East Coast Motion Picture Industry Pension & Health Plans Rate Increase 2026

Each year, the Motion Picture Industry Pension & Health Plans (MPIPHP) Executive Board reviews the hourly rate that employers pay for the “East Coast” health and pension coverage. This rate is essential for ensuring the continued stability and quality of benefits for thousands of motion picture professionals who work on productions based outside of the traditional Hollywood hub.

Changes for 2026 take effect March 22, 2026. Here’s what you need to know about the “East Coast” MPIPHP rate increase for 2026, including who it impacts and how the new rates will affect projects and pay.

Key information:

➡️ New rate: $21.047/hour
➡️ Previous rate: $19.311/hour
➡️ Effective date: March 22, 2026
➡️ Increase: $1.736/hour (8.99%)

A Closer Look at the 2026 Rate Increase 

Effective March 22, 2026, the hourly contribution rate for the "East Coast" Motion Picture Industry Pension & Health Plans increases from $19.311 to $21.047 per hour.

Why does the MPIPHP rate change annually?

Every year, the MPIPHP Executive Board assesses the health of the plan, expected costs, and industry needs. Adjustments are made to keep the plan strong, stable, and able to meet the needs of its participants. Rising healthcare costs, pension obligations, and the demand for robust benefits are all contributing factors. 

Who does the MPIPHP rate change affect?

Not every union worker or motion picture employee is subject to the “East Coast” rate. Here’s a breakdown of the members and roles impacted by the 2026 increase:

Covered Unions & Positions:

• Local 600 (International Cinematographers Guild): Members hired from and working outside of the 13 Western States.

• Local 700 (Motion Picture Editors Guild): Members hired from and working outside of the 13 Western States.

• Local 52: Members hired from or working in New York/New Jersey.

• Local 161: Members hired from or working in New York, New Jersey, or Connecticut.

• Teamsters Local 817: Locations department.

• CWA Parking PAs, Parking Coordinators, and Post Production Coordinators.

Note: The “13 Western States” refers to Washington, Oregon, Montana, Idaho, Wyoming, California, Nevada, Utah, Colorado, Arizona, New Mexico, Hawaii, and Alaska.

What do the MPIPHP rate changes mean for producers and employers?

Producers and signatory employers must budget for this higher hourly rate beginning with any work performed on or after March 22, 2026. It’s critical to account for the increased benefits cost when estimating project expenses, production payroll, and bid packages.

What do the MPIPHP rate changes mean for crew members?

For crew covered by these unions and plans, the increase helps preserve access to comprehensive health coverage and retirement security. While this is an employer-paid benefit, understanding your coverage and the contributions being made on your behalf is vital—especially if you move between projects, employers, or regions.

Staying informed and prepared for the upcoming MPIPHP rate changes

If you’re a producer, line producer, or production accountant:

• Update your production payroll budgets to reflect the new rate

• Communicate with your payroll teams to ensure compliance

• Reach out to your union or the MPIPHP administrative office if you have questions about eligibility or calculations

For union members:

• Monitor your pay stubs and benefits statements to ensure correct contributions

• Consult your union local for clarification if you have any concerns about coverage or credits

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Last Take

The 2026 increase in the “East Coast” MPIPHP hourly rate to $21.047 is a reflection of the industry’s ongoing commitment to fair, robust pension and health benefits for its workforce. By planning ahead, both employers and employees will help ensure continued stability for themselves and the industry at large.

For more information or to review the official announcement and FAQs, visit the MPIPHP website or contact your local union office.

For more labor relations updates, check out our latest labor relations blogs.

This information in this communication is general in nature, and is not intended, nor should it be construed, as legal, accounting, tax or other professional advice rendered by GreenSlate, LLC. The reader should contact his or her attorney, CPA, or tax professional prior to taking any action based upon this information.