Between projects? We can help. Unemployment, disability, and family leave FAQ.
The entertainment industry lets you jump from one unique experience to the next, but while your next job can take you just about anywhere, you likely have some questions about the brief period between projects—How do you sustain yourself during downtime? What about your disability accommodations? If you need to take family leave, what do you do?
Don’t panic. This is where we come in.
For your convenience, we’ve assembled a collection of the most common questions we’re asked by entertainment professionals about the period between productions:
Unemployment
Q: Whom should I list as my last employer when filing for unemployment?
A: You should list the entity through which you were last paid. This company name can be found on your paystub by checking the logo in the top corner.
Q: Which wages should I report to unemployment?
A: All wages should be reported, including holiday payouts.
Q: Whom do I list as my supervisor on my unemployment claim?
A: If necessary, you should list the department head / supervisor of your most recent production in the “Supervisor” field in the unemployment claim.
Q: Whom should I contact if I have questions about unemployment or need EDD ID#'s for Cast & Crew, CAPS, PAI / New Payroll Associates, or Media Services?
A: You can send an email to unemployment@castandcrew.com or call 888-570-4650 with any questions. You can also visit our resource library for more information.
Disability
Q: When filing for disability benefits, whom should I list as my employer?
A: You should list the entity through which you were last paid. This company name can be found on your paystub by checking the logo in the top corner.
Q: Who completes Medicare Part B for me?
A: Your union representative should complete Medicare Part B. Please reach out to your union or guild for more information.
Q: Who can assist with New Jersey / New York state disability claim forms?
A: You can find more information by visiting the Cast & Crew list of FAQ.
Paid Family Leave
Q: What is Paid Family Leave (PFL)?
A: Various state employers are required to offer paid family leave to eligible employees. The Paid Family Leave program provides wage replacement and job protection for employees who take time off work to bond with a new child, care for a family member with a serious health condition or assist when a family member is deployed abroad on active military duty.
Q: Where can I find information about the Paid Family Leave program?
A: Each state has its own requirements for Paid Family Leave. For specific information on individual states’ paid family and medical leave laws, visit our resource library.
We’re here to help
We know this kind of stuff can be confusing, so please don’t hesitate to reach out to us with your questions and concerns. There are numerous resources available to make your life easier while you’re focused on landing the next big gig.