What is a Full Buyout?

A full buyout is a one-time payment from the client to you for your services. Generally, this applies to non-union voice-over work. A full buyout means that you as the service provider are making an agreement with your client that lets them use the audio for however long and for whatever purposes they would like. 

 

Essentially, the recording becomes their property and once you are paid in full for the work, you won't make money from that voice-over recording again. Some talent arrange for residual or royalties to be paid to them annually in the event that the audio is used during particular seasons or for prolonged periods of time - each agreement is different depending on the circumstances and nature of the voice-over work.