Revised: 2007-10-04

These are some things to remember when negotiating rates for broadcasting work for the BBC and national TV. And please send us your accounts of successful negotiations.

• The rates suggested for copyright work are for limited licences: each extra use licensed should attract an extra fee.
• The current standard licence offered by the BBC for radio features is exclusive for two years and permits non-exclusive thereafter - but the NUJ is working on improving this and individual freelances may also be able to negotiate variations.
• The rates are suggested as minima from which freelances will negotiate upward according to their experience and specialist knowledge and the value of the work.
• Rates for supply of footage vary enormously depending on the nature and newsworthiness of the event captured. Be especially careful to be clear about what uses are licensed - and how syndication income will be divided if the camera-person allows the broadcaster to sell on.
• The rates for shifts are going rates: remember that paid time off should be added automatically - see Shift payments - tax and time off.
• Freelances who are registered for VAT will add it to every invoice.

The rates negotiated with the BBC are current until 31 July 2008. They should serve as a guide for other broadcasters, bearing in mind the size of their audience.

Generally useful links: