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How to split money in a band
By BandManager · 1 min read ·
Money breaks more bands than style arguments. A clear agreement from the start, in writing, avoids most conflicts.
Decide the costs before the split
- Shared costs: rehearsal space, gear, transport, promotion.
- Band fund: a percentage of each payment to reinvest.
- The rest split between members.
Three split models
- Equal shares: simple, and fair if the workload is similar.
- By work: whoever handles booking, mixing or design receives something extra.
- Mixed: equal shares for playing plus a small extra for admin tasks.
Rules to avoid problems
Put it in writing: percentages, who holds the fund and when it is paid out. Keep a shared account or a shared sheet with all income and costs, visible to everyone. And review the agreement whenever the band changes: a member joins, another leaves, activity grows.
When session musicians join
Agree a fee per gig in advance, without touching the band fund. It is simpler for everyone than improvising the split after the show.
Frequently asked questions
Who should hold the band’s money?
One trusted person with the accounts open to everyone, or a joint account. What matters is transparency.
Do I have to declare what I earn from the band?
It depends on your tax situation and how you invoice. Talk to an accountant: here we only offer general guidance.
What if a member leaves the band?
It is best to have planned it in writing: what happens to the gear, the name and any money owed.
Clear accounts for the whole band
BandManager tracks the band’s income and costs so the split is transparent.
Keep reading
- How much to charge for a gigWork out your minimum fee and choose between a guarantee, a door deal or a mix with a worked example. Includes how to negotiate and a template.
- Gig contract checklist: what to includeA checklist for a live performance agreement: parties, date, fee, payment, rider, cancellation and rights. General guidance.
- Band management softwareWhat an independent band needs to get more organized than with spreadsheets and group chats: booking, repertoire, calendar, press kit, finances and fans.
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