Agency Commission
The percentage an agency keeps from each job before paying the model. Typically 20% in most markets, but can range from 10% to 25%, and the model often pays a separate service charge or markup on top.
What it means in practice
20% has been the industry standard for decades. The agency takes 20% of the model's gross fee for the job. Many agencies also charge the client a service fee — often another 20% on top of the model's rate — which the client pays separately. On a $5,000 booking, a model might net $4,000 after agency commission, and the agency might earn $1,000 from the model plus another $1,000 from the client. The NY Fashion Workers Act (effective June 2025) capped commission at 20% in New York and banned signing fees or deposits.
How it affects what you get paid
Commission above 25% warrants questions, not panic. Some specialty markets and emerging-market agencies legitimately charge more. But every percentage point above 20% is real money over a career. Always ask exactly what the agency's commission is, what other fees may be deducted (markup, service charges, marketing fees), and whether mother-agency commission stacks on top.
Related terms
See also
Researched by Bec. Last updated 2026-05-02.
