Per diems

A per diem is a daily payment. In this case, it is a payment to songwriters invited to attend writing sessions organised by UK record labels.

Per diems help recognise the value of a songwriter’s time and ensure songwriters are not left out of pocket when attending writing sessions.

You can claim a per diem if:

• You are a UK-based songwriter
• The writing session takes place in the UK
• The session is organised and paid for by a UK record label

Additional eligibility criteria may apply depending on the label organising the session.

The Ivors Academy provides a standardised per diem claim form to support claims.

You can complete the form and submit it to the relevant record label, or apply for payment through The Ivors Academy if the session was organised by Sony Music Group UK labels.

Using the form ensures all required information is captured and helps avoid delays.

You must be a member of The Ivors Academy to use the form. There is a free Discovery membership option available. Join today.

The UK’s three major record companies have committed to introducing per diems plus expenses for songwriters attending their writing sessions:

• Universal Music Group UK labels
• Warner Music Group UK labels
• Sony Music Group UK labels

The BPI and the Association of Independent Music have also agreed principles encouraging all UK record companies to ensure songwriters are not left out of pocket when invited to writing sessions. Find out more.

The per diem is £75 per day, regardless of how long the writing session lasts.

Universal Music Group UK labels and Warner Music Group UK labels pay this rate directly. Sony Music Group UK label per diems are paid through the Sony Music Songwriter Support Fund, administered by The Ivors Academy.

Other labels may offer different arrangements and you should ask the record company representative or the person who invited you to the session what support they offer and how to access it.

Per diem payments from Universal Music Group UK labels, Warner Music Group UK labels and the Sony Music Songwriter Support Fund are non-recoupable from featured artists.

This means the payment will not be deducted from future royalties.

Independent labels may apply different terms.

For questions about claiming expenses in addition to per diems, contact your record company representative or the person who invited you to the session. Please note that expense terms will vary and should be confirmed in advance of the writing session.

Payment processes, eligibility requirements and terms are set by the record label organising the writing session.

For details about payment arrangements and label-specific terms, contact your record company representative or the person who invited you to the session.

If you have questions, contact The Ivors Academy perdiems@ivorsacademy.com