BMI Payment Schedule 2024 : Eligibility Criteria, How to track it?

BMI’s 2024 Payment Schedule ! Royalty Distributions Happen Quarterly in February, May, August, and November. Check Out the Dates Below :

BMI Payment Schedule 2024

Here’s the 2024 Payment Schedule. Royalties are Distributed Quarterly in February, May, August, and November, as per BMI’s Official Website .

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Quarter Earning Period Payment Date
3rd Quarter 2023 October-December 2023 February 16, 2024
4th Quarter 2023 January-March 2024 May 17, 2024
1st Quarter 2024 April-June 2024 August 16, 2024
2nd Quarter 2024 July-September 2024 November 15, 2024

 

Important Note: The BMI payment schedule mentioned above is subject to change at BMI’s discretion. Keep in mind, there are specific minimum thresholds for payment via check or wire transfer. For May and November distributions, the minimum amount is $250.00, while for August, it’s $25.00.

BMI Payment 2024 Eligibility Criteria

BMI Payments: Two Key Factors – Your Affiliation and Your Music’s Performance.

Getting Paid by BMI: Here’s How it Works!

Affiliation:

  1. Songwriters and Composers: To receive BMI payments, you must be affiliated with BMI as a songwriter or composer. This involves signing a contract with BMI, granting them the right to collect and distribute royalties on your behalf. A one-time affiliation fee is typically required.
  2. Music Publishers: Music publishers can also affiliate with BMI to manage royalty collection for their clients’ works.

Performance of Your Music:

  1. Public Performance: Your music must be publicly performed in a way covered by a BMI license. This includes radio and TV airplay, streaming services, live performances in licensed venues, and more.
  2. Exclusivity: Performances covered by other PROs (Performing Rights Organizations) are not eligible for BMI payments.
  3. Originality: Public domain works generally do not generate royalties unless they are significantly reworked or arranged.
  4. Song Registration: Registering your songs with BMI ensures they are properly tracked and royalties collected accurately.
  5. Keep Information Updated: Ensure your contact details and song information are up to date in your BMI account to receive payments promptly.
  6. Split Sheets: For collaborative works, establish “split sheets” outlining royalty share percentages among writers, publishers, etc.

BMI Payment Schedule 2024

BMI Payment Thresholds

BMI sets minimum thresholds for royalties before they send you a payment. Here’s how it works based on your chosen payment method:

  1. Check or Wire Transfer:
    • $250 for payments in February, May, and November.
    • $25 for the August payment.
  2. Direct Deposit:
    • Only $2.00 for any quarter.

Why the Differences?

  • Checks and wire transfers have higher thresholds to help BMI manage administrative costs.
  • Direct deposit is more efficient, so the threshold is lower.
Payment Method Minimum Threshold (February, May, November) Minimum Threshold (August)
Check or wire transfer $250 $25
Direct deposit $2.00 $2.00

How to track your BMI payment ?

  1. Log in to your account: Visit https://www.bmi.com/login.
  2. Check the “Statements” section: Here, you’ll find your royalty statements for each quarter, showing details like earned royalties, licensing sources, and deductions.
  3. Review past statements: Access statements from previous quarters to track your earning history.
  4. View upcoming payment info: See if you’ve met the minimum threshold for the next distribution and get an estimate of your payment amount.

Factors Affecting BMI Payment

What You Need to Know

Performance:

  1. Frequency and Reach: The more your music is played, the more you can earn.
  2. Type of Performance: BMI-licensed venues generate royalties, others may not.
  3. Territory and Licensing Fees: Royalties vary based on where your music is played.

Song Structure and Composition:

  1. Number of Writers: Royalties are split among writers as per agreements.
  2. Length of Composition: Longer songs typically earn more.
  3. Composition Type: Vocal songs may earn differently from instrumentals.

BMI’s Distribution Process:

  1. Timing and Thresholds: Quarterly payments have minimum thresholds based on payment method.
  2. Deductions and Adjustments: Expect deductions for fees and taxes.

External Factors:

  1. Industry Trends: Changes in streaming or live music can affect overall royalties.
  2. Economic Conditions: Broader economic changes may impact the music industry.

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