Can Agents Double Dip?
You open your paycheck.
You do the math.
And suddenly you think:
“Did my agent just take too much?”
Before you pick up the phone angry…
Let’s clarify something.
👇 Watch the full breakdown here:
Most actors don’t fail because of talent.
They fail because they don’t understand business.
And misunderstanding how agent commissions work is one of the fastest ways to damage a relationship you can’t afford to lose.
“There’s no law against double dipping.”
That’s the reality.
Here’s what that means.
What “Double Dipping” Actually Is
Let’s say you book a commercial.
Union scale: $628 for the day.
Plus 10%.
In many cases:
• Your agent takes 10% from your pay.
• The agency also receives 10% from production.
That’s not a mistake.
That’s structure.
For print work, it may be 20% and 20%.
It feels like 20% out of your pocket.
But contractually, it’s two separate commissions.
Why Actors Blow This Up
Here’s what usually happens:
Actor sees deduction.
Actor assumes dishonesty.
Actor calls agent emotional.
Relationship gets strained.
Not because the agent did something illegal.
But because the actor didn’t understand their contract.
Actors are trained to avoid conflict.
Professionals learn to resolve it.
The Smart Way to Handle It
If something looks off:
• Re-read your contract.
• Do the math.
• Confirm structure.
Then approach your agent calmly if needed.
Never lead with accusation.
Lead with clarity.
Can You Negotiate It?
Yes.
But only when you have leverage.
If you’ve booked nationals.
If you’re renewing your deal.
If you bring value.
You can request:
“I don’t want 10 and 10. I want only 10%.”
They may agree.
They may not.
That’s business.
“You don’t want to avoid conflict — you want to resolve it.”
The Real Lesson
Talent gets you in the room.
Business keeps you there.
If you don’t understand how commissions work, you create emotional reactions that cost you opportunities.
Read your contract.
Do the math.
Lead with clarity.
Want to Handle Business Like a Pro? Build Leverage?
If you want to understand how to position yourself properly ~ not just creatively, but professionally ~ join the Free Zoom Audit Class.
Because talent gets you noticed.
Business keeps you working.
We break down strategy, leverage, and positioning ~ so you’re never guessing when money is involved.
