Axium Bankruptcy: Important News for AFTRA Members

AFTRA responded quickly to protect the wages and benefits of AFTRA members upon learning that Axium International, a large national payroll company, filed for bankruptcy protection on January 8, 2008.

If you believe that you are owed money that would have been paid through Axium—or if you have Axium checks that are not yet cashed or have had Axium checks returned for non-payment—please contact your AFTRA Local office or email axium@aftra.com.

AFTRA staff is contacting signatory employers that have used Axium’s payroll services to assure payments to members. AFTRA is also making claims with employers for residual and other checks paid through Axium that are no longer valid.

In addition, AFTRA has retained outside counsel to monitor the bankruptcy proceedings and protect the interests of members. AFTRA’s attorneys have already sent a demand that all personal information about AFTRA members be kept confidential to prevent identity theft. AFTRA’s counsel has also reached out to the newly-named bankruptcy trustee and that, based on that contact, AFTRA is advised that the trustee is taking steps to secure the physical facilities and computer system.

Employers are moving payroll services to other companies, such as Entertainment Partners, Cast & Crew, and Media Services. AFTRA is working with these companies to assure full payments to members.