Federation of Musicians – covers instrumentalists and session players
  • SAG-AFTRA: Screen Actors Guild – American Federation of Television and Radio Artists – covers vocalists and background singers

This fund pays performers who:

  • Played instruments or sang on someone else’s recording
  • Did not receive featured artist or label credit
  • Are listed in the liner notes/session logs


 What Royalties It Distributes:

  • Digital performance royalties from SoundExchange
  • Platforms include:
    • Pandora (non-interactive)
    • SiriusXM
    • iHeartRadio simulcasts
    • Digital cable radio (Music Choice, etc.)


 How You Earn:

  • 5% of all SoundExchange royalties are set aside for non-featured performers
  • The fund tracks usage and pays out twice per year
  • You don’t have to be a union member to receive payment


 How to Get Paid:

  1. Visit afmsagaftrafund.org
  2. Search for your name in their unclaimed royalties list
  3. If you’ve performed on any commercial recordings, register as a performer
  4. Submit session info if needed (credits, liner notes, union reports)


 Important Notes:

  • You can collect royalties even if you're not in the union.
  • You must claim your performances and keep your contact info updated.
  • These are digital-only royalties—live shows and downloads are not included.
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