Your Reader Guide
Everything you need to know about getting booked on ActorBook
What Is a Reader on ActorBook?
As a reader on ActorBook, you're an independent contractor. You set your own rates, keep every dollar you earn, and choose which bookings to accept. ActorBook simply connects you with actors who need a scene partner.
Setting Up Your Profile
Availability
Block off days you're never available (recurring) and add specific date blocks for one-off conflicts. We won't send you requests on those days.
Timezone
Set your timezone so actors know when you're working. All booking times are displayed in your local time.
Payment Links
Set up Venmo, CashApp, PayPal, or Zelle in your profile. Actors can pay you directly from your profile page with one tap.
How You Get Selected
- 1Actor preps their audition on ActorBook
- 2They browse the Reader Directory
- 3They select up to 5 readers and submit a request — it's first come, first served
- 4The system checks your availability — if you're free, you get a text
The SMS Flow
Here's what the text conversation looks like, step by step.
When a booking request comes in:
Accepting a booking:
Declining with a reason:
Expressing interest (need to coordinate first):
Urgent requests (same-day):
The "Interested" Hold
When you reply 3, you get a 2-hour window to coordinate with the actor before committing. During this time, other readers are placed on hold — you have priority.
Reply CONFIRM to lock it in, or PASS to release the hold and let the next reader have a shot.
If 2 hours pass without a response, the hold releases automatically and the invite goes to the next reader in line.
After You Accept
- —Contact the actor using the phone number provided in the confirmation text
- —Coordinate timing and logistics directly with them
- —Keep all audition materials confidential
- —If the response window expires before you reply, the invite goes to the next reader
Getting Paid
Set up your payment links in your reader profile — Venmo, CashApp, PayPal, or Zelle. Your public profile page displays clickable payment buttons so actors can pay you with one tap.
Before the session: Confirm your rate with the actor when you coordinate the booking.
After the session: Send a payment request through your preferred platform right after wrapping.
ActorBook never takes a cut and is not involved in payment. This is a direct transaction between you and the actor.
Response Windows
| Request Type | Your Response Window |
|---|---|
| Urgent (today) | 1 hour |
| Session within 48 hours | 2 hours |
| Session 3–7 days out | 12 hours |
| Session 8+ days out | 24 hours |
If you don't reply in time, the invite goes to the next reader.
Frequently Asked Questions
How quickly do I need to respond?
It depends on the session date — see the response windows table above. Urgent same-day requests give you 1 hour; sessions a week or more out give you 24 hours.
Can I set my own rates?
Yes. You set your rates in your reader profile and confirm them with the actor when coordinating. ActorBook never takes a cut.
What if another reader already got booked?
You'll receive a text letting you know the booking was filled. No action needed on your part.
Do I need a Pro subscription?
Accepted readers get complimentary Pro access. No subscription purchase required.
How do I update my profile?
Sign in to ActorBook, then navigate to your Reader Profile from the sidebar.
How do I stop receiving booking texts?
Reply STOP to any ActorBook SMS. You can re-enable notifications from your profile settings.
Is my availability visible to actors?
No. Your schedule is completely private. We simply don't send you requests on days you've marked unavailable.
Not a reader yet?
Apply to Be a Reader