Standard Ultra-Low Budget Program

Frequently asked questions…

Q1: Is there an application fee?

A:   No.

Q2: What is the maximum budget amount that will be considered for approval under the Standard Ultra-Low Budget Program?

A: UBCP/ACTRA reviews all project applications on a case-by-case basis.  The vast majority of accepted applications under the Standard Ultra-Low Budget Program have total cash costs of less than $150,000.  “Total Cash Costs” include but is not limited to all sums paid for goods and services including payment of cast and crew fees, tape or film stock, equipment hire, insurance premiums, and post production facilities.  “Total Non-Cash Costs” should be included in a separate column in the budget, and include, but are not limited to all waivers, donations; and ‘in-kind’ goods and services.

Q3: Am I required to compensate Performers under the Standard ULB Agreement?

A: Yes, all Performers (both Union and non-Union), receive a minimum fee of $100 per day. Performers are able to negotiate a higher rate and deductions are not required to be made. The agreement does not require the Producer to compensate volunteers for background performance.

Q4: What insurance is required under the Standard ULB Agreement?

WorkSafe BC insurance is required by BC Law as Performers are receiving compensation.

Accident on Set insurance from AFBS is required for any unpaid Union Members that may be in a background role. Please see www.accidentonset.ca for additional information, or contact the Program Administrator at admin@accidentonset.ca

If your production includes stunts, UBCP/ACTRA requires you to have Commercial General Liability coverage (please see Schedule A for details)

Q3: How many UBCP/ACTRA members must I cast?  Am I permitted to cast non-Union members?

A: Many productions have both Union and non-Union members.  There is no limitation or restriction as to how many UBCP/ACTRA members you must cast. You may cast all UBCP/ACTRA members, or just one.

Q4: Is it possible to include a non-Canadian Performer in my production?

A: Under special circumstances, UBCP/ACTRA may consider allowing a maximum of one (1) star Performer who is not a Canadian Citizen or Permanent Resident. Please contact a ULB Program Administrator for more information.

Q5: If a non-member performs on an ultra-low budget production, may they use the performance as a credit for membership?

A: No.  Working on an ultra-low budget production does not count as a credit toward Union membership.

Q6: We may shoot at a location in which we will require the Performers to stay overnight. Is this permitted?

A: The Ultra-Low Budget Program may allow Performers to stay overnight at a distant location. Please contact an Ultra-Low Budget administrator for more information about our travel requirements.

Q7: Why do we need to include SIN numbers on the final cast list?

A: UBCP/ACTRA requires the address, SIN number, and number of days worked for each Performer.  This information is used by UBCP/ACTRA for the sole purpose of distributing residuals that may be owed to Performers should your project generate revenue.

Q8: We’ve made some revenue on our production! What’s next?

A: Under terms of the Standard Ultra-Low Budget Program, Producers agree to pay Performers 5% of the Distributor’s Gross Revenue.  If your production generates revenue, please contact our Distribution Department – 604-689-0727

Do you have a question that hasn’t been answered? E-mail ulbprogram@ubcpactra.ca or call 604-689-0727