Let's set the scene: your child books a job and your family couldn't be more excited!  You get word from your agent about the job, where the shoot will be, and what you need to wear.  You inform your school that your child will be missing class, and you collect the proper study materials and assignments.  You pack a bag with snack items, school items and extra things to keep you both busy.

The day of the shoot arrives; excitement and nerves are high.  You report to the set.  You feel prepared, you've listened to your agent, you've read a ton of CIF information, and you're ready to go!

But if you've ever experienced this scenario, you are already quite familiar with the multitude of documents and paperwork you get bombarded with upon arriving on set.  Production and/or the studio teacher will ask for your permit and coogan account information and there will be documents to fill out that you may or may not have been warned about. 

Consider this your warning.  We want you to be prepared!

Work Permit - in California, a current and valid entertainment work permit must be presented to the personnel (usually the studio teacher) upon arrival.  Check your local state laws to find out the requirements in your state.  If you use CIF's permit service, you'll receive your permit in an easy to use folder that will allow you to carry your additional paperwork as well.

Coogan Account Info - Make sure to have a statement of trustee for proof of a minor blocked trust account.  Bring your account information with you.  Check your state laws to see if a blocked trust account is required in your state as it is in CA and NY.

W-2 Form - this form is related to your child's taxes and you'll receive one whenever you work.  You will be asked for an SSN and how many deductions you want to claim. You will use your child's social security number. "If your child does not have one, the parent should contact the local office of the Social Security Administration to obtain one," suggests David K. Rogers of Actors Tax Prep.   "They will need a certified copy of the child's birth certificate to obtain the number and you will fill out Form SS-5."

W-9 - you'll be asked to fill out a W-9 when working as an independent contractor.  In this situation, no taxes are withheld, but a SSN is required for your 1099.  Make sure you realize that taxes will be owed come tax time.

I-9 - An I-9 document proves that you have the legal right to work in the US.  The I-9 form requires you to attach supporting documents such as a passport or birth certificate, social security card, etc.

Time Card (Voucher) - Production will give you a time card to complete.  There are two kinds - union and non union.  If you have representation, your agent will ask you to use their info in lieu of your own when completing this form.  This is to ensure that your pay check goes to their office for documentation and payment processing. This is standard, so you don't need to be alarmed that your paychecks go to them first.