Now is the right time to become an American Federation of Musicians member. From ragtime to rap, from the early phonograph to today's digital recordings, the AFM has been there for its members. And now there are more benefits available to AFM members than ever before, including a multi-million dollar pension fund, excellent contract protection, instrument and travelers insurance, work referral programs and access to licensed booking agents to keep you working.

As an AFM member, you are part of a membership of more than 80,000 musicians. Experience has proven that collective activity on behalf of individuals with similar interests is the most effective way to achieve a goal. The AFM can negotiate agreements and administer contracts, procure valuable benefits and achieve legislative goals. A single musician has no such power.

The AFM has a proud history of managing change rather than being victimized by it. We find strength in adversity, and when the going gets tough, we get creative - all on your behalf.

Like the industry, the AFM is also changing and evolving, and its policies and programs will move in new directions dictated by its members. As a member, you will determine these directions through your interest and involvement. Your membership card will be your key to participation in governing your union, keeping it responsive to your needs and enabling it to serve you better. To become a member now, visit www.afm.org/join.

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Home » Recent News » AFM Applauds Proposed Tax Fix for Musicians


AFM Applauds Proposed Tax Fix for Musicians

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The American Federation of Musicians of the United States and Canada (AFM) applauds the introduction in mid-July of bipartisan legislation to help ensure musicians and other working performers are not unintentionally hit with tax increases after the passage of the Tax Cut and Jobs Act.

Many musicians are employees who incur significant expenses including concert clothing, travel costs, rehearsal space, studio time, instruments, and instrument repairs. Under prior law, the IRS allowed a deduction for necessary expenses incurred in connection with employment. The Tax Cuts and Jobs Act eliminated this ability to claim miscellaneous itemized deductions, which allowed performers to deduct work expenses. Many musicians can now pay substantially more in taxes as a result.

The Performing Artist Tax Parity Act (PATPA), introduced by U.S. Representative Judy Chu (D-CA) and Vern Buchanan (R-FL), would update the Qualified Performing Artist (QPA) tax deduction to help musicians and other performers deduct the costs of work-related expenses.

“Most working musicians and other performers need every penny they earn to survive in this economy. Musicians cannot afford to lose these deductions. We thank Representatives Chu and Buchanan for this much needed tax fix,” says AFM International President Ray Hair.







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