Protect Yourself

Don't Get Scammed! Look Before You Leap

Read ALL of the "fine print" and get legal advice before you buy services or sign a contract. Look carefully at all up-front fees and payments and confirm whether they are standard in the industry.

Get all the information you can before you sign. Check the Artists' and Models' Information Service (AMIS) website. Review ACTRA Toronto's No Cheque List. Ask lots of questions and talk to other performers about their experiences working with this organization.

Can You Cancel a Bad Contract?

You have 10 days to cancel a contract for any reason. Cancel in writing. (You can use this sample letter.) Be able to prove that you cancelled the contract - a copy of your letter and a receipt for registered mail, fax or e-mail are best.

You can cancel a contract if goods or services are not provided within 30 days of the date promised, or if there was a "false, misleading or deceptive" representation. Get more information and sample letters here. Cancel in writing and keep copies and proof.

Speak out!

If you have a problem with an agent that is a member of the Entertainment Industry Coalition (EIC) you can file a complaint with the EIC. Download a complaint form.

You can file a complaint about an agent or service provider with AMIS, the Acting and Modelling Information Service. Visit the AMIS website or call AMIS at (416) 977-3832.

In some situations you may want to consider taking your issue to Small Claims Court.

The Complaint Courier at the the Ontario Ministry of Consumer and Business Services accepts complaints about businesses on-line. Or call (416) 326-8800 to make your complaint to the government.