Parent information
Child Actor and Model Earnings
Typical Kids Talent Agency session fees, additional payments and commercial buyouts, with a clear explanation of what a parent receives before accepting work.
The direct answer
How much can a child earn?
Our usual basic session fee is £60 an hour with a two-hour minimum. Depending on the job, travel, accommodation or chaperone payments are commonly an additional £150–£300. The client’s confirmed offer always controls.
Commercial work may also include a usage payment or buyout. These can range from about £1,500 to more than £20,000, depending on the media, countries, duration and exclusivity. No level of work or income is guaranteed.
Understanding the quote
What may make up a fee
Session fee
Sometimes called a basic studio fee, this covers the agreed attendance or performance time. Check what happens if the day runs longer.
Usage payment
The value can depend on where the work appears, for how long and in which countries. Extensions should be agreed before continued use.
Fittings and rehearsals
These may be included or paid separately. Confirm what is expected and whether travel or waiting time is covered.
Expenses
Check whether travel, accommodation, meals or a parent chaperone's costs are reimbursed and what receipts are required.
Common questions answered
What will the booking offer tell me?
What is the gross fee?
The offer states the fee before commission, identifies the session, rehearsal or fitting payment and says whether travel or other expenses are included.
What does a buyout cover?
The offer should identify the media, countries, length of use and any exclusivity. A longer period or wider campaign usually increases the value.
When will we be paid?
The agency pays the net amount after the client’s cleared funds arrive. Production payment times vary, so a booking date is not the same as a payment date.
Can usage be extended?
Yes, but an extension requires a further agreement. Tell the agency if you see the campaign running beyond the confirmed period.
Records and tax
Keep complete payment records
Keep the booking confirmation, licence information, remittance advice, receipts and correspondence about usage. Payment from a client can take time, and the agency can normally pay the performer only after cleared funds arrive.
Tax circumstances differ. A parent or guardian should keep records and obtain current guidance from HMRC or a qualified adviser when needed.
Important: Advertising usage can be extended only by agreement. Tell the agency if you notice a campaign continuing beyond the period originally confirmed.
Understand the net payment
Use the commission guide to calculate the usual deduction from the gross fee. The actual booking offer will set out the job-specific figures and usage before you decide.