Benefits
Why join Local 802? Musicians can achieve more pay, benefits, job security and respect with a union than if they try to negotiate separately on their own. Secondly, the union movement empowers all of us to work together for more justice, equality, diversity, inclusiveness and fairness in all of society – it’s a great way to be a part of social change. Thirdly, there are some core benefits in joining Local 802, which you can see below. If you’re not a member of Local 802 yet, you can click here to join right now to get access to the benefits below.
AFM Referral Service (get your name out there for union gigs!)
Broadway musicians (credits & contact info for each Broadway show)
Flying With Your Instrument
Health Care
Every time you work a union gig, your employer contributes to the Local 802 Musicians Health Fund on your behalf. If a certain amount of contributions are made on your behalf during a six-month contribution period, you will be eligible for health coverage during the corresponding six-month coverage period.
Pension
Every time you work a union gig, your employer contributes to the American Federation of Musicians and Employers’ Pension Fund on your behalf. The pension fund allows musicians to accumulate individual pension credits throughout their careers and secure a financially sustainable retirement.
Rehearsal Space Rental
Access to rehearsal space rental at Local 802 at reduced rates. To reserve rehearsal space, contact Maureen Cupid-Pierre.
Musicians’ Assistance Program & Emergency Relief Fund
All Local 802 members and their families are eligible for the Musicians Assistance Program, a free and confidential program administered and professionally staffed by the Entertainment Community Fund (formerly the Actors Fund). The program’s services include emergency financial aid, counseling, referrals, and resources for anything ranging from personal, family, and work issues and substance abuse to childcare, elder care, financial assistance, legal services, and work/life seminars on topics like financial management and healthcare.
Union Organizers and Business Representatives
Assistance to resolve issues at your workplace, win and enforce union contracts. Start here.
Actors Federal Credit Union
You’re eligible to join the Actors Federal Credit Union as an 802 member. AFCU is owned and run by its members, meaning any net income earned is returned to members in the form of dividends on deposits or discounted loan pricing, including affordable instrument loans.
Instrument Insurance
There are a number of insurance policies Local 802 members can access through the AFM. The instrument insurance policy allows coverage for your equipment for theft or when it’s off premises or in transit. Learn more about the plan.
Lester Petrillo Memorial Fund for Disabled Musicians
The Memorial Fund is a charitable trust fund that provides financial aid to disabled AFM members on an emergency basis. To learn more about the Memorial Fund and how to apply for aid, log into your MyAFM account, which all AFM members are eligible to create.
Anne Walker Scholarship Fund
Each year, Anne Walker Scholarships are awarded to members of Local 802 and their children who are pursuing the study of music at an institution of higher learning. The deadline to apply each year is typically in early May.
Music Performance Trust Fund
Funding is available for musical performances meeting certain guidelines set by the Recording Industries Music Performance Fund. A co-sponsor is required. Contact MPTF administrator Marisa Friedman for more information.
Options for Legal Advice
AFM’s Union Plus Program
As a current or retired union member, you are automatically eligible for AFM’s Union Plus Benefits. Create a free account and find out what discounts and benefits you’re eligible for.
Friedman Health Center for the Performing Arts
A health center conveniently located in Times Square for NYC’s entertainment community, so you can make appointments before or after gigs! The Health Center is a program of The Actors Fund and Mount Sinai Doctors, offering primary and specialty care.
Allegro
All Local 802 members receive our monthly digital newsletter of news and articles important to the music industry and our union, including audition announcements!